In South Carolina, residents can choose from historic cities, lively suburbs, and idyllic smaller towns. While destinations like Charleston and Hilton Head Island stand out among tourists, the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) offers its own unique appeal. The city of Aiken, for instance, is known for its equestrian culture and storied charm, and it’s an enticing, generally affordable place to live.

But before you move to the Palmetto State, you need to understand the costs associated with living in South Carolina. These include housing, utilities, transportation, and taxes.

Cost of living in South Carolina

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, per-capita living costs in South Carolina average $46,220 per year. 

This figure is 6% lower than the national average, with housing coming in at 21% below the U.S. average. And your dollar could go even further depending on where in South Carolina you choose to live. 

Cities like Columbia and Spartanburg lean more on the side of affordability, while larger cities like Charleston and beachfront enclaves like Mount Pleasant are significantly more expensive. In Aiken and the greater CSRA, families, retirees, and professionals have access to budget-friendly living in a community-oriented, picturesque setting.

Housing costs in South Carolina

Housing is one of South Carolina residents’ greatest expenses. The average home value in South Carolina was $293,664 in December 2024, compared to $357,469 across the U.S. Affordable housing options are more prevalent in rural and suburban areas, while urban centers almost always include a higher price-point.

Here are some key considerations for housing in South Carolina:

• Median home sale price: $311,167 (based on data from December 2024)
• Average one-bedroom rent: $988 per month
• Urban vs. rural: Urban areas like Charleston typically cost more than rural towns.

Take a look at the home values for 20 South Carolina cities, based on Zillow estimates from December 2024.

Keep in mind that these are the average home values of different South Carolina cities, and your housing expenses will almost certainly vary depending on factors like the size and condition of your home. The local amenities here in the CSRA, and whether you choose to rent or own your property, will also determine how much you pay in housing each month. 

Utility costs in South Carolina

Utility bills in South Carolina often vary depending on the season. On average, households spend $383.87 per month for electricity, water, gas, and internet. Summers generally feature warm temperatures that lead to higher energy bills, while the state’s mild winters help keep heating expenses comparatively low.

Here is a breakdown of average monthly utility costs in South Carolina:

• Electricity: $145 
• Gas: $96 
• Water: $18 
• Cable and internet: $122 

Investing in energy-efficient appliances can drastically reduce your utility costs. Keep this in mind while you consider your move to South Carolina. Utility costs in CSRA communities like Aiken and North Augusta are similar to those listed above.

Transportation costs in South Carolina

Transportation costs in South Carolina vary widely based on your location and commute. Gas prices are lower than the national average at $2.76 per gallon, while auto insurance costs an average of $610 annually for minimum coverage or $1,922 for full coverage (which includes collision and comprehensive insurance). This is lower than the national average of $2,485 for full-coverage insurance. 

Here is what you should budget annually for transportation in South Carolina:

• One working adult (no children): $10,447
• Two working adults (no children): $12,125
• Two working adults (three children): $17,554

In Aiken and the surrounding CSRA, most residents commute in their personal vehicles. Yet the area’s well-maintained roads and access to major highways make travel convenient, not to mention scenic. 

Other living costs in South Carolina

Groceries, healthcare, and childcare also play a role in the cost of living in South Carolina. Entertainment and recreation, like visiting Congaree National Park or exploring historic downtown and equestrian events, allow for more flexible spending.

Here are the average miscellaneous monthly expenses in South Carolina:

• Groceries: $350 per person, per month
• Healthcare: $6,677 per person, per year (including insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs). This is lower than the national average of $8,331.
• Childcare: $9,000 per child, per year 
• Entertainment: Expenses tend to vary, although there are plenty of affordable activities.

Many of South Carolina’s attractions, including state parks, historic sites, and gallery visits, are free or low-cost. In Aiken, guided stable tours and Thursday night jazz at the stunning Willcox Hotel offer something for everyone.

Taxes in South Carolina

South Carolina’s tax structure includes a state income tax ranging from 0% to 6.2% for the 2024 tax year. 

Property taxes in South Carolina are among the lowest in the country, with an average effective property tax rate of 0.5%. (Beaufort County collects the highest property taxes in the state, while Chesterfield County has the lowest property tax rate.)

Meanwhile, South Carolina imposes a base sales tax rate of 6%, and local jurisdictions can add additional taxes. This leads to combined rates ranging from 6% to 9%, with an average of 7.696%. 

