Richmond County is located in the east-central portion of the U.S. state of Georgia. With Augusta as its county seat Richmond County is known for its history economic opportunities, and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of Richmond County including its geography, demographics, attractions, education, and more.
Geography
Richmond County covers an area of 329 square miles It shares borders with Columbia, McDuffie, Burke, Jefferson, and Aiken Counties
The Savannah River forms the county’s eastern border with South Carolina. The Augusta Canal splits off from the Savannah River and runs through the heart of Augusta. Other major waterways include Butler Creek, Spirit Creek, Rocky Creek, and Raes Creek.
The terrain is varied with plains, marshes, swamps, and sand hills. The highest point is Heggs Hill at 580 feet above sea level. The county has a humid subtropical climate with short, mild winters and long, hot, humid summers.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Richmond County was 202,518 making it Georgia’s third most populous county. Augusta is the primary city.
Roughly 54% of residents are Black or African American, 39% are White, and 5% are Hispanic or Latino of any race. Median household income is $37,366 with 18.7% of residents living below the poverty line.
With three major military bases, Richmond County has a significant veteran population. Almost 14% of residents over 18 are veterans.
Economy
The economy of Richmond County centers around the medical, military, manufacturing, technology, and service sectors. Some of the largest employers are Fort Gordon Army Base, Augusta University Medical Center, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, and the Richmond County School System.
As home to the famous Augusta National Golf Club, Richmond County sees significant tourism dollars, especially during the annual Masters Golf Tournament each April. Tourism supports over 20,000 local jobs.
Attractions
Some of Richmond County’s top attractions include:
- Augusta Canal National Heritage Area – historic canal with guided boat tours
- Augusta Museum of History – exhibits on local history and culture
- Morris Museum of Art – the first museum dedicated to the art and artists of the American South
- Augusta Riverwalk – riverfront park and trail system
- Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History – museum celebrating the legacy of Lucy Laney
- Augusta Players Theater – community theater producing shows year-round
Outdoor activities like boating, fishing, hiking and golfing also draw thousands each year, especially during the warmer months.
Education
Richmond County Public Schools serve approximately 30,000 students across 49 schools. There are 28 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 9 high schools.
Higher education options include Augusta Technical College, Augusta University, Paine College, and East Georgia State College. There are also satellite campuses for Georgia Military College and Troy University.
The county has over a dozen private schools as well including Westminster Schools of Augusta, Augusta Christian Schools, and Augusta Preparatory Day School.
Local Government
Richmond County operates under a consolidated city-county unified government. The county seat and administrative center is Augusta.
The Augusta Commission is the governing body with 10 commissioners elected from single-member districts. The Mayor is elected at-large and presides over the commission.
Some of the county departments and services include:
- Richmond County Sheriff’s Office
- Fire and Emergency Management
- Recreation and Parks
- Public Transit
- Augusta Regional Airport
- Utilities like water, sewer, sanitation
- Tax and tag offices
- Judicial system
Living in Richmond County
Richmond County offers an urban setting with affordable cost of living. Housing options range from historic homes to modern apartments and condos. Public transit provides transportation assistance to residents.
There are family-friendly activities, outdoor recreation, diverse dining and shopping options. Job opportunities abound in healthcare, military, manufacturing and more.
Richmond County provides the conveniences of city life coupled with the charm and slower pace of a southern town. Residents enjoy warm weather year-round plus a rich heritage spanning over 275 years.
Virginia Agricultural Close-up: Richmond County
FAQ
What county is Richmond in?
Wayne County: Come learn about the past.
Why is Staten Island in Richmond County?
In 1683, the colony of New York was divided into ten counties. Along with a few smaller islands nearby, Staten Island was named Richmond County as part of this process. The name comes from the title of Charles Lennox, 1st Duke of Richmond, who was King Charles II’s child by another woman.
What county is Richmond VA in?
Richmond, independent city and capital of Virginia, U. S. , situated in the east-central part of the state at the head of navigation of the James River. It is in the middle of a metropolitan area that includes Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover counties, but it is not part of any of those counties’ government.
What is Richmond County, GA known for?
Augusta-Richmond County is one of only three consolidated governments in Georgia. Augusta is most famous for being the site of the Masters Golf Tournament, which takes place there every year during the first full week of April. The area is also a center for medicine, manufacturing, and military.
