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Augusta's Economy Grows, Boosting Jobs and Household Incomes

Data on GDP, jobs and income highlight how local conditions shape opportunities for residents in Richmond County and surrounding areas.

By Augusta News Desk · Published July 24, 2026

How we reported this

Written by AI from the linked sources and not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. Sources are linked where available. Spotted an error or need a correction? Contact corrections@dailynetwork.news.

Augusta's nominal GDP stands at approximately $37 billion, with real GDP expanding at roughly 1.5 percent per year. That pace sits slightly below the national average of 2.2 percent. The figures come from recent economic assessments and provide a baseline for understanding current conditions in the metro area.

Why the Numbers Matter to Residents

Median household income in the metro area registers at $68,000, which is $12,200 below the national median. Median home value sits around $207,000. These measures directly influence purchasing power, housing costs and the ability of families to build savings. Richmond County alone accounts for 44 percent of the region's economic output, so shifts in the broader figures register quickly in local budgets and daily expenses.

Sectors Anchoring Employment

Cybersecurity tied to Fort Gordon and U.S. Army Cyber Command, healthcare anchored by Augusta University and Piedmont Augusta, and advanced manufacturing form the main drivers. Augusta University and Piedmont Augusta together employ more than 25,000 people. The physician labor force in the region nears 288,000. These concentrations shape the types of jobs available and the skills that local training programs emphasize.

Employment and Population Trends

The regional unemployment rate stands at 3.9 percent on a preliminary basis. Total regional employment is projected to increase by 11,881 jobs over the next five years. Population rose by 25,619 over the past five years and is expected to add another 26,336 residents in the coming five years. These patterns affect demand for housing, services and infrastructure without requiring new assumptions.

Practical Steps for Residents

Tracking job growth projections and sector hiring patterns can help workers align training or career moves with available opportunities. Local organizations publish periodic updates on employment and income data that residents can review to stay informed about changes affecting their neighborhoods.