Understanding these taxes can help you plan for your move to the Palmetto State.

The bottom line

The cost of living in South Carolina lets residents live comfortably at every stage of life. This is a place where your budget can go further than the national average, and where you and your family can live happily for years to come. Take the time to research the diverse communities here in South Carolina, including Aiken and the broader CSRA, and find a place that suits your budget and lifestyle. 

There are plenty of reasons to move to Georgia. The streets of Atlanta and Savannah have metropolitan appeal, while the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains offer stunning scenery and a deep rural charm. 

However, before you move to the Peach State, you should understand what living here will cost you. From housing and utilities to taxes and transportation, let’s take a look at the expenses that come with calling Georgia—and particularly the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA)—home.

Cost of living in Georgia

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, total living costs in Georgia are $43,482 per person per year. 

This means that the cost of living in Georgia is 11% lower than the national average, with housing coming in at 21% less than the U.S. standard. And your dollar could stretch further depending on where in Georgia you choose to live. 

Cities like Augusta and Athens are generally more affordable, while large metro areas like Atlanta often come with a higher price tag. (The cost of living in the state capital is still 3% lower than the national average.)

Housing costs in Georgia

Housing is one of the greatest expenses Georgia residents face. The average home value in the state was $326,280 in December 2024, compared to $357,469 in the U.S. Housing is often more affordable in rural and suburban areas, while urban centers, especially in Atlanta and the surrounding area, demand higher prices.

Here are some considerations for housing in Georgia:

• Median home sale price: $323,333 (based on data from December 2024)
• Average one-bedroom rent: $933 per month 
• Urban vs. rural: Housing in cities like Atlanta and Savannah is usually more expensive. Conversely, the average home value in Augusta is significantly lower. 
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The CSRA typically falls within the lower-to-moderate range for housing costs in Georgia, making the area a safe, budget-friendly option for families and retirees alike. Take a look at the home values for 20 Georgia cities, based on Zillow estimates from December 2024.

Median home sale prices and rental rates in the CSRA offer more accessibility than urban hubs, yet they’re still near essential services and engaging recreation. Plus, there’s a great range in the area. Housing in Evans costs more on average than in Waynesboro, yet it offers wonderful amenities and options that suit most budgets.

Utility costs in Georgia

Utility bills in Georgia tend to fluctuate depending on the time of year. On average, households spend approximately $411 monthly for electricity, water, gas, and internet, and the CSRA reflects these statewide figures.

Here is a breakdown of average monthly utility costs in Georgia:

Electricity: $134 

Gas: $141 

Water: $28 

Cable and internet: $108 

For instance, with the relatively mild winters in Augusta-Richmond and Columbia counties, and with air conditioning systems being more energy-efficient than ever, CSRA residents benefit from manageable heating and cooling costs. This makes the area especially attractive for residents seeking a comfortable yet affordable lifestyle.

Transportation costs in Georgia

Transportation costs in Georgia tend to vary based on how you get around. Gas prices fall below the national average, while auto insurance costs approximately $2,876 annually for full coverage, which includes both collision and comprehensive insurance. 

Generally speaking, here is what you should budget for transportation in Georgia:

• Gas prices: $2.91 per gallon 
• Auto insurance: $2,876 per year for full coverage or $1,029 for minimum coverage

In the CSRA, transportation costs are comparable to the state average. While public transit options in Augusta may not match Atlanta’s MARTA system, the region offers reliable commuting routes and carpooling programs.

Other living costs in Georgia

Groceries, healthcare, and childcare play a big role in the cost of living in Georgia. And the Peach State’s entertainment options—like visiting Tallulah Gorge State Park or taking in an Atlanta Braves game—appeal to all budgets and preferences.

Here are the top miscellaneous expenses in Georgia:

• Groceries: $308 per person, per month
• Healthcare: $6,595 per person, per year (including both insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs). This is well below the national average.
• Childcare: $8,500 per child, per year 
• Entertainment: Expenses vary widely, with plenty of options for free and low-cost activities.

Many of Georgia’s most popular attractions are free. Residents can take in the sunrise on Tybee Island, experience Savannah’s art galleries, and walk or bike the famous Beltline in Atlanta. In the CSRA, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is home to meandering trails and ample birdwatching, and the International Disc Golf Center offers competitive rates for the whole family.

