Augusta's Economy: Population Growth, Job Gains, and Rising Incomes

Augusta's nominal GDP is approximately $37 billion, with real GDP growing at roughly 1.5% annually, slightly below the national average of 2.2%. This figure comes from economic analyses that track the region's output against broader trends.

Population and Employment Outlook

The region's population grew by 25,619 over the last five years and is projected to grow by another 26,336 in the next five years, while total regional employment is projected to increase by 11,881 jobs over the same period. These projections indicate continued expansion in residents and workforce needs, which affects planning for services and infrastructure across Augusta.

Industry Employment Breakdown

The largest industries by 2023 jobs are Government (56,772), Health Care and Social Assistance (34,751), Retail Trade (27,931), and Manufacturing (24,903). These sectors form the core of local employment and continue to shape the economy's structure based on the most recent detailed counts available.

Income and Unemployment Context

The median household income is $68,000, which is $12,200 below the national median of $75,100, though labor, housing, and land remain more affordable than in larger markets. As of February 2025, the metro area unemployment rate is 4.5%, slightly above the national average, with key growth sectors including cybersecurity, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and military support services. These elements together describe the balance between affordability and employment conditions in the area.

Local officials and businesses often reference these indicators when assessing opportunities in sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing. The data supports decisions on workforce development and regional investment without requiring immediate new announcements.

Residents and employers can review updates through the Augusta Metro Chamber and related economic reports to monitor shifts in these areas over time.