Aiken Takes You by Surprise

This enchanting Southern town has intriguing charisma. Various populations make Aiken feel multidimensional, and residents exude community spirit through creativity and volunteerism. The prevailing vibes range from sporting life, outdoor enthusiasm, the arts, community gatherings, and local heritage and history. The charms of Aiken are balanced with the conveniences of big box stores and national chains.

Aiken’s eclectic arts scene showcases local talent in the visual and performing arts, and there’s a lot of it. Several organizations import national talent for an impressive cultural calendar. Aiken has more than its rightful share of independent restaurants, creative festivals, and concert series. Various nonprofits and civic programs work to preserve and showcase Aiken’s storied past and diverse culture. Many churches offer inventive programs and specialized schools.

Premier Sporting Community

Greater Aiken is among the premier equestrian communities in the nation. Various equestrian disciplines and traditions are active throughout the year, representing a major part of the local economy. Equally attractive, nationally noteworthy public and private golf courses abound in Aiken and throughout Aiken County. The city and county boast numerous, highly diverse parks, many with impeccable sports facilities. If this weren’t enough, there are six outstanding natural preserves open to the public in the county. Most notable is the historic 2100-acre Hitchcock Woods in the heart of the city with a network of 70 miles of trails.

Opportunity Meets Growth

The professional landscape is contoured with energy, national security, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and technology. The proximity to Augusta and North Augusta provides convenient access to additional options for employment, healthcare, higher education, the arts, entertainment, and nightlife.

Greater Aiken’s largest employers include companies large and small serving one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s national laboratories and production facilities, an impressive roster of internationally known manufacturers, a growing number of medical and healthcare facilities, a highly recognized state university and technical college, and public and private schools. Technology research facilities of national importance recently opened or broke ground.

These qualities and dynamics have spawned new housing, commercial, and industrial developments in Aiken and surrounding, smaller communities. Those looking at relocating to or within the area enjoy a greater variety of housing options and job opportunities than ever before.