Taxes in Georgia

Georgia’s tax structure includes a state income tax that transitioned to a flat rate of 5.39% in 2024, replacing the previous graduated rates that ranged from 1% to 5.75%. 

Meanwhile, property taxes in Georgia are moderate, with an average effective property tax rate of 0.81%. 

And sales tax varies by county. The state imposes a base sales tax rate of 4%, while local jurisdictions can levy additional taxes. This leads to combined rates ranging from 6% to 9% across different areas. 

These taxes can significantly impact your living costs, so it’s important to understand how they apply to you here in Georgia, and in the CSRA in particular. 

The bottom line

Georgia’s cost of living offers an excellent combination of affordability and opportunity, with a range of lifestyles that suit different budgets. By understanding the financial landscape here in the CSRA, and by embracing the fact that housing costs come in well below the national average, you can find a community that perfectly captures your needs. 

Saving money for a house while renting often feels like balancing two financial goals at once. But with the right plan, you can build your savings without sacrificing your long-term lifestyle. These steps will guide you toward success while you’re still renting, and bring you one step closer to your ideal home.

Budget basics: set a budget and stick to it

A well-thought-out budget is the foundation of any savings plan. Start by taking a careful look at your current spending habits. Track your expenses over the course of a month, and divide them into categories like housing, transportation, groceries, and discretionary spending.

Next, identify areas where you can scale back. Do you really need three streaming services? Are you dining out more often than you should? Even the smallest adjustments can add up over time, and they’ll leave more room in your budget for savings.

Once you’ve streamlined your expenses, create a monthly budget. Allocate a specific percentage of your income—experts often recommend 20%—toward your house fund. The key here is consistency, so stick to your plan even when temptations arise. Apps like Monarch or YNAB can help you monitor your progress.

Calculate what you can afford

Before you begin the homebuying process, take the time to calculate how much house you can realistically afford. Be sure to factor in future mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs.

Use online mortgage calculators to estimate your monthly payments based on different home prices and down payment amounts. Knowing your affordability range will keep your expectations grounded and help minimize financial stress.

Set a down payment goal

Your down payment will probably be your greatest upfront cost when buying a home. Traditional advice suggests saving 20% of the home’s purchase price to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), but many first-time buyers qualify for programs with lower requirements, such as 3-5% down.

This is where that budget we mentioned comes in, along with the type of mortgage you’re considering. While a larger down payment can lower your monthly payments and overall loan costs, you don’t want to put down too much. Avoid draining your savings entirely, as you’ll need extra funds for emergencies and moving costs.

Pay off debt to boost your credit score

Debt can be a significant barrier to saving, but it’s also something you can address head-on. Begin by listing all your debts, including credit card balances, personal loans, and car payments. 

Consider using strategies like the debt snowball (where you pay off smaller debts first) or the avalanche method (where you initially tackle high-interest debts) to make consistent progress.

Reducing your debt will free up more money for savings and improve your credit score, both of which play an important role in applying for a mortgage. A higher credit score can help you secure better loan terms, and potentially save you thousands over the life of your mortgage.

Develop a savings plan

Without a plan, your financial goals may feel overwhelming. After calculating how much money you’ll need for your down payment, closing costs, and other homebuying expenses, break your total savings goal into manageable monthly or weekly targets. 

For example, if you want to save $40,000 in two years, that’s about $1,667 per month. This mindset makes the goal feel more manageable than viewing it as a lump sum.

You can also celebrate small milestones to stay motivated. And if you get a bonus at work or a tax refund, consider putting a significant portion directly into your house fund.

Take advantage of first-time homebuyer programs

First-time homebuyer programs are a wonderful option for renters who have yet to purchase a home. They often provide benefits like down payment assistance, tax credits, or favorable loan terms.

For instance, FHA loans let qualified buyers put down as little as 3.5%, while VA loans for veterans may require no down payment at all. Some states and municipalities also offer grants or low-interest loans to first-time homebuyers.

Add new income streams

Look for opportunities to earn extra money through part-time work, freelance gigs, or creative side hustles.

For example, if you have a marketable skill like graphic design or tutoring, consider offering your services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. If time is limited, you can look for flexible opportunities like weekend restaurant shifts or one-off projects. Other popular options include rideshare driving, pet sitting, selling handmade goods on Etsy, or reselling on platforms like eBay or Poshmark.

Choose a side hustle that suits your schedule, and remember that even a few hours a week can make a difference. Earning an extra $300 a month from a side hustle adds up to $3,600 per year, which is a significant boost to your house fund!

