UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Columbia, MD is the #24 Best City to Live in the USA
| Columbia, MD Quality of Life Liv Score 636 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 66 |
| Demographics | 82 |
| Economy | 67 |
| Education | 56 |
| Health | 61 |
| Housing | 58 |
| Infrastructure | 51 |
| Amenities | 36 |
Why Columbia is one of the best cities to live in
Nestled between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., (what some might call the perfect location), Columbia, MD, is a unique city with a blossoming downtown, tantalizingly good cuisine and an arts scene that punches high above its weight class. The Columbia Festival of the Arts (think concerts, exhibits, workshops and more) adds a burst of creativity to the city each year, while live music and public art can be enjoyed year-round.
Also, making Columbia one of the best places to live in the U.S.? The city is highly committed to diversity and inclusion and boasts a more racially diverse population than America as a whole. Here, everyone can find their niche, especially when it comes to a rewarding career. Providing jobs are more than 2,500 small and large businesses, over 50 nonprofits and the U.S. Department of Defense. And when it comes to staying active, the area’s nonprofit community services corporation, Columbia Association, offers a variety of classes, workshops and facilities to stay happy and healthy, including sports leagues, golf, martial arts and more.
A few major employers include Howard County General Hospital and Howard Community College. Some of the other major industries in the area are health care, research and development, and telecommunications.
Howard Community College
Residents are met with chilly winters, warm springs, moderately hot summers and enjoyable autumns.
Walk, run or bike the Elkhorn Branch Trail.
Columbia, MD is Remote Ready
Columbia is an ideal location for the hybrid worker. The city’s conveniently located near both Baltimore and Washington D.C., so employees can reap the benefits of its neighbors and quick commute into the office when needed. In addition, Columbia residents can get more bang for their buck when it comes to renting, so the ever-elusive idea of a home office is entirely possible.
What Locals Love in Columbia, MD
Second Edition Books offers a wide selection of new and used favorites.
The Mall in Columbia is the perfect place to shop and dine. Or, if you’re looking to spend time outdoors, spend the day exploring the 18 acres of Robinson Nature Center, then catch a show at the center’s full-dome planetarium or head to Merriweather Post Pavilion for an outdoor concert.
Explore the Howard County Farmers Market (open May through November). You’ll love the local finds and live music.
Savor some tacos and a beer at Ale House Columbia.
Each year, the Columbia Festival of the Arts hosts a free, three-day outdoor festival called LakeFest, featuring musical acts, art performances, food and more.
A unique downtown, a thriving arts scene and a diverse population make Columbia a best place to live in Maryland.
Thinking of Moving to Columbia?
Columbia, MD real estate is an affordable gold mine in the D.C. metro area. Homes for sale in Columbia, MD are about $200K less than what you’ll find in nearly any other suburb of D.C. Because of this, real estate agents are selling Columbia homes within 6 days after listing on average. Check out the Kings Contrivance neighborhood if you’re looking for high end housing with safe, jogger-friendly streets.
Quick Facts About Columbia, MD
- Average Commute
- 22.72
- Median Home Value
- $455,220
- Med. Household Income
- $113,934
- Total Population
- 106,498
- Walk Score
- 30
- Median Property Tax
- $3,633
