MAINE - Augusta is one of the best places to buy real estate in the United States. The city's median house price increased by more than 20% over the past three years. The affordability index is one out of 10, making it one of the most affordable markets in the country. The city was named one of the country's best places to live by U.S. News & World Report and is rated highly for its job market, quality of life, and net migration. In addition, its cost of living is nearly 20% lower than the national average, and its climate is humid subtropical.