Columbia

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Columbia, SC

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Soak up some southern hospitality

University Historic Riverfront Outdoor Adventure College Sports Family-Friendly

Hugging the Congaree River and stretching east, Columbia is a sprawling city with a history dating back to colonial times. Nicknamed the "Capital of Southern Hospitality," Columbia is a welcoming, warm city -- it is also a college town, home to the University of South Carolina. The university is located downtown, covering over 359 acres. The historic, top-ranking university dates back to 1801, but the oldest structure in Columbia is the Seibels House, built around 1796. It currently serves as a house museum.

While there's plenty for college students to do, Columbia provides a variety of activities -- whether you're a golfer, a shopper, or a foodie. Kid-friendly activities are everywhere, from the gorgeous parks to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. The downtown district provides a variety of shops and restaurants along brick-paved sidewalks, and the river and nearby lakes provide opportunities for boating and fishing. College sports fans head to Williams-Brice Stadium to cheer on the USC Gamecocks, and golfers can enjoy a game at Fort Jackson Golf Club. For camping, kayaking, bicycling, and hiking, nearby Sesquicentennial State Park provides 1,400 wooded acres and a large lake to explore.

Rent Trends

As of December 2024, the average apartment rent in Columbia, SC is $1,051 for a studio, $1,136 for one bedroom, $1,301 for two bedrooms, and $1,586 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Columbia has increased by 2.1% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$1,136/month
737 Sq Ft
House
$1,876/month
1,550 Sq Ft
Condo
$1,422/month
1,032 Sq Ft
Townhome
$1,503/month
1,175 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Columbia, SC

Transportation

45

Car-Dependent

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

This area is considered a car-dependent area and most errands will require a car.

17

Minimal Transit

out of 100 TransitScore® Rating

You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.

38

Somewhat Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

You might be able to find places to ride your bike in this area, but you’ll most likely want your car for most errands.

Schools

Brockman Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

268 Students

9
out of 10

Brennen Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

806 Students

7
out of 10

Rosewood Elementary

Public

Grades K-5

329 Students

7
out of 10

Killian Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

742 Students

6
out of 10

North Springs Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

703 Students

6
out of 10

Crayton Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

905 Students

7
out of 10

Longleaf Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

802 Students

6
out of 10

W. G. Sanders Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

533 Students

6
out of 10

Summit Parkway Middle

Public

Grades K-8

1,154 Students

5
out of 10

Dent Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

1,018 Students

5
out of 10

Spring Valley High

Public

Grades 9-12

2,187 Students

6
out of 10

A. C. Flora High

Public

Grades 9-12

1,352 Students

6
out of 10

Dreher High

Public

Grades 9-12

1,150 Students

6
out of 10

Ridge View High

Public

Grades 9-12

1,711 Students

5
out of 10

W.J. Keenan High

Public

Grades 9-12

725 Students

4
out of 10

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • McKissick Museum
  • Melton Memorial Observatory
  • Sesqui State Park
  • South Carolina State Museum
  • EdVenture Children's Museum

Airports

  • Columbia Metro

Top Apartments in Columbia

Houses for Rent in Columbia

Property Management Companies in Columbia, SC

Living in Columbia

Restaurants

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If you’re ready to paint the town, Columbia definitely has you covered for nightlife and entertainment options. Since Columbia is a college town, there is a wide variety of bars, pubs, and taverns close to the University downtown. The Five Points area is very popular for night life with folks of all ages including the business crowd from downtown. There are also many options to enjoy live music including the Colonial Life Center, the city’s largest concert venue and many smaller music clubs such as the Art Bar.

Shopping

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There is no shortage of great places to shop in Columbia, that’s for sure! You can find just about anything you need or want at Columbia Place Mall with over a hundred stores, restaurants and a movie theater. If unique local shops and trendy restaurants is your thing, Five Points is just the place to be. Conveniently located near the University of SC, the Five Points area has some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment in the city. If you are an antique lover, you will love browsing in all of the local antique malls and shops that are loaded with treasures that have been passed down from generations of Southern families.

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