Get a roommate

Sharing your living space might not be glamorous, but it’s one of the easiest ways to save money while renting. By splitting rent, utilities, and other household expenses with a roommate, you can significantly lower your monthly costs.

If you’re hesitant, know that this arrangement doesn’t have to be permanent. Try to see it as a short-term adjustment that can speed up your path to homeownership.

Automate your savings

Saving automatically removes the temptation to spend money. Set up a direct deposit from your paycheck into a separate savings account, or use banking apps that round up your purchases and transfer the difference.

This hands-off approach makes saving a regular habit. Over time, you might not even notice the money leaving your account, but you’ll definitely notice your house fund growing.

Choose cash over credit

Switching to cash for everyday purchases can help you stay on budget and avoid unnecessary debt. When you use cash, you’re more aware of how much you’re spending, which can curb impulse buying.

Reserve credit cards for emergencies or planned expenses, and always pay off your balance in full to avoid interest charges.

Downsize your life

Scaling back your lifestyle is another simple way to save. If your current rent is high, think about moving to a smaller apartment or a more affordable neighborhood. And note that downsizing, in addition to saving money on rent, can lower your utility bills and other living expenses.

You can also downsize by decluttering your rental home. Furniture, electronics, and clothing in decent condition can attract decent prices online.

There’s no doubt that saving for a house while renting seems challenging. Yet with the right strategies in place, it’s entirely achievable. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon be unlocking the front door of your new home.

New construction homes are a source of excitement. But before you find your ideal property, you may be deciding between two exceptional options: presale homes and spec homes. Each type of home offers certain advantages, and the best fit will depend on your timeline and budget. You’ll also want to consider how involved you’d like to be in the design process.

Let’s take a look at how presale and spec homes differ and go over which option is right for you.

What is a presale home?

A presale home is a home you purchase before it’s built. The idea here is that you can collaborate with the builder on specific decisions like choosing a lot and selecting finishes like flooring, countertops, and fixtures. Presale homes are a wonderful option for buyers who want to make certain their residence captures their lifestyle and future needs.

Say you work remotely and plan to spend the majority of your time working right from your new home. You may want a floorplan with a large kitchen and a flex space for a home office—perfectly suited to your working needs. In this case, a presale home could be right for you.

If you’re thinking of buying a presale home, you should know that you won’t close until the build is complete. You will, however, be able to visit the site during construction in most cases. Talk to your builder for more information on costs and timelines, and plan to enjoy watching your vision come to life

What is a spec home?

A spec home, also known as a speculative home, is designed and built in speculation that a buyer will purchase the home at a later date. The finishes and features are preselected by the builder’s design team, which means you’ll see styles that appeal to a broad range of people. These homes are typically less personalized but still designed to be inviting and appealing to most.

If you’re on a short timeline (for instance, if you’re relocating for a new career opportunity), spec homes are excellent. They eliminate the waiting period associated with new construction and allow you to settle in quickly. Just know that they don’t offer as much flexibility in the way of personal design choices.

Spec homes are often a real draw for buyers who enjoy a specific builder’s portfolio, as the new construction will likely reflect the same style.

Key differences between presale and spec homes

If you find a builder you love, it might not matter whether you opt for a presale or a spec home. Still, you should know what you’re getting into as you plan your future. After all, the median length of homeownership is over 13 years—a three-year increase over the last decade.

Consider the main differences between presale and spec homes:

• Timing

Presale homes take months to complete, while spec homes can be move-in ready.

• Customization

Presale homes let you curate designs to your needs, whereas spec homes are built with preselected features.

• Certainty 

Spec homes let you see the final product before you buy, while presale homes require patience and trust during construction.

• Costs

Presale homes come at a premium expense over spec homes due to the upgrades and customization. 

Choosing between these two options ultimately depends on your priorities. Are you looking for a home that captures your personal vision, or do you prefer the elegant simplicity of a completed build?

What are the pros and cons of presale homes?

Presale homes are a wonderful option if you value personalization and can sit tight through the construction process. They’re good for buyers who want to plan ahead and play an active role in the design of their new home.

Pros of presale homes

• Customization

Presale homes give you the freedom to select finishes, layouts, and upgrades. For instance, you may choose to include a large pantry and custom shelving in your home to meet your storage needs.

