Introduction to Aiken County, South Carolina
Aiken County is located in western South Carolina, bordering the Savannah River and Georgia to the west. Established in 1871, Aiken County has a rich history rooted in agriculture, the equestrian industry, and its proximity to the Savannah River Site, a significant nuclear facility. The county is known for its blend of Southern charm, historical significance, and vibrant industries, making it one of the state’s most dynamic regions. With a population of approximately 170,000, Aiken County has grown steadily over the years while preserving its small-town atmosphere.
Aiken County enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive location for outdoor activities year-round. The county is home to several historical landmarks, natural attractions, and modern amenities.
- County Seat: Aiken
- Number of Cities and Towns: 9
- Major School Districts: Aiken County Public School District
Aiken
City Overview
Aiken is the county seat of Aiken County, located in the southwestern part of the county, near the Georgia border. Founded in 1835 as a railroad town, Aiken quickly became a destination for wealthy Northerners seeking a warm winter retreat. Today, Aiken is known for its equestrian culture, historic charm, and vibrant downtown area. The city is home to many horse-related events, including steeplechase races and polo matches, earning it the nickname “The Horse Capital of the South.”
Aiken experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers. Major landmarks include Hopelands Gardens, a beautiful public garden in the heart of the city, and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame. The city’s downtown area is known for its historic buildings, boutique shops, and Southern hospitality.
City Facts
- Population: 30,869 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 900 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 29801, 29803
- Road Network: U.S. Route 1, U.S. Route 78, State Route 19
- Nearest Airports: Augusta Regional Airport (GA), Columbia Metropolitan Airport
- Libraries: Aiken County Public Library
- Hospitals: Aiken Regional Medical Centers
Major Schools
Aiken is served by the Aiken County Public School District. Aiken High School (grades 9-12) has an enrollment of approximately 1,400 students, offering a wide range of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career and technical education. The city is also home to Schofield Middle School, which serves around 600 students in grades 6-8, and Aiken Elementary School, serving grades K-5 with about 500 students. In addition to public schools, Aiken has several private schools, including Mead Hall Episcopal School, which provides a college preparatory curriculum for K-12 students.
North Augusta
City Overview
North Augusta is a growing city located in the western part of Aiken County, along the Savannah River, directly across from Augusta, Georgia. Founded in 1906, North Augusta has become a popular residential community due to its proximity to Augusta and its suburban lifestyle. The city has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with new developments, recreational facilities, and shopping centers attracting families and businesses alike.
North Augusta enjoys a warm climate, typical of the South Carolina Midlands, with hot summers and mild winters. The city is home to major landmarks like the SRP Park, which hosts minor league baseball games, and the North Augusta Greeneway, a popular trail system for walking and biking along the river.
City Facts
- Population: 23,845 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 1,100 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 29841, 29860
- Road Network: Interstate 20, U.S. Route 1, U.S. Route 25
- Nearest Airports: Augusta Regional Airport (GA), Columbia Metropolitan Airport
- Libraries: North Augusta Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Augusta, GA (University Hospital)
Major Schools
North Augusta is part of the Aiken County Public School District. North Augusta High School serves grades 9-12 with an enrollment of about 1,500 students, offering AP courses and a range of extracurricular activities such as athletics and arts programs. Paul Knox Middle School serves approximately 800 students in grades 6-8, and North Augusta Elementary School serves about 550 students in grades K-5. The district emphasizes academic success and offers numerous programs designed to support students’ college and career readiness.
Wagener
City Overview
Wagener is a small town located in the eastern part of Aiken County. Founded in 1887, Wagener developed as a railroad town and has retained its rural charm over the years. Agriculture remains a significant part of the local economy, with many farms and small businesses supporting the town’s economy. While Wagener is a quiet, close-knit community, it offers a peaceful lifestyle for its residents.
Wagener experiences warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal location for farming and outdoor activities. Landmarks in Wagener include the Wagener Museum, which highlights the town’s history and contributions to Aiken County’s agricultural heritage, and the town’s community center, which hosts local events.
City Facts
- Population: 716 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 250 people per square mile
- ZIP Code: 29164
- Road Network: State Route 39, State Route 302
- Nearest Airports: Columbia Metropolitan Airport
- Libraries: Wagener Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Aiken (Aiken Regional Medical Centers)
Major Schools
Wagener is part of the Aiken County Public School District. The town is served by Wagener-Salley High School (grades 9-12), which enrolls around 300 students. The school offers academic programs focused on college preparation and vocational training. A.L. Corbett Middle School serves students in grades 6-8, and Busbee Elementary School serves grades K-5. Both the middle and elementary schools enroll approximately 250 students each, with a focus on personalized education and community involvement.
Burnettown
City Overview
Burnettown is a small town located in the western part of Aiken County, near the city of North Augusta. The town was established in the 1940s as a residential community and has gradually expanded over the years. Burnettown is part of the larger Augusta metropolitan area and benefits from its proximity to the economic and recreational opportunities of both North Augusta and Augusta, Georgia.
Burnettown enjoys a mild climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The town is home to Langley Pond Park, which is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and hiking. The park also hosts rowing competitions and other community events throughout the year.
City Facts
- Population: 2,966 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 600 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 29851
- Road Network: U.S. Route 1, State Route 421
- Nearest Airports: Augusta Regional Airport (GA)
- Libraries: Burnettown Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Augusta, GA (University Hospital)
Major Schools
Burnettown is served by the Aiken County Public School District. Students in Burnettown attend Midland Valley High School, which serves grades 9-12 with an enrollment of about 1,200 students. Midland Valley High School offers a range of academic programs, including AP courses and vocational training. The town is also served by Leavelle McCampbell Middle School and Jefferson Elementary School, which have enrollments of around 600 and 500 students, respectively. The schools focus on preparing students for academic success and personal growth through a variety of educational and extracurricular programs.
Jackson
City Overview
Jackson is a small town located in the southwestern part of Aiken County, near the Savannah River. Established in the late 19th century, Jackson grew as a mill town and later became a residential community for workers at the nearby Savannah River Site. Today, Jackson retains its small-town atmosphere, with many residents commuting to work in nearby Aiken or Augusta.
Jackson’s climate is warm and humid in the summer, with mild winters. The town is close to the Savannah River, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The town’s historical landmarks include the Savannah River Site, which played a critical role in the development of the U.S. nuclear weapons program during the Cold War.
City Facts
- Population: 1,625 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 400 people per square mile
- ZIP Code: 29831
- Road Network: State Route 125
- Nearest Airports: Augusta Regional Airport (GA)
- Libraries: Jackson Public Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Augusta, GA (University Hospital)
Major Schools
Jackson is part of the Aiken County Public School District. Students in Jackson attend Silver Bluff High School (grades 9-12), which enrolls approximately 700 students and offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including advanced coursework and athletic teams. Jackson Middle School serves students in grades 6-8, while Redcliffe Elementary School serves students in grades K-5, with a focus on personalized instruction and community involvement.