Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Columbia, MO
Considering a move to Columbia, MO? Home to about 128,555 residents, Columbia offers an affordable lifestyle with a median home price of $255,000 and average rent around $1,120. Commute times are short (just 17 minutes on average), and the city shines with top-tier education options including the University of Missouri and a high rate of college graduates. While crime rates are higher than average, residents enjoy over 57% sunny days, a lively college-town vibe, and excellent healthcare access, making Columbia a vibrant and budget-friendly choice.
Demographics - Columbia, MO
Demographics - Columbia, MO
Columbia, MO is a dynamic city of approximately 128,555 residents, with a youthful median age of 28.6 years and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, but the city also features a notable Black and Asian community, and nearly 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and diversity contribute to a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
128,555
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
28.6
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
73.3%
Black:
10.9%
Asian:
6.4%
Others:
9.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Columbia, MO?
Columbia offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $255,000 and average rent around $1,120 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making the city especially attractive for homebuyers and renters alike. Utility and everyday expenses remain manageable, supporting a comfortable lifestyle for residents.
Median House Value:
$255,000
Gross Rent:
$1,120
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,390
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,610
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$560
State Taxes:
Low:
1.5%
|
High:
5.4%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
72.4
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
95.5
Crime
Is Columbia, MO a safe place to live?
While Columbia boasts a vibrant community, its crime rates are higher than the national average, with a resident's chance of experiencing property crime at about 1 in 34. Violent crime occurs at a rate of 496 incidents per 100,000 people, though most neighborhoods remain safe and proactive policing helps maintain public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay aware and take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
496
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,962
Crime Index:
3,458
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 202
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Columbia, MO year-round?
Columbia experiences all four seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 21°F, warm summers peaking near 88°F, and mild spring and fall temperatures. The city enjoys about 57% sunny days annually and receives an average of 42.5 inches of rainfall, offering a balanced climate ideal for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring a variety of recreational opportunities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
40°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Residents of Columbia enjoy a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $57,800 and a low unemployment rate of 2.7%. The city is highly educated, as over half of adults have a bachelor's degree or higher, and commute times average just 17 minutes. While the poverty rate stands at 19.4%, the city remains inclusive and culturally diverse, with nearly 9% non-English speakers.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$82,400
Per Capita Income:
$32,800
Income Male:
$43,900
Income Female:
$36,700
Poverty Rate:
19.4%
Non English Speakers:
8.7%
Rent:
$1,120
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.8%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.4%
Bachelors or More:
54.3%
Education
How are the schools in Columbia, MO?
Education in Columbia is a standout, with highly rated public and private schools and a strong emphasis on academic achievement. The city is home to the University of Missouri-Columbia, along with several other colleges, making it a hub for higher education and lifelong learning. Families benefit from quality K-12 options, competitive student-teacher ratios, and a vibrant academic community.

Public Schools
Name:
Rock Bridge High School
Street:
4303 S Providence Rd
Phone:
573-214-3100
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Gentry Middle School
Street:
4200 Bethel St
Phone:
573-214-3240
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9

Private Schools
Name:
Christian Fellowship School
Street:
4600 Christian Fellowship Road
Phone:
573-445-8565
Students:
330

Colleges
Name:
University of Missouri-Columbia
City:
Columbia
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
31,000
Name:
Columbia College
City:
Columbia
State:
MO
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,000
Healthcare
Columbia is well-served by major medical centers, including University of Missouri Health Care and Boone Hospital Center, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive care and emergency services. With 3.1 physicians per 1,000 people and a health insurance coverage rate of over 90%, healthcare access is strong in the city. The healthcare index reflects overall quality and availability for families and individuals alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
University of Missouri Health Care – University Hospital
Address:
1 Hospital Dr, Columbia, MO 65212
Phone:
(573) 882-4141
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Boone Hospital Center
Address:
1600 E Broadway, Columbia, MO 65201
Phone:
(573) 815-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.7%
Health Care Index:
78.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Columbia, MO?
The housing market in Columbia is accessible, with a median home price of $255,000 and strong rental options averaging $1,120 for a two-bedroom. About 47% of residents own their homes, while the city maintains a healthy rental vacancy rate, making it easy to find both rental and purchase opportunities. Home values have appreciated nearly 5% in the past year, signaling a stable and growing market.
Median Home Price:
$255,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,120
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.5%
DMV Information
Columbia residents can handle vehicle and driver services through the Missouri Department of Revenue, located in nearby Jefferson City. The department offers convenient online resources and assistance via phone to support licensing, registration, and other DMV needs. Access to these services helps streamline relocation and daily life for newcomers.
State:
Missouri
Department:
Missouri Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle & Driver Licensing Division
Address:
301 West High Street, Room 370, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone:
573-526-3669
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.