Overview
Aiken is the largest city in Aiken County, South Carolina near the neighboring state of Georgia. Retirees who are looking for moderate weather with a bit of southern charm will surely appreciate Aiken.
Climate & Geography
Aiken’s climate is characterized as humid subtropical. The average annual high temperature is in the high 70s and the average annual low temperature is in the low 50s. The average annual precipitation is roughly 50 inches of rainfall.
The larger city of Augusta, Georgia is approximately 20 miles southwest from Aiken. The South Carolina Highway is located to the north of the city. The elevation is 515 feet above sea level and some small bodies of water are scattered throughout the city.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Active adults frequently take a stroll and bike ride through the many outdoor areas around the city. Some of these include Hopelands Gardens, Hitchcock Woods, Aiken State Park, and Boyd Pond Park. There are museums and art centers scattered throughout the city. The Aiken Steeplechase offers horse races during the warmer months.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The median home cost is well below the national median. Living in South Carolina is less expensive than many other states. Residents 65 and older are exempt for a certain amount of qualified retirement income. A majority of disability services are not taxable and Social Security is not taxable.
Health Care
There are two highly ranked medical centers and hospitals located within 20 miles of Aiken. They are University Hospital-Augusta and Augusta University Medical Center. University Hospital-Augusta is regionally ranked and ranked high performing in five adult procedures andconditions. Augusta University Medical Center is ranked high performing in heart failure.