For 101 years, the Aiken Chamber has served the business community
of Aiken and the region. Our association is dedicated to making
Aiken a destination place to live, work and visit.
To celebrate our 101 years of service, we are sharing 101 things we love about
Aiken proving that if you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken, you’re lucky enough.
In the 2018 edition of the Southern Living
Magazine’s “South’s Best” awards,
Aiken took home not one- but four- honors:
South’s Best Small Town
South’s Friendliest Town
Second South’s Best Food Town
Second South’s Best Hotel,
awarded to The Willcox
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101 REASONS
+ MORE
We Love Aiken
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YOU R FAVOR ITE :
Small Towns • Restaurants
Cities • Barbecue Joints • Beaches • Inns
Grocery Stores • Breweries • Hotels
TH E GRUMPY G ARDEN ER’S
GUID E TO HOSTA S
A 1 00-YEAR- OLD
HO USE MAKEOV ER
5 NEW SPINS O N
CH ICKEN SAL AD
SOU TH ERN LI V ING
T H E S O U T H ’ S B E S T
VOL. 53
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YOU R FAVOR ITE :
Small Towns • Restaurants
Cities • Barbecue Joints • Beaches • Inns
Grocery Stores • Breweries • Hotels
LIVE MUSIC
Spend a night out with live
music at any one of Aiken’s
live music venues:
Amp the Alley
Fourth Friday at the Village
The Willcox
Rose Hill in Aiken
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Mayor Rick Osbon
Rick is the third generation owner
of Osbon’s Dry Cleaners.
He brings leadership and practical
experience to making Aiken the
best place to work, live and visit.
Central to Everything
Aiken is conveniently
located to everything —
about a short
3-hour drive to the
mountains and beach.
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Hopelands Gardens
Walk the winding path through
Hopelands Gardens and enjoy the
romantic landscape of historic oaks,
cedars, and magnolia trees.
South Boundary
The stunning oaks arching over South
Boundary Avenue are recognized as
one of the prettiest avenues in the
south, according to USA Today’s Travel
Experience South. Shown on previous page.
Arboretum Trail
The variety of trees in downtown Aiken
is so diverse that a 4-mile wide area
has been designated as an Arboretum.
Using a cell phone, you can access an
interactive self-guided tour providing
facts about each tree.
Hitchcock Woods
The largest urban forest in the nation,
Hitchcock Woods attracts equestrians,
hikers, dog walkers, and runners to
65 miles of sandy trails through the
stunning longleaf pine forest.
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Equestrian Culture
Perfectly situated in a mild southern
climate, Aiken is the perfect host for
year-round equestrian events. Enjoy
polo tournaments in the spring and
fall played on historic Whitney Field,
triple-crown equestrian events and
dressage riding tournaments.
Polo
The Aiken polo experience is truly
exceptional. The surrounding
landscape holds 40 professional polo
fi elds with 9 registered polo clubs
in Aiken.
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Health Care
Acute care, behavioral health, preventive medicine
and wellness programs – from Aiken to Augusta,
residents have access to superior health care.
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Cost of Living
The Aiken-Augusta area cost of living is 85%,
15% below the national average.
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The Sun Shines More in Aiken
Aiken enjoys on average over 216 sunny days every year.
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Housing is A ordable
Find the home of your dreams for 36% less
than the national average.
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AIKEN 101
British Royalty Comes to Aiken
In September 2018, England’s Prince
Edward, the Earl of Wessex, came to
the Aiken Tennis Club as part of his
Real Tennis Tour and to promote the
Duke of Edinburgh’s foundation
and play a game.
Kevin Kisner
A professional golfer on the PGA Tour,
Kisner, who was born and raised in
Aiken, is married and raising his young
family here. The Kevin & Brittany
Kisner Foundation is active in
creating a positive environment for
children to grow, learn and play.
Dekoda Watson
Being a linebacker in the National
Football League since 2010, has
allowed this hometown star athlete
to give back to others and make a
di erence in the Aiken community.
Local students enjoy spending time
with Watson at the many Koda’s Kids
Foundation events.
The Legacy of the Vampire
Dacre Stoker, the great-grand nephew
of Bram Stoker, the Irish author of the
legendary original Dracula, calls Aiken
home. Dacre co-authored Dracula: The
Un-dead, reviving his family’s place in
the vampire legacy.
The Department of Energy:
Savannah River Site employs 11,200
in a variety of positions including
engineering, technical services,
and liquid waste management.
