What is the weather like in Columbia?

Residents are treated to all four seasons in Columbia, with hot summers, cold winters, spring showers and fall colors. The average highs and lows are 85°F and 61°F (summer) and 45°F and 24°F (winter).

Does Columbia get a lot of snow?

Annual snowfall in Columbia averages 18 inches per year. The coldest month is typically January, with an average low temperature of around 23°.

Does Columbia get a lot of rain?

The average annual rainfall in Columbia is 44 inches of rain each year. The wettest months are usually July and August.

How many sunny days does Columbia get?

Columbia averages 206 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Columbia?

Kayak, canoe or paddleboat on Lake Kittamaqundi. Or, if you want to stay on dry land, walk, run or bike the 3.4-mile Elkhorn Branch Trail.

What is something free to do for fun in Columbia?

Explore the Howard County Farmers Market (open May through November). You’ll love the local finds and live music.

What are some fun things to do with kids in Columbia?

Visit the Robinson Nature Center , which aims to connect people with nature. You’ll find a children’s discovery room, a digital planetarium and a bunch of educational exhibits.

What is the best open secret about Columbia?

Appropriately known as the "Columbia Pathways," Columbia's extensive network of interconnected pathways is one of the best-kept secrets about the city. The city already has a reputation for thoughtful urban planning, but the Columbia Pathways add an extra layer of charm, convenience and scenery ripe with parks, meadows and lakes. Several locals utilize these trails for walking, jogging and biking.

Where do locals shop in Columbia?

Columbia locals often haunt the Mall of Columbia, a high-end shopping destination with more than 200 shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods.

What is a fun restaurant in Columbia?

Try 18th and 21st , with a speakeasy feel, live music and modern riffs on classic cocktails (like a lavender Bee's Knees).

Where is the best place for live music or performing arts in Columbia?

Looking for a place to catch a concert or enjoy a show? Merriweather Post Pavilion is Columbia's best spot for live music and performing arts. This iconic outdoor amphitheater, nestled in Symphony Woods, opened in the 1960s and has entertained residents with live performances ever since.

What is the best coffee shop in Columbia?

Start your day off at Roggenart , where you can pair your espresso with a Reese’s peanut butter croissant.

What are the three largest industries in Columbia?

Because of the city's close proximity to Washington, D.C., the major industries in Columbia include government and defense, health care and IT.

What is the sales tax rate in Columbia?

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Columbia is 6%.

Does Maryland have a state income tax?

Yes, Maryland has a state income tax.

Who are the major health care providers in Columbia?

Howard County General Hospital is part of the Johns Hopkins Medicine System and one of Columbia's largest employers and health care providers. Residents also have access to several other wellness networks, including MedStar Health, Kaiser Permanente and LifeBridge Health.

What colleges and universities are in Columbia?

Howard Community College is located in Columbia.

Columbia, MD Ranks Among the Best Places to Live in the U.S. 2023

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Columbia, MD

Why You’ll Love Living in Columbia, Maryland

Ten self-contained villages comprise the city of Columbia, Maryland, founded in 1967, which gives Columbia a small-town feel even though its population has surpassed 100,000. Amenities include three lakes, 80 miles of interconnected pathways and high-end shopping destination The Mall in Columbia. With a median family income of $114,000, Columbia is one of the wealthiest cities in America. Federal government and research-related jobs play big roles in the local economy because Columbia is only 30 miles from Washington, D.C.

Thinking of moving to Columbia, MD? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Columbia, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Columbia, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.

Is Columbia, MD a good place to live? Thanks to high scores for its education, transportation and economy, Columbia ranked among Livability’s Best Places to Live in the U.S. for 2023.