• Lot selection

Maybe you prefer a quiet corner lot, or maybe you crave a space with sweeping views. With presale homes, buyers can often pick their preferred lot. 

• Long-term planning

Presale homes let you plan for future needs, like adding wider doorways, a low-threshold entry, or grab bars for easier access 

Cons of presale homes

• Longer timelines

Construction can take five to six months or longer. This means that to consider a presale home, you’ll need to be on a flexible timeline.

• Potential cost increases

Customizations and upgrades can drive up costs, so it’s important to stay mindful of your initial budget.

• More ambiguity

Until the home is completed, you rely on renderings and plans. This makes it more challenging to get a clear sense of the final product.

The longer timeline and potential for additional costs mean presale homes aren’t for everyone. But if you prefer to be involved in your home’s design, this type of new construction offers something special.

What are the pros and cons of spec homes?

Spec homes are a compelling option for buyers who value convenience and need to move quickly. They offer a predictable, low-stress buying process and let you see exactly what you’re purchasing.

Pros of spec homes

• Quick move-in

Spec homes can be move-in ready or nearly complete. They couldn’t be a better fit for buyers who need to move soon but still prefer a new construction home.

• Predictable costs

With preselected finishes and a set price, a spec home means you can avoid unexpected expenses.

• Simplicity

Since the design decisions have already been made for you, buying a spec home is more straightforward. This is great news if you tend to struggle with decision fatigue.

Cons of spec homes

• Limited customization

With a spec home, you accept the layout and finishes as they are, even if they don’t entirely reflect your preferences.

• Limited lot options 

Spec homes are built on lots chosen by the builder, so you might not get your preferred location.

• Potential compromises

While they’re certainly functional, spec homes may lack the special features or upgrades you might prioritize in a presale.

Granted, you may have to sacrifice some level of personalization when you choose a spec home. But this type of new construction is a practical and efficient, still elegant solution for many buyers. 

How to choose between presale and spec homes

When deciding between a presale and a spec home, you’ll want to ask yourself a series of important questions:

• Do I want a home that reflects my personal style?
• What kind of a budget am I working with?
• Am I willing to wait for construction to finish?
• Or do I need something move-in ready with fewer decisions to make?

You may want a presale home if:

• You value customization.
• You’re not in a rush.
• You can accept the possibility of delays.

On the other hand, you may prefer a spec home if:

• You need a home quickly.
• You prefer a simpler, faster homebuying experience.
• You already like the builder’s design choices.

Both presale and spec homes have their benefits. By carefully considering your timeline, budget, and design preferences, you can find a stunning new construction home that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.   

One of our most popular Bill Beazley neighborhoods, Hayne’s Station, has a rich history. Located just 2 minutes away from one of the country’s most well-known military bases, Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon), Hayne’s Station has been a go-to spot for military personnel and their families, as well as those who enjoy the Grovetown area.

Did you know that this neighborhood was named in honor of Paul Hamilton Hayne? Hayne was a famous poet in the post-Civil War era who ended up in the Grovetown area in the 1860s after his Charleston, South Carolina home burned down and he lost his fortune. Hayne and his family took residence in a shanty in Copse Hill (hence one of our streets in the neighborhood, Copse Drive). He earned his living in Grovetown writing prose and poetry. In the 1870s, Hayne solicited the postal service to create a post office in Grovetown. On September 28, 1877, the first U.S. mail service was inaugurated right here in Grovetown, Georgia!

As for the “Station” part of Hayne’s Station, railroad structures transported Augusta passengers from 1878-1970 when passenger trains discontinued routes in the Augusta-Atlanta area. Grovetown was a popular summer destination for many wealthy Augusta residents as it is situated away from the heat of the swampy river areas. The train was a frequent source of travel for them as well as family and guests.

Camp Gordon was established in 1942, causing Grovetown to experience rapid growth. It later became Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) and many military families looked for housing with the convenience of the railroad. Retired military chose to stay in the small town and experience the benefits of stable growth.

Grovetown’s current population is more than 10,000 and steadily continues to grow. Although it is no longer a quiet, small town, it is a desirable residence for many families. The beautiful Hayne’s Station has semi-custom homes available for you today, so give us a call and make your way to the Grovetown area!

*History gathered from the Grovetown Museum.

Available Homes in Hayne's Station

One of the fastest growing military installations in the United States, Fort Gordon, formerly known as Fort Gordon, sits just outside Augusta, Georgia. If you are preparing for a PCS to Fort Gordon, taking time to understand the area, housing options, schools, and lifestyle can make your transition smoother and far less stressful.

