03 Dec Columbia County, GA: Why So Many Families Are Moving Here
With road widening projects and property development at seemingly every turn, there’s no doubt that Columbia County, GA is growing by leaps and bounds. In fact, Columbia County is the 9th fastest-growing county in Georgia and the 75th fastest growing county in the United States! From Evans to Martinez, Harlem to Appling, the growth shows no sign of slowing. Sure, this area is generally a great place to live, but the substantial growth as of late had us wondering: what is it exactly which draws such an influx of homeowners to the CSRA, particularly in Columbia County? Turns out, it isn’t one thing, but rather a combination of factors creating a perfect recipe for new residents looking to call this place Home. Here are some of the most common ones:
School System
One thing a county always prides itself on is the success of its public-school system, and Columbia County is no exception! When residents are asked what the quality of life is like, one of the first mentions will inevitably be the county’s top-notch schools. From elementary grades up through high school, Columbia County boasts a legion of well-trained teachers and administrators who help deliver educational results well above the State of Georgia averages. Columbia County puts emphasis on exceeding expectations, which an important standard to young couples looking to start families, as well as established families who move into the area with school-aged children.
Cost of Living
Overall, the cost of living in Columbia County is lower than the national average. Residents who move to the area from other markets in the country are often pleasantly surprised at how far their money can go. The affordability of housing is especially attractive for those who’ve been accustomed to renting homes and are now able to begin investing in real estate and owning their own homes. This lower cost of living is also reflected in the utilities, transportation, and average healthcare costs in Columbia County.
Recreation
When it comes to recreational activities for free time, Columbia County has no shortage of fun things to dive into. Thurmond Lake, affectionately referred to by locals as “Clarks Hill,” has 111.2-mile area for any fishing or water-sports adventurers. The Evans Towne Center Park and Lady A Pavilion includes regular events, concerts and festivals for the community to attend on their open lawn and amphitheater and has become a favorite spot for locals. By November 2020, an 84,000-square-foot performing arts facility will be unveiled in downtown Evans that will be a great place for families to come for leisure, shows and events.
Central Location
When it comes to being away from the hustle & bustle of city life but still close enough to the action, you simply can’t beat living in Columbia County. The central location makes for a quick day trip to nearby beaches, mountains, metropolitan cities and historic districts. Whether you want to take a beach trip to Hilton Head or Tybee Island, Columbia County is less than a three-hour drive to those sandy shores. Maybe you want a weekend getaway in the mountains of Helen, Ga.? You can be breathing that crisp mountain air in less than three hours. If you’re in need of some major retail therapy and shopping excursion, Atlanta is only a two-hour drive away. No matter what travel you prefer, Columbia County is easily at the center of it all and is a terrific home base in the southeast region.
Jobs
When it comes to choosing a place to live, having plenty of solid options for secure employment is at the top of everyone’s must-have list. Of Columbia County’s population of 143,723, there are 63,139 employees. In October of 2019, the employment rate grew by 3.3 percent. Jobs are constantly becoming readily available in the Columbia County area. With Richmond County close by, commutes for employees from Columbia to Richmond are easy and frequent. The Greater Augusta Region/Fort Gordon Cyber District is also creating opportunities in cyber security jobs for individuals in the area. Between Fort Gordon, hospitals, retail and office jobs, the evolving cyber program and the countless other employment opportunities, residents in Columbia County are easily able to find jobs to provide for themselves and their families.
A Great Place to Live
With the abundance of activities and opportunities, the growth in Columbia County isn’t poised to slow down anytime soon. Exceptional school systems, multiple recreational events, a convenient location and job opportunities help make Columbia County truly one of the greatest places to live. So much so, we hardly mind all the regularly widening roads and changing traffic patterns! Columbia County is the place that just keeps on growing and we’re excited to be part of it. Want to learn more about how you can call Columbia County home – with a home of your very own? Contact us today and let’s talk about B.E.C. Custom Homes can make it happen for you!