Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Columbus, GA
Considering a move to Columbus, GA? With a population of just over 205,000, Columbus offers a low cost of living, affordable home prices around $156,000, and average rents near $1,030. Residents enjoy warm Southern weather, short 22-minute commutes, and access to major hospitals and higher education. While crime rates are above national averages, Columbus boasts a vibrant community, 64% sunny days, and a range of public and private school options—making it a great choice for affordability and lifestyle in Georgia.
Demographics - Columbus, GA
Demographics - Columbus, GA
Columbus, Georgia is home to over 205,000 residents, featuring a diverse community where 46.6% identify as Black and 37.6% as White, with a median age of 35. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
205,617
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.0
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
37.6%
Black:
46.6%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
13.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Columbus, GA?
Columbus offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $156,000 and average monthly rents at $1,030. Essentials like groceries and healthcare remain below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-minded individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$156,000
Gross Rent:
$1,030
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,240
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.8
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
60.9
Utilities:
103.3
Transportation:
87.6
Health Care:
92.5
Miscellaneous:
93.7
Crime
Is Columbus, GA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Columbus are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 170 chance of experiencing violent crime and property crime occurring at a rate of 1 in 29. Prospective residents should be aware of these statistics and consider safety when choosing neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
587
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,425
Crime Index:
4,012
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 170
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Columbus, GA year-round?
Residents enjoy a warm climate year-round, with summer highs reaching 92°F and mild winters averaging 60°F. Columbus experiences about 64% sunny days and 48 inches of rainfall annually, ideal for those who appreciate a sunny Southern environment.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Typical household incomes in Columbus hover around $51,300, while the poverty rate is above average at 21.2%. Most residents commute about 22 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is low, reflecting the city’s car-centric lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$51,300
Family Income:
$63,700
Per Capita Income:
$26,300
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$32,200
Poverty Rate:
21.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.3%
Rent:
$1,030
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
21.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.4%
Bachelors or More:
23.7%
Education
How are the schools in Columbus, GA?
Columbus supports a range of educational options including public schools like Columbus High School and Richards Middle School, as well as private institutions such as St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School. Higher education is anchored by Columbus State University, serving nearly 8,000 students in the heart of the city.
Public Schools
Name:
Columbus High School
Street:
1700 Cherokee Ave
Phone:
706-748-2534
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Richards Middle School
Street:
3551 Cummings Rd
Phone:
706-748-3277
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School
Street:
2020 Kay Cir
Phone:
706-561-8232
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
Columbus State University
City:
Columbus
State:
GA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,900
Name:
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
City:
Phenix City
State:
AL
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Columbus provides access to major hospitals like Piedmont Columbus Regional Midtown and St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, ensuring comprehensive medical services. With 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, healthcare is accessible and robust.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Piedmont Columbus Regional Midtown
Address:
710 Center St, Columbus, GA 31901
Phone:
(706) 571-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Francis-Emory Healthcare
Address:
2122 Manchester Expy, Columbus, GA 31904
Phone:
(706) 596-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.6%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Columbus, GA?
The local housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $156,000 and 49.6% owner occupancy. Renters benefit from a healthy selection, as the average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,030 and the rental vacancy rate stands at 10.7%.
Median Home Price:
$156,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,030
Owner Occupied Rate:
49.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.0%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Driver services for Columbus residents are managed by the Georgia Department of Driver Services, conveniently located in Midland. The local office provides licensing and vehicle registration, and more information can be found on the state’s official website.
State:
Georgia
Department:
Georgia Department of Driver Services
Address:
8397 Macon Rd, Midland, GA 31820
Phone:
(678) 413-8400
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.