Military moves can feel overwhelming, but the Augusta region is known for being welcoming to service members and their families. With a strong military presence and a growing economy, the area offers a balance of small town comfort and steady development.

Understanding the CSRA: Your New Home Region

The Augusta metro area is commonly called the CSRA, short for the Central Savannah River Area. The name comes from the Savannah River, which runs through the region and provides scenic outdoor recreation year round.

Families PCSing to Fort Gordon quickly discover plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including:

• Riverwalk strolls and local parks
• Kayaking and boating
• Hiking and biking trails
• Family friendly festivals and events

Living near the river adds a relaxed pace of life that many military families appreciate after settling in.

The Augusta's April Golf Tournament and What It Means for PCS Families

Augusta is internationally known as the home of the world famous golf tournament, held every April. This week brings visitors from around the world and significantly increases traffic and lodging demand.

For families PCSing to Fort Gordon, it helps to know:

• Schools typically have spring break during Masters week
• Restaurant wait times and hotel prices increase
• Many locals plan vacations during this time

While it can be busy, it is also a point of pride for the community and a unique experience you will likely hear about often.

Housing Options When PCSing to Fort Gordon

On post housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities. While many service members choose to live on base, a large portion of military families live off post in nearby communities across Richmond and Columbia Counties.

Popular reasons families choose off post housing include:

• More home style and size options
• Access to neighborhood amenities
• Short commutes to base gates
• Strong resale and rental markets

Local builders such as Bill Beazley Homes offer several communities near the installation, including Haynes Station, located just outside Gate 2, making it one of the closest neighborhood options for commuters.

Schools and Family Life Near Fort Gordon

For families with children, school zones are often a top consideration during a PCS. Columbia County and parts of Richmond County are known for highly regarded public schools and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

In addition to schools, families will find:

• Youth sports leagues
• Community events and farmers markets
• Libraries and recreation centers
• Faith based and civic organizations

These resources help military families quickly build routines and feel connected to the community.

Mission and Growth at Fort Gordon

Fort Gordon has long been known as the Home of the Signal Corps, but the installation’s role continues to expand. Today it is recognized as both the Signal Center of Excellence and the Cyber Center of Excellence, bringing continued growth, new units, and modern facilities to the area.

This ongoing expansion contributes to:

• Job growth in the civilian sector
• Increased housing demand
• New retail and dining options
• Infrastructure improvements

For families PCSing to Fort Gordon, this growth means a community that continues to evolve and invest in its future.

Weather and Lifestyle in Augusta

The climate around Fort Gordon is typically hot and humid in the summer with mild winters. Many families look for homes with access to pools or nearby lakes to stay comfortable during the warmest months.

Seasonal highlights include:

• Mild fall weather perfect for outdoor activities
• Blooming spring landscapes
• Long summers ideal for water recreation

Understanding the climate helps you plan everything from wardrobe to home features when preparing for your move.

Final Thoughts on Your PCS to Fort Gordon

Augusta offers a unique blend of military tradition, Southern hospitality, and steady growth. While every PCS comes with challenges, many service members find Fort Gordon to be a rewarding duty station with strong community support and a high quality of life.

With the right preparation and local knowledge, your PCS to Fort Gordon can be more than just a move. It can be the start of a comfortable and enjoyable chapter for you and your family.

The fall season is full of changing leaves, cool breezes, pumpkin patches and more. It’s also a great time for crafting with items from nature such as leaves and acorns. If your little ones are in need of fun activities to do in their free time, here are a few craft ideas to celebrate the season. 

