Thinking about planting roots in Augusta, GA’s Lakemont neighborhood? You’re not alone—Lakemont has long been a favorite for families, young professionals, and retirees seeking a blend of suburban comfort and city convenience. As a local resident and advocate for the area, I’ll take you on a tour of what it’s really like to call Lakemont home, from the friendly community vibe to its green parks and beyond.
A Warm and Welcoming Community
The moment you turn onto Lakemont Drive, you’ll notice the welcoming nature of this neighborhood. It’s a place where folks still wave from their porches, neighborhood dogs trot by on daily walks, and annual gatherings—like the block party near Wedgewood Park or the holiday light contests—give Lakemont its well-loved community spirit.
Neighbors here tend to look out for one another. Whether it’s lending a hand with yard work or organizing meal trains for families in need, there’s a distinct sense of camaraderie. If you’re the type who likes knowing your neighbors, you’ll find Lakemont a refreshingly genuine place to settle down.
Housing: Classic, Comfortable, and Varied
Lakemont offers a mix of housing, which is part of its appeal. Travel down streets like Lakemont Drive, Maywood Drive, and Pineview Street, and you’ll find:
- Ranch-style homes with large, shaded yards (many built in the 1960s-80s)
- Brick split-level and two-story houses, perfect for families needing extra space
- Some newer constructions and tasteful renovations that blend well with existing architecture
Yards are well-kept, with azaleas, dogwoods, and crepe myrtles providing color in the spring and summer. Most properties include driveways, and some homes feature carports or garages. Home values here remain stable, making Lakemont a smart choice for both first-time buyers and those looking to upgrade.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
While Lakemont maintains a peaceful, suburban feel, it’s surprisingly walkable for Augusta. Sidewalks along main drags like Chason Road and Lakemont Drive make it easy to stroll or jog, and many families walk or bike together, especially on weekends.
Within a 5-10 minute drive (or a breezy bike ride), you’ll find:
- Banks Mill Shopping Center with grocery options, casual eateries, and convenience stores
- Doctors Hospital of Augusta and several medical clinics
- Public library branches and coffee shops nearby
Lakemont’s central location—just south of Wrightsboro Road—puts all the essentials close by, which is a big perk for busy households.
Schools and Family Friendliness
If you have children, Lakemont checks many boxes for family-friendliness. The area is served by:
- Lake Forest Hills Elementary School, known for its strong academic programs and engaged parent-teacher association
- Langford Middle School and T.W. Josey High School (with several private school options a short drive away)
Families often gather at neighborhood parks and support local sports leagues. The safe environment is a draw for parents looking to let their kids ride bikes around the block or meet friends after school. School buses pick up and drop off throughout Lakemont, and the sense of community is palpable during morning routines and after-school play.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Fun
One of Lakemont’s standout features is its access to green space. Wedgewood Park, located off Wedgewood Drive, is a real gem—kids play on new equipment while parents chat at shaded picnic tables. You’ll find residents:
- Hosting birthday parties or holiday barbecues
- Walking dogs along the park trails
- Playing pickup games of soccer or basketball
A short drive gets you to Augusta’s massive Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and serene weekend picnics. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets also make for delightful autumn strolls.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Lakemont enjoys a reputation as one of Augusta’s safer, more stable communities. Neighborhood Watch programs are active, and residents are vigilant in looking out for unusual activity. Streetlights and frequent police patrols along key roads add to the sense of security.
That said, like any Augusta neighborhood, it’s smart to lock up cars and doors at night, but crime reports here remain lower than many comparable areas.
Close to Downtown and Major Employers
One of Lakemont’s highs is its unbeatable location for commuters:
- Roughly 15 minutes by car to downtown Augusta via Milledgeville Road
- Quick 10-minute access to major employers like the Augusta University Health campuses and the VA Medical Center
- Close to Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) for military families
During Masters Week, residents enjoy easy access to Augusta National Golf Club without the gridlock that plagues other neighborhoods.
What Residents Love Most
Talk to anyone who’s lived in Lakemont for a while, and a few themes pop up:
- Strong sense of community—neighbors greet each other by name and pitch in during both celebrations and tough times
- Proximity to everything—from Kroger runs to craft coffee shops, it’s all close at hand without the hassle of downtown traffic
- Beautiful, shady streets perfect for evening walks or teaching kids to ride bikes
- Quiet nights and chirping crickets—rare for a neighborhood this close to city conveniences
Honest Advice for Prospective Residents
Lakemont isn’t flashy, and it’s not the trendiest pocket of Augusta. Instead, it offers steady comfort, family-centered amenities, and a connection to the city’s best offerings. If you’re searching for a place where your neighbors become friends, your kids can play outside, and your commute stays manageable, Lakemont is worthy of a closer look.
Every neighborhood has trade-offs—Lakemont isn’t walkable to downtown nightlife, and you’ll still need a car for most errands. However, if you value peace of mind, friendly faces, and a true sense of home, you’ll quickly see why so many residents have chosen to stay for decades.