Aiken : South Carolina
Living a Equestrian Lifestyle in Aiken, South_Carolina
Horse lovers will find Aiken, South Carolina great place to live or vacation. This town of 29,000 in western South Carolina’s Sand Hill country grew up as a healthy retreat where the wealthy could escape from hot weather. The “Winter Colony” as it is called has always been popular with the horsy set for fox hunting, steeplechase, and polo horses. Many people come here to either raise their horses or watch them race in steeple chases - the Imperial Cup each March and the Holiday Cup in October. Both of these steeplechase races are sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association. The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum is a local a tribute to the famous flat racing and steeplechase Thoroughbred horses that have trained here. Photo of downtown Aiken courtesy of Wikipedia and Festiva76.
Where to Retire in Aiken and Home Prices
There are many active adult communities in the area with a wide variety of facilities, as well as areas within town in nice neighborhoods.
According to Zillow, the median home value was $194,174 in early 2021, with home prices on the rise the last few years. These prices can be deceptive as there are many homes and estates on the market for millions of dollars, whereas some condominium prices may be far less.
What is Special about Aiken
Named by Southern Living Magazine as the 2018 “South’s Best Small Town.” Said Southern Living: “Spend a
weekend in this town, and you’ll see what makes it so special.”
Aiken Tennis Club (court tennis); University of South Carolina at Aiken; Steeplechase and Thoroughbred racing; Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum at Hopeland Gardens; Aiken Polo Club's Sunday afternoon matches; Hitchcock Woods (trails); Many active adult developments. Woodside Communities has prepared an excellent article about Aiken, "101 Reasons Why We Love Aiken.
What is Not Special about Aiken
Climate and Physical Environment
Aiken is located on the west-central edge of South Carolina. The average July high is 94 and the average January low is 33. June is the wettest month of the year.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
University of South Carolina; Aiken Academy for Lifelong Learning offers many full time classes; Outdoor concerts; Ballet and symphony; Good amateur theatre; most fast-food chains
Crime
The crime rate in Aiken is above average.
Medical Facilities
Aiken Regional Medical Center
Transportation
Augusta Regional Airport is 21 miles. It is not considered a walkable community - you have to drive for most errands. I20 is just to the north.
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