Augusta, Georgia is located along the Savannah River in the Central Savannah River Area of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, Augusta had a population of 197,166, making it the second most populous city in Georgia after Atlanta.
Demographics
According to the most recent census data, Augusta’s population is predominantly African American, making up 54.7% of residents. Whites account for 38.1% of the population. Hispanics and Latinos of any race make up 8.1% of residents. Other races represented include Asian at 2.7%, Native American at 0.3%, Pacific Islander at 0.1%, and two or more races at 2.3%.
The median age in Augusta is 34.5 years old. 23.2% of the population is under 18 years old, while 13.5% is aged 65 and older. There is a small gender disparity among residents, with women making up 52.1% of the population and men making up 47.9%.
Over the past 10 years from 2010 to 2020, Augusta’s population grew by 2.2%. While modest, this rate of growth outpaced the national average of 1.7% over the same period. Population projections estimate the city will continue growing steadily over the next couple decades.
Economy and Major Employers
Augusta has a diverse economy with major industries including healthcare, defense, manufacturing, tourism, and services. Some of the top employers in Augusta are:
- Augusta-Richmond County municipal government – consolidated city-county government providing public services
- Augusta University Health System – healthcare network employing over 10,000 people
- Fort Gordon – U.S. Army cyber center and NSA field office
- Procter & Gamble – consumer goods manufacturing facility
- Club Car – golf carts and utility vehicle manufacturer
The finance and insurance sector accounts for 9% of Augusta’s jobs. Major finance companies with offices in Augusta include TaxSlayer, BB&T, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America. The food services and retail trade industries employ 14% and 11% of Augusta’s workforce respectively. Top retailers include Costco, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Jaguar.
Landmarks
Augusta is home to many notable landmarks that highlight its history and culture:
- Augusta National Golf Club – Famed course that hosts the Masters Tournament each year
- Augusta Canal and Discovery Center – Historic industrial canal with visitor center
- Morris Museum of Art – Oldest art museum in the Southern U.S.
- Augusta Mural Trail – Public artwork initiative with over 50 murals
- Sacred Heart Cultural Center – Church with famous stained glass windows
Outdoor attractions in Augusta include the Augusta Riverwalk, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, and Diamond Lakes Regional Park. Popular annual events include the Augusta Boat Show, Arts in the Heart festival, and the Westobou Festival.
Sports
Golf is a major part of Augusta’s identity and economy. As mentioned, Augusta National Golf Club hosts golf’s prestigious Masters Tournament every spring. The club is open exclusively to members and their guests.
Disc golf is also popular in Augusta, which touts one of the nation’s first disc golf courses at Fleming Park. Augusta currently has seven disc golf courses total.
For spectator sports, Augusta is home to the Augusta GreenJackets minor league baseball team. The GreenJackets compete in the Single-A East League as an affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. They play their home games downtown at SRP Park along the riverfront.
You can keep up with local happenings in Augusta by following the city’s official Facebook page. The page shares community news, local events, city services updates, job openings, and more.
Conclusion
With its distinctive setting along the Savannah River, Augusta has developed into a hub for healthcare, business, recreation, and culture. The city strikes a balance between preserving its history while continuing to grow and progress. Augusta’s diverse population, employers, attractions, and organizations give the city its unique southern character.