Bridgestone, the international
leader in tire and rubber
manufacturing, has two plants
in the Aiken area employing
1,400 local residents.
Kimberly-Clark Corp, recognized
by Forbes as one of America’s best
large employers in 2018, employs
1,100 in the Aiken-area making
consumer paper products.
Shaw Industries, a subsidiary
of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., is the
world’s largest carpet manufacturer.
Shaw operates plant 78 in Aiken,
employing 600.
AGY manufactures fi berglass
insulation and circuit boards
and employs 731.
Emerson ASCO LP fl uid
automation solutions include over
50,000 solenoid and pneumatic
valves, cylinders and actuators,
air preparation equipment +
accessories, and employs 427.
MANUFACTURING IS THRIVING IN AIKEN (#18 - #23)
More than 100 manufacturing companies are located in Aiken. These companies are responsible
for 1,000’s of jobs in Aiken and the region. Aiken’s top manufacturing employers are below:
VISIT AIKENCHAMBER.NET FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF MANUFACTURERS AND LARGE EMPLOYERS.
Citizens Park: Aiken’s premier athletic complex has 15 ball fi elds
and 8 batting cages. The complex is host to baseball, softball
and soccer leagues and tournaments throughout the year.
It also has playgrounds and walking trails.
Aiken Tennis Club: The Aiken Tennis Club was founded in 1898
by William C. Whitney, of the prominent Whitney family. The
club was constructed on Newberry Street in 1902 and is listed
on the National Register of Historic places. The Aiken Tennis
Club is internationally renowned and attracts famous players,
world champions, and distinguished supporters. See #29.
Pickleball: Grab your paddle and head to any one of the
20 public pickleball courts in Aiken. Or better yet, call the
Pickledillys and join a team.
H. Odell Weeks Activity Center: You can do most anything
here. From business meetings to personal parties, basketball
to disc golf, the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center is the perfect
location for any event or sport.
Aiken State Park: Just 15 minutes down Highway 302,
Aiken State Park o ers picnic areas, canoing, hiking and
camping. Enjoy a getaway without having to go away.
CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS
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SPORTS + RECREATION GALORE
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AIKEN 101
Rye Patch
Curious where these Winter Colonists
stabled their horses? Visit the
Rye Patch. Statues of the horses
can be found in their stables along
with information on the horses
and their owners.
Aiken County Historic Museum
Housed in the winter cottage once
owned by Richard Howe, owner of
the International Harvester Co., the
museum holds exhibits about the area
from prehistoric times to modern day.
On the site you can tour Aiken’s oldest
surviving school house and log cabin.
The Winter Colony
Aiken gained fame in the late 19th
century as a winter resort for the
country’s wealthy industrial elite. It didn’t
take long for Aiken to become a winter
home for many famous and notable
people, known as Winter Colonists.
Visitors Center and Train Museum
Explore our railroad museum
showcasing interactive exhibits on
the 1880-1954 passenger line and
9 dioramas illustrating life in 1916.
Savannah River Site Museum
The SRS museum displays the history of
the construction of the Savannah River
Site. The construction project helped
triple the size of the city, drawing
everyone from construction workers
to PhD holders. One construction
worker, Jim Nabors, better known as
Gomer Pyle, came to Aiken and made
his entertainment debut in the clubs
of Aiken and Augusta. Many of the
munchkins from the Wizard of Oz
came to Aiken during the construction
of the Savannah River Site. They were
instrumental as welders, fi tting pipes
where average men couldn’t fi t.
Anshu Asian Café
Apizza di Napoli
Highland Park Grille
Linda’s Bistro
Malia’s Restaurant
Prime Steakhouse
Takosushi
The Village Café
Whiskey Alley Spirits & Tapas
The Whitney Restaurant & Bar
The Willcox
LOCAL CUISINES (#39-#49)
From innovative cuisine to old-time favorites,
more than 30 local restaurateurs serve-up artisan
food for an unforgettable dining experience.
Below are just a few of the local favorites:
A RICH PAST + PRESENT (#33-37)
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Farmer’s Market
The oldest continuous
farmers market in SC, is
open every Saturday
year-round, and also on
Tuesdays and Thursdays
during the summer.
AIKEN 101
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TOP RATED HIGHER EDUCATION
USC Aiken
USC Aiken is once
again ranked as the
#1 Regional Public
College in the South
by U.S. News and
World Report.
