Moving to Aiken, SC

About Aiken

Aiken (population about 33,000) is the county seat of Aiken County and the metro's South Carolina anchor, about 20 miles east of Augusta. It is famous as an equestrian center — winter training home for thoroughbreds, with the Aiken Training Track, seasonal steeplechase meets, and miles of riding trails. Hitchcock Woods, a 2,100-acre urban forest, is one of the largest of its kind in America. Downtown Aiken pairs a walkable historic district with USC Aiken, Hopelands Gardens, and a long-running farmers market. Housing ranges from historic intown homes to equestrian estates and family subdivisions.

Home prices in Aiken

The median list in Aiken is $354,000.

Top places in Aiken

• Hitchcock Woods — 2,100-acre urban forest with riding and hiking trails.
• Aiken Training Track — thoroughbred training and steeplechase racing.
• Downtown Aiken historic district — shops, restaurants, and the historic Willcox hotel.
• Hopelands Gardens — free public gardens.
• Aiken County Farmers Market.
• Aiken County Historical Museum (Banksia).
• USC Aiken campus.

Commuting from Aiken

• Approximate drive to downtown Augusta: 30 minutes via I-20 West.
• Approximate drive to Fort Gordon's gates: 30–35 minutes via I-20.
• Approximate drive to the Savannah River Site: 20–25 minutes.

Schools in Aiken

Public schools: Aiken County Public Schools. For enrollment and performance data, see the state report card in Town links below. Confirm school assignment for any address directly with the district.

Aiken FAQs

• What is the housing market like in Aiken, SC?
  The median list in Aiken is $354,000. Median listing price · Sep 2026
• How is the commute from Aiken, SC?
  Approximate drive to downtown Augusta: 30 minutes via I-20 West.
• Which school district serves Aiken, SC?
  Aiken is served by Aiken County Public Schools. See the state report card in Town links, and confirm school assignment for a specific address with the district.

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