Is Columbia, SC, a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Calling Columbia Your Home

Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. As the state capital, it’s a bustling city that’s home to several colleges and universities, making it a vibrant and diverse community. But, like any place, there are pros and cons to living in Columbia. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor looking into the Columbia housing market, this city has a whole heap of perks that more than make up for any downsides. 

In this Redfin article, we’ll weigh the advantages against the disadvantages to calling South Carolina’s capital your new home.

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Quick Facts about Columbia

1. Pro: Affordability

Columbia, South Carolina stands out as an affordable city to reside in. First, the cost of living in Columbia is 8% lower than the national average, providing residents with a favorable financial situation. Additionally, the median sale price in Columbia is $255,000, significantly below the national median of $442,451. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment in Columbia or buy a home, you’ll find that doing so in this city is relatively affordable compared to the rest of the country.  Furthermore, Columbia’s cost of living is 7% lower than both Charleston, SC, highlighting the city’s overall affordability in comparison to its neighboring regions.

2. Con: Humidity

While the mild climate in Columbia is generally a plus, there is one major downside: the sticky, humid summers. For some folks, the humidity is no big deal, and they can handle a little bit of sweat and frizzy hair. But for others, the humidity can be downright unbearable, turning a leisurely stroll through the park into a sauna-like experience. Locals have all sorts of tips and tricks for surviving the summer months, from carrying a personal fan to avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. And let’s not forget about the dreaded “humidity hair” – that puffy, frizzy look that seems to defy all attempts at taming. So, if you’re planning to make Columbia your home, just be prepared for a little extra moisture in the air and maybe invest in a good leave-in conditioner.

3. Pro: Southern charm

Columbia is known for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which is a significant draw for many residents. The city has a strong sense of community, with residents taking pride in their hometown and working together to make it a great place to live. An excellent example of this is the Soda City Market, which takes place every Saturday morning in downtown Columbia. It’s a farmers market, craft fair, and community gathering all in one, where locals come together to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts, and to catch up with their neighbors. The market is a great way to experience Columbia’s Southern charm firsthand, and it’s a beloved local tradition.

4. Con: Mosquitos 

Before you move to Columbia just know you’ll be in a constant battle with the state bird: the mosquito. While these pesky insects are not unique to Columbia, they do seem to have a particular affinity for the area’s warm and humid climate. As a result, locals have become experts at mosquito avoidance techniques, from slathering on bug spray to strategically positioning citronella candles around their yards. If there is any relief, mosquitos there tend to come swarming in seasons, so no worries because it won’t last forever. Be prepared to make friends with some itchy bumps and invest in plenty of insect repellent.

5. Pro: Mild climate 

Columbia’s climate is another advantage for those looking to live in a comfortable year-round environment. The city has a humid subtropical climate, which means hot summers and cool winters. However, the temperatures rarely reach extreme levels, with the hottest month, July, averaging a high of around 92 degrees Fahrenheit and the coldest month, January, averaging a low of around 36 degrees Fahrenheit. This mild climate allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking and biking in the spring and fall to boating and swimming in the summer.

6. Con: Limited nightlife 

While there are certainly bars and clubs in the area, the scene may not be as extensive or diverse. Some visitors or new residents may find that the options for after-hours entertainment can feel limited, especially if they are used to a more vibrant nightlife. Part of the reason for this may be the size of the city. 

That being said, Columbia still has plenty to offer for those looking to enjoy a night out on the town. The city has a number of popular bars and nightclubs, and there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes that stay open late, as well as outdoor parks and venues that host events and concerts throughout the year. While it may not offer the same level of nightlife options as some larger cities, Columbia can still be a fun and enjoyable place to spend an evening with friends or loved ones.

7. Pro: Rich history 

Columbia has a rich and fascinating history, with many landmarks and sites to explore. The South Carolina State House is a magnificent building that has been the seat of the state government since 1786. It’s open to the public for tours, and visitors can see historic documents, paintings, and sculptures. The Columbia Museum of Art is another great example of the city’s history, with a collection that spans centuries of European and American art, as well as modern and contemporary works. Finally, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural history of the area, featuring over 2,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species.

8. Con: Limited transportation

Columbia’s transportation options can be a challenge for those without access to a car, with a Walk Score of 35 out of 100, a Transit Score of 0 out of 100, and a Bike Score of 35 out of 100. While the city does have some public transportation options, such as buses and shuttles, the system may not be as comprehensive or efficient as in other cities, making it difficult for those who rely on public transportation to get around the city. Additionally, Finding parking in certain parts of Columbia can be challenging because the infrastructure may not be as developed or extensive as in other areas.

9. Pro: Great food 

Columbia is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, which is a highlight for foodies and casual diners alike. Barbecue is a particular specialty, with local spots like Southern Belly BBQ and Doc’s Barbecue serving up mouth-watering pulled pork and brisket. Seafood is another popular option, with restaurants like Blue Marlin and Pearlz Oyster Bar offering fresh and flavorful dishes. For something sweet, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles is a local favorite, with its famous chicken and waffles combo and delicious sweet potato pie. Overall, there’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Columbia, and residents can easily explore a variety of cuisines and styles.

10. Con: Hurricane seasons

One potential drawback to living in Columbia is the risk of hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November. While Columbia is not located directly on the coast, it’s still vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and power outages. In the past, the city has experienced damage from hurricanes and tropical storms, such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Tropical Storm Michael in 2018. While residents can take precautions to prepare for a hurricane, the risk of property damage and potential evacuation can be a concern for some.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.

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