Aiken Tech
Aiken Tech o ers
a transformative
2-year education to
prepare students
for the modern
workforce.
Limestone College
Limestone College
has been a pioneer
in accessible
education since
1845.
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Fashion Sense
Aiken’s clothiers carry chic clothing,
accessories, jewelry and limited collections
of unique boutique fashion.
Relax, Refresh and Rejuvenate
If you’re looking for a massage, a facial,
hot stone, or just peace in the sauna,
turn your afternoon into a mini-vacation
at any Aiken spa.
The People of Aiken
Simply neighborly, they’ll greet you with
“Hey!” and a smile. The citizens of Aiken
are a perfect blend of small-town charm
and cosmopolitan sophistication.
The Center for African American History, Art and Culture
The Center’s historical preservation and interactive education
celebrates the cultural legacy of the African American
Communities in Aiken County and the contribution of African
Americans in South Carolina and the United States. Located in
the historic Immanuel Institute to educate African Americans,
built in 1881 by Rev. W. R. Coles, a Presbyterian missionary,
the Center hosts lecture series, art shows, traveling exhibits,
special events, and concert series.
Boyd Pond
Boyd Pond is a 30-acre fi shing pond surrounded
by wooded parkland. The park has boat ramps,
fi shing, self-guided bird watching, and geocaching.
The dense woods provide a refreshing canopy for
summer outdoor fun at any of the park’s baseball
fi elds, soccer fi elds, hiking and biking trails.
Palmetto Shooting Complex
Enjoy the premier shooting destination in the
Southeast, which houses sporting clays and trap
and skeet fi elds. The Palmetto Shooting Complex
is part of the National Wild Turkey Federation
(NWTF) and o ers member, youth, collegiate
and military discounts.
Virginia Acres and Carolina Bay
Great park for all ages and all interests! This park
boasts trails for walking, running and rollerblading.
It has basketball, tennis, soccer, racquetball, disc golf,
climbing walls, canoing, picnic areas, playgrounds
and more. If it’s outdoor and fun, it’s at Virginia Acres
and Carolina Bay.
The Aiken Peach
The fi rst peach trees were planted in Aiken
in 1857 by William Gregg. He shipped his
juicy fruit across the country to demonstrate
the superior farming achievable in South
Carolina. Today, South Carolina is the
largest peach producer in the southeast
most of which come from the orchards of
Aiken, Edgefi eld and Saluda counties.
U-Pick Herb n Blueberry Farm
Enjoy the simple pleasure of a sunny
country day and the juiciest berries around.
Picking season begins mid-May and lasts
through July, weather permitting.
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AIKEN 101
FESTIVALS + EVENTS
Art, antiques, food, music and equine, Aiken is host to festivals all year-long for every
interest and enjoyment. Many of these events are free, or go to support a good cause.
Find a reason to celebrate and enjoy the many festivals happening in Aiken.
Antiques in the Heart of Aiken
February 1-3
Mardi Gras
February 9
Battle of Aiken
February 22-24
Agamacon
March 2-3
Joye in Aiken
March 8-15
Aiken’s Makin’
September 6 - 7
Oktoberfest
September 21
Mane and Shell
October 3
Chocolate Festival
October 5
Western Carolina
State Fair
October 18-27
Aiken Fall Steeplechase
TBD
Applefest
November 2
Katydid Combined
Driving Event
October 21 - November 3
FALL (#76-83) WINTER (#84-88)
SPRING + SUMMER (#62-75)
Harness Races: March 9
Aiken Trials: March 16
Aiken Spring Steeplechase: March 23
Pacers and Polo: March 30
Aiken Horse Show: March 29-31
Hopelands Gardens Concert Series
Every Monday Night April-June
Horses n’ Courses
April 2
Aiken Spring Classic Masters: April 17-21
Aiken Spring Classic Finale: April 24-28
Strawberry Festival: April 27
Aiken Charity Horse Show: May 1-12
Aiken Bluegrass Festival: May 10-11
Hops N’ Hogs: May 17
SC Equestrian Special Olympics: May 18-19
AIKEN 101
Aiken Symphony
“Home for the Holidays”
Hoofbeats and
Christmas Carols Parade
Bloodies & Bagels and
Blessing of the Hounds
One Table
Downtown Christmas
Tree Lighting
Madrigal Feast
Festival of Trees at the Depot
Night of 1,000 Lights
Aiken Jaycees Christmas Parade
Ugly Sweater Crawl Downtown
8th Annual Santa
at the Depot
Christmas in Hopelands
Stroll through Hopelands Gardens,
taking in the sights and sounds of
the holiday season, while sipping
hot cocoa or apple cider. This
enchanting walk-through exhibit
features over two miles of lighted
pathways and illuminated displays.
