Is Columbia, SC a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What Is Columbia, SC Known For?

Columbia is situated in the center of South Carolina. The city shines as a political hub, home to the state's government. Meanwhile, educational institutions offer a blend of academia and culture, and riverside parks provide a nature reprieve for families and retirees alike.

Columbia leans toward being moderately conservative. The presence of various Christian denominations plays a vital role in the community. Columbia is racially diverse, with multiple minority groups making their mark on the city's cultural landscape.

For families, Columbia offers well-kept parks and various educational opportunities. Students find themselves in an academic haven, while retirees are drawn to the city's peaceful neighborhoods. Singles and couples can explore a modest nightlife and various cultural events.

Highlights

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Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Columbia, SC, include nature areas, educational hubs, political center, and more. While some Cons are around humidity, public transportation, and job market.
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Safety and Crime

Columbia, SC is ranked 329th out of the top 500 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 287th on safety from violent crime, and 345th on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Columbia, SC is 22% lower than the national average.
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Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Columbia, SC leaves $1,978 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Columbia, SC in January is 44°F and 81°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +1°F warmer in January and is on average +2°F warmer in July.
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Politics and Voting

Columbia, SC voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 53.7% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.

The assessments presented on this website, including those related to crime, safety, cost of living, and other location characteristics (e.g., states, cities, towns, villages, neighborhoods, areas, landmarks), are based on various sources and our internal research methods. These assessments are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete and should not be used as the sole basis for making any decisions.