• These wooden spoon scarecrows from Best Ideas for Kids are an easy craft that will double as cute fall decor for the kitchen and pieces for a fall puppet show! 
• A popsicle stick scarecrow like this one from Simple Mom Project is a good craft for a chilly, rainy day. You likely have all of the materials lying around already and this is an easy one to personalize and make it your own. 
• Studio DIY has a tutorial for apple place cards that can dress up the dinner table for any gathering with family and friends. All you’ll need is any color cardstock, scissors, a pencil and a permanent marker. 
• Crafts on Sea provides a simple tutorial for fall leaf suncatchers that you can use to adorn windows and doors. 
• Have extra cupcake liners laying around? Check out this cupcake liner owl craft from Artsy Craftsy Mom. 
• Wanting to recycle an old book before you trash it? Gather some of the pages and create a beautiful garland of glittery book page leaves with this tutorial from Domestically Blissful. 
• This woven paper apple craft from Buggy and Buddy is a great way for little ones to practice their fine motor skills and color recognition while creating a fun work of art. 
• Collecting leaves is a popular fall pastime. Try a new way to preserve the beautiful leaves your little one finds outside by creating these salt dough leaf impressions from The Imagination Tree. 
• Pinecones are another common collectible. Try turning them into cute little pinecone hedgehogs with The Mad House’s tutorial. 
• Have kids gather a few acorns and paint them the color/pattern of their choice and add a magnet piece to the back for a year-round display option. An easy example is the strawberry acorn magnet by Crafts by Amanda. 

The good news about these crafts is that they aren’t limited to just Halloween and Thanksgiving. Use them to decorate your home throughout the season as long as the leaves are falling and changing.

Watching the leaves fall and change colors is one of the simple joys of the transition between seasons. Cozy sweaters, savory lattes, apple cider, and bright autumn colors are staples for fall. If you’re looking for a quick trip to take for picturesque views of the leaves changing, here are a few places to consider for a visit: 

Piedmont Park, Atlanta 

Believe it or not, you don’t necessarily have to go to a state park or to the mountains to see the beautiful foliage of autumn. Plan to spend a day in Atlanta and relax at Piedmont Park with the beautiful views along with the architecture Atlanta has to offer. There are nice paved trails in the park and it is pet-friendly as well. Make sure your phone (or camera) is charged and snap away at this beautiful spot! 

Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls

Tallulah Gorge is about a 3 hour drive from the Augusta area and the views are worth every mile of travel. It’s a beautiful state park year-round, but especially breathtaking in the fall with the canyon that runs through and the colorful oak and maple trees. 

Red Top Mountain State Park, Cartersville

About an hour north of Atlanta, you‘ll find Red Top Mountain State Park. Lake Allatoona is nearby and beautifully reflects all of the fall colors. There are many different trails to hike with varying degrees of difficulty as well. 

Caesar’s Head State Park, Cleveland, South Carolina

On the South Carolina side, drive about 3 hours to Caesar’s Head and access the overlook on the Blue Ridge Escarpment for spectacular views that extend into North Carolina and Georgia. There are a number of hiking trails and trailside camping if you want to live in the beautiful leaves for a night! 

Jones Gap State Park, Marietta, South Carolina 

The deep mountain cove at Jones Gap brings peace and incredible views. The park is joined with Caesars Head in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, which allows hikers to connect between the two parks. The scenic Middle Saluda River also runs through Jones Gap for the soothing sounds of nature while enjoying the warm tones of fall leaves. 

Wherever you decide to watch the leaves change, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to snap away with all of the natural photo opportunities surrounding you!

Looking to redo your countertops? Granite, marble and laminate are all common upgrade options. But have you heard of cultured marble? If not, buckle up and be prepared to push your other options to the side. You may just fall in love with this one! 

Cultured marble isn’t the same as pure marble. Instead, it is a blend of stone particles and resins combined with pigments to create a variety of colors along with natural looking patterns. Unlike quarried stone, cultured marble is created by casting it into molds for specific pieces such as bathtubs, countertops and backsplashes. 

The molds are lined with a gel coat that bonds the cultured marble mixture and creates a hard, transparent surface. Once all pieces have cured, they are removed and polished with a shine or given a matte finish, depending on the customer’s desire. 

Since cultured marble is cast, there is a wide variety of options for size, shape and edging. The final product ends up being nonporous, so there is no need to seal yearly or maintain grout lines. Could you imagine a grout-free backsplash? The low maintenance of cultured marble is a popular selling point! It is also easy to clean with smooth, non-abrasive cleaners. 

Not only is it low-maintenance, it is also beautifully customizable. Since it is casted, you can come up with your own pattern and colors. It is also durable due to the nonporous finish that helps it withstand stains and chips. 

Another benefit of cultured marble is the affordability. It is generally less expensive to make and install than heavier slab marble or granite but will still increase the overall resale value of your home. And since the molding process results in clean, simple lines, it will look like you spent a fortune on it. 

Whether you are in the process of building a new construction home or are looking to remodel your current space, look into the cultured marble options in your area. The ability to customize, the low maintenance and durability are all great reasons to make the switch to cultured marble.