Over 100,000 twinkling lights in
the peaceful setting of Hopelands
Gardens are a must-see during the
holiday season. The Thoroughbred
Racing Hall of Fame, The
Dollhouse, Rye Patch and the
Rye Patch Stables are open and
decorated for visitors to enjoy.
CHRISTMAS IS MAGICAL IN AIKEN
There is nothing like experiencing the season of lights in the beauty of Aiken.
Events throughout November and December celebrate the fun, the elegance, and the
meaning of Christmas. Come one; come all to take part in a magical Aiken Christmas.
Learn more about these events at
WWW.AIKENISMAGICAL.COM
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AIKEN 101
For a century, the Aiken Chamber of Commerce has served the
business interests of Aiken and the region, and since 1998 it has
done so from its oce building at 121 Richland Avenue East.
The building has served the needs of the organization and has been a front
door welcoming members and visitors to Aiken for 20 years, but on the
centennial anniversary of the organization, the Chamber’s board of directors
decided it was time to refresh the interior of the building and prepare it for
the next 20 years. This became known as the Centennial Project.
The Project began by engaging a diverse group of stakeholders in focus
groups to align the building’s form and function with the needs of future
Chamber members and the community. This work was completed by
Community Design Solutions and presented to the Chamber’s board of
directors in the summer of 2016 and became a part of the Chamber’s
program of work for 2017.
How to create an updated yet classic space that would not date itself quickly
was one goal. Another goal was making the space more open and inviting for
conducting business and hosting meetings. It was also determined that no
exterior changes were needed.
To accomplish these goals, the Chamber reached out to interior designers in
the membership. Assuming the Chamber would need to select one designer
over another, it was a pleasant surprise when Material Things owner, Katy
Lipscomb, and Nandina Home and Design owners Sue Shannon and Susan
Victor decided to collaborate with one another on the project.
J.E. Stewart Builders, Inc. was selected to handle the structural modifications
needed inside, and a complete plan was in place by the summer of 2017.
Work began in September and The Centennial Project, the hallmark piece of
the Chamber’s centennial year, was unveiled in January 2018.
The interior of the building is now aligned with the design and
function needed for future Chamber members. The feel is stylish,
classic and welcoming.
Refreing for the Future
AIKEN’S FRONT DOOR
101
THE AIKEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
RIGHT
A new conversation area with embroidered pillows reminding guests
to “Shop Aiken” is beside the custom display showcasing member
information. The tagline, “It’s a great day for business in Aiken, South
Carolina” is featured on the wall. Seven television screens are located
throughout the area to feature member information.
AIKEN 101
The colorful public art piece, “Interconnected,” a representation of the Chamber’s work to
connect the community to business, is easily seen outside. The piece is the inspiration for
the Chamber’s logo which carries through the new interior on the large glass barn doors.
Guests are welcomed through
new front doors into an open
lobby with a mixture of textures
and a pleasing clean aesthetic.
Warm brass, updated millwork
and new lighting add to the
main gathering area.
AIKEN 101
AIKEN IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR
ALL AGES AND FOR ALL SEASONS.
It off ers distinctiveness o en unheard of in today’s world, where
aff ordable housing, award-winning schools, diverse recreational
opportunities and a progressive approach to business go
hand-in-hand to off er something for almost every lifestyle.
One visit to this charming city and you will discover why people
who live here celebrate Aiken every day – because it is the perfect place
to operate a business, raise a family, meet young professionals
and enjoy retirement.
Quality of Life
QUALITY OF LIFE
If you are looking for a place that off ers all the amenities you’ll ever need, a place that off ers a
perfect balance between the charm and grace of yesterday and the promise of tomorrow, you will
fi nd it in Aiken, South Carolina. With its rich heritage, impeccable beauty, cosmopolitan fl air, and
unparalleled quality of life, Aiken is the ideal place to come and spend a day, a week or a lifetime.
