TL;DR: Augusta, Georgia’s second-largest city on the Savannah River, offers historic Summerville, golf-course Forest Hills, and family suburbs like Evans and Grovetown. It is best known for the Masters Tournament, but its real draw is affordable Southern living with a growing medical and cyber economy.
Augusta sits on the Savannah River at the Georgia-South Carolina line, and every April the world’s golf attention turns to Augusta National. The rest of the year it is a working city of hospitals, Fort Eisenhower’s cyber mission, Augusta University, and a revitalizing riverfront. Its neighborhoods range from antebellum streets on ‘The Hill’ to new subdivisions in Columbia County, and the right choice often depends on whether you want historic character, suburban schools, or a short commute to the fort or the medical district.
1. Summerville
Summerville, known locally as ‘The Hill,’ is Augusta’s premier historic neighborhood, with antebellum mansions, tree-lined streets, and an annual Tour of Homes. It sits close to downtown and the medical district, and it draws buyers who love older homes and architecture.
2. Forest Hills
Forest Hills, beside Summerville, is a lush, green neighborhood anchored by the Forest Hills Golf Club, with a mix of classic and modern homes and a tight-knit community. Its proximity to Augusta University makes it popular with faculty, students, and families.
3. West Augusta
West Augusta, along Washington Road and the Savannah River, offers established neighborhoods near shopping, the Masters course, and Interstate 20 access. It is a practical, upscale choice for professionals and families.
4. Downtown Augusta
Downtown Augusta, along Broad Street and the Riverwalk, offers lofts, townhomes, and walkability, with art galleries, restaurants, and the James Brown statue. It suits medical students, young professionals, and anyone who wants restaurants nearby.
5. Evans
Evans, in Columbia County, is the area’s main suburban hub, with newer subdivisions, shopping, parks, and the Columbia County Performing Arts Center. It is the most popular choice for families moving to the Augusta area.
6. Martinez
Martinez, between Augusta and Evans, offers established neighborhoods with a mix of older and updated homes and an easy commute in either direction. It is a steady, family-friendly compromise between city and suburb.
7. Grovetown
Grovetown, west of Augusta near Fort Eisenhower’s main gate, is growing fast with new construction and amenities. It is a top pick for military families and anyone seeking affordability and new homes.
8. North Augusta, South Carolina
North Augusta, just across the Savannah River, offers Riverside Village, the Greeneway trail, and SRP Park, home of the GreenJackets. Many buyers like its schools and lower property taxes on a primary home, and its walkable riverfront.
9. National Hills and Belair
National Hills and Belair, west of Summerville, are upscale, established neighborhoods blending Southern charm with modern convenience, close to shopping and the Masters course. They suit buyers who want an established, affluent setting.
10. South Augusta and Hephzibah
South Augusta and Hephzibah offer the area’s most affordable homes, with more land and a short drive to Fort Eisenhower’s southern gates and Augusta Regional Airport. They suit buyers who want space and value.
What to Know Before You Choose
Augusta’s housing market moves with the Masters in April, when short-term rentals surge, so timing a purchase outside tournament season can help. Check flood zones near the Savannah River and school assignments in Columbia County carefully, and compare Georgia and South Carolina property taxes if you are considering North Augusta. Visit Summerville on foot and drive Evans at school-run time to feel the difference.
Related reading on WagsWoofs: Moving to Greensboro? 10 Neighborhoods to Know
Sources: Best neighborhoods to live in Augusta, GA Moving to Augusta, GA (2026 guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best neighborhood in Augusta for families?
Evans is the most popular family choice, with newer subdivisions, parks, and shopping. Martinez and Grovetown are strong alternatives, especially for military families.
What is the most historic neighborhood in Augusta?
Summerville, known as ‘The Hill,’ is the most historic, with antebellum homes and tree-lined streets close to downtown and the medical district.
Is Augusta affordable?
Augusta is generally affordable, with housing costs below the national average. South Augusta and Hephzibah offer the lowest prices, while Summerville and West Augusta cost more.
What is Augusta known for?
Augusta is known for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, James Brown, its medical district, and Fort Eisenhower’s cyber mission.
Is North Augusta part of Augusta?
No, North Augusta is a separate city across the Savannah River in South Carolina, but it functions as part of the Augusta metro area.
Where do military families live in Augusta?
Many live in Grovetown, near Fort Eisenhower’s main gate, and in Evans and Martinez for schools and newer housing.
What is the best time to visit Augusta?
April brings the Masters and blooming azaleas, while fall offers milder weather and festivals like Arts in the Heart of Augusta in September.
Is Augusta a good place to retire?
Augusta appeals to retirees with its mild winters, hospitals, golf, and lower costs, though summers are hot and humid.
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