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EVANS, Ga. ()- Residents familiar with the area will know Columbia County stands out as one of the fastest-growing regions not just in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), but across the entire state of Georgia.
According to county officials, the past decade has witnessed a significant surge in growth within the county.
Looking ahead to 2026, their objective is to strengthen community partnerships and identify further opportunities for expansion.
From Riverwood Plantation to Mullins Crossing, Columbia County has seen a remarkable increase in business activity.
Officials attribute this boom to the rise in housing developments that have emerged in recent years.
“Growing up in this county, I can remember not finding good places to eat, not having good places to go and hang out. Now, it’s truly grown a lot with the rooftops that have come to the county,” said Columbia County manager Scott Johnson.
Neighborhoods, apartments, and town homes have opened restaurants, shopping centers, and small businesses popping up.
Heath Taylor has been learning a lot more about the county since being appointed as the Chamber of Commerce President earlier this year.
“I think our current landscape for business is as strong as it’s ever been. I’m excited about what’s on tap—and what I see here is strategic planning, strategic growth, and dynamic leadership,” said Taylor.
Growth also continues in the Columbia County School District.
With high test scores and upgraded facilities, they’re among the best in the state as they enhance the learning environment.
“The buildings can help that, but what happens inside those buildings is the most important—our people, our students, and our families coming in. This will allow us a great place to do that with that work, to come together, have a little more room, and upgrade our facilities very similar to what you’re going to see in a lot of other counties across our state,” said superintendent Dr. Stephen Flynt.
Leaders say working with the schools will help lead to more business growth.
They’re specifically targeting the industries in small business, healthcare, and cyber security to improve the quality of life for the future.
“We’ve got a lot of success right now where we can sit back and say ‘look what’s happened here. Look around the region, and look at Columbia County. Let’s pat everybody on the back and say, great job.’ But, our leaders aren’t doing that,” Taylor said.
The county manager has this message to families considering moving to the area.
“When population is going up and tax rates are going down, it just doesn’t happen everywhere. It’s such a good story to tell, and it all leads back to quality of life. So, for the people choosing Columbia County—or thinking about choosing Columbia County—this is going to be the best quality of life you can possibly get,” said Johnson.
One business many of you know is on the way is Trader Joe’s.
The economic development authority says they’re having ongoing conversations with them, but still no confirmation on the exact location or opening date.