An exceptional business
environment located in a small, but
globally cosmopolitan, town
An active, modern lifestyle
entrenched in charm and history
A contemporary, progressive
college and university with a small
town appeal
Technically advanced health care
services delivered with a friendly
hometown feel
Modern vehicles sharing unpaved
streets with riders on horseback
Cozy cottages and single-family
homes nestled among grand,
historic estates
A beautiful, thriving downtown
with retail shops and restaurants
complemented by national
chains and franchises throughout
the community
STRONG COMMUNITY
One of Aiken’s greatest assets is its
people — individuals from diverse
backgrounds who are dedicated to the
economic and overall well-being of the
community. By working together, public
and private entities have successfully
implemented numerous programs that
have improved infrastructure, attracted
business, saved money, supported health
care and education, and ultimately, created
a thriving, vibrant community.
IDEAL LOCATION
Aiken is ideally located and accessible
to major interstates and airports. Aiken’s
residents have the best of both worlds —
they can enjoy big city life without having to
live in a large metropolitan area.
HISTORY + CULTURE
Aiken sits in the middle of the South
Carolina National Heritage Corridor —
one of several corridors in the United
States. The corridor was designed to
encourage people to get o the interstates
and onto the back roads of South Carolina
MILD CLIMATE
The climate is another plus; Aiken’s residents
can enjoy the change of seasons without
prolonged severe weather.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Where else can you fi nd unique combinations that mesh so incredibly well?
streets with riders on horseback
Cozy cottages and single-family
homes nestled among grand,
historic estates
the community
Aiken provides a lifestyle
that suits almost any taste -
from growing families to the
empty nesters and retirees.
Arts + Culture
e Aiken community is passionate about art – all kinds of art – and
residents and visitors alike support the arts with an enthusiasm that
could rival most any large city. Visual and performing arts thrive
year round and touch many cultures and lifestyles, while showcasing
local, national and international talent.
Participation in the arts is highly encouraged in the area through art
education and enrichment classes. Both visual and performing arts
classes are available and give all citizens the opportunity to learn a
new skill or enhance an existing one.
ARTS + CULTURE
Aiken Center for the Arts
Local, as well as international and national, artist shows
and receptions flourish throughout the year and oer a
unique mix of art media. Classes for children and adults
are taught daily.
Aiken Choral Society
A community chorus dedicated to providing the best
singing experience to interested and talented singers
throughout the Aiken area. The group’s repertoire is
wide and includes celebrating the best in composition
from early music to hit movie themes.
Aiken Civic Ballet
South Carolina’s longest continuously operating dance
company has been in existence for over 48 years. Under
the artistic direction of Diane Toole Miller, the company
produces original ballets and contemporary dance works.
Aiken Community Playhouse
Oering seven main stage productions each season,
several Black Box events, Coeehouse Productions,
workshops and a Youth Wing Program, shows range
from drama to comedy and musicals.
Aiken Performing Arts Group (APAG)
Quality professional artists perform in Aiken – including
classical, jazz, brass, chamber, bluegrass, big band,
Broadway and ethnic music performed by individual
vocalists and instrumentalists, bands and full orchestras-
plus dance, comedy, satire and variety programs.
Aiken Symphony Guild
Annually, the Guild is the presenter of the Youth
Concerts for all fifth-grade students in Aiken and
Edgefield counties and the Concerto Competition
for students eighteen years of age and younger.
Aiken Symphony Orchestra
The ASO provides artistic leadership to the community
through the presentation of symphonic music that
educates, entertains and enriches the human spirit, in
addition to a program of classical and pops concerts.
The Etherredge Center for the Fine and Performing Arts
Located on the campus of the University of South
Carolina Aiken, the Center hosts many cultural
events open to the community, including the annual
Cultural Series featuring traveling theater companies
and performers.
Hopelands Gardens Summer Concert Series
Various entertainment including bands, ballet, bluegrass
and clogging perform on Monday evenings from April
through July at the Windam Performing Arts Stage at
Hopelands Gardens.
Joye in Aiken
The Joye in Aiken Festival brings the world’s best young
artists from the Juilliard School and beyond to Aiken for
public performances, chamber concerts, master classes
and outreach programs in area schools.
Southern City Institute
The Southern City Film Festival seeks to create venues
in the community to encourage education, artistic
expression and acknowledge emerging filmmakers from
around the world and within the community.
USCA Convocation Center
One of the region’s premier entertainment facilities,
it features everything from internationally known
music stars to comedians, musicals and even
professional bull riding.
Diverse, vibrant and growing, the Aiken Art Scene is alive.
ARTS + CULTURE
AIKEN’S ARTS + CULTURAL EVENTS + FACILITIES
Health Care is a top priority in Aiken and Aiken County. Health care
providers and citizens alike recognize the value of a healthy community.
With highly trained professionals who are dedicated to the wellness of
the entire person — from acute care to behavioral health, preventive
medicine and wellness programs — the Aiken area o ers superior
health care services covering a broad spectrum of specialties.
Health Care
The vision of Aiken Regional Medical Centers is to
meet the healthcare needs and exceed the expectations
of the community. Better health leads to a better life.
A comprehensive range of
health care services can be found
in Aiken County, including:
Home Health
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Chiropractic Care
Hospice Care
Sports Medicine
Behavioral Health
Exercise Programs
Special Interest Programs
Support Groups
Educational Programs
Comprehensive Care Facilities
Adult Day Services
Assisted-Living Communities
HEALTH CARE
UNIVERSITY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
University Primary Care - Silver Blu
1021 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken, SC
Services include the diagnosis and management of simple and
chronic health problems as well as management of all acute,
chronic, simple and complex medical issues of adults.
University Prompt Care - Silver Blu & Richland Avenue
1021 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken : : 3515 Richland Ave. West, Aiken
O ers walk-in appointments for non-life-threatening conditions
University Hospital in Augusta
1350 Walton Way, Augusta, GA
Serves 25 counties in Georgia and South Carolina with
581-beds at their not-for-profi t community hospital
AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SYSTEM
Our region’s Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma centers:
Augusta University Medical Center
1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA
A teaching- and research-based hospital with 478 beds
Children’s Hospital of Georgia
1446 Harper Street, Augusta, GA
Pediatric hospital with 154 beds
A variety of centers and units such as the Sports
Medicine Center and the Georgia Cancer Center
AIKEN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTERS (ARMC)
302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC
ARMC’s culture of being “dedicated to serve” resonates with the
Aiken Community. With most physicians and sta living and working
in this community, their commitment to excellence and compassion
are evident at every encounter. More than 150 physicians
representing 40-plus specialties serve in our 273-bed hospital.
Services + Facilities
24-Hour Emergency
Department
Computerized Tomography
Scanning
Same-Day Outpatient Surgery
Dialysis Treatments
Pain Management
Sleep Evaluation Center
Women’s LifeCare Center
Diabetes and Nutrition
Teaching Center
Aurora Pavilion
Behavioral Health Services
Cardiovascular Institute
of Carolina
Cancer Care Institute
of Carolina
Inpatient Rehabilitation Center
Women Enlightened
for Better Health (We)
Surgery Center
MILITARY
803.641.5000
aikenregional.com
A variety of centers and units such as the Sports
Medicine Center and the Georgia Cancer Center
HEALTH CARE
The Charlie Norwood VA Medical
Center o ers a variety of health
services to meet the needs of our
nation’s Veterans:
Audiology and Speech Pathology
Dental Services
Mental Health
Pharmacy
Primary Care
Rehabilitation
Specialty Care including all surgical
specialties as well as neurology,
radiation, oncology and audiology
The VA Outpatient Clinic in Aiken
provides primary care and mental
health services for Veterans.
The Eisenhower Army Medical
Center at Fort Gordon serves
active-duty personnel and their
benefi ciaries.
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Housing: 64
Grocery: 94
Utilities: 95
Transportation: 93
Health Care: 86
Second Quarter 2018
Co of Living
Property Taxes
Comparison To Nearby Cities
ASHEVILLE, NC: 96.1
ATLANTA, GA: 99.6
CHARLESTON, SC: 102.5
GREENVILLE, SC: 96.2
HILTON HEAD, SC: 108.2
COST OF LIVING
The Cost of Living Index in the Aiken-Augusta area
85
15% BELOW THE NATIONAL AVERAGE
Source: Council for Community and Economic Research.
This is the lowest composite index in
the 28 Metropolitan Statistical Areas
(MSAs), measured in Georgia,
North Carolina and South Carolina,
and is the 24th lowest of the 273 areas
measured across the nation.
36% lower than
the national
average
Average property taxes are $733.96
CONTACT THE AIKEN
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
121 Richland Avenue East
Aiken, SC 29801
Main Line: 803.641.1111
www.AikenChamber.net
PUBLISHER
Aiken Chamber of Commerce
PHOTOGRAPHY
A. P. Gouge Photography • Brent Cline
Mark Hudson • Jennifer Morton
