Columbia, MD


28 Reviews



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Columbia, MD

About Columbia, MD

Columbia, Maryland is a vibrant city located in Howard County. From its lush green parks to its many cultural attractions, Columbia has something for everyone! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Tribble Mill Park or take in some culture at sites like the Robinson Nature Center. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like The Mall in Columbia or the Banneker Historical Park. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Quarry Lake Restaurant & Bar or Bob Evans. With so much to offer, Columbia is an ideal destination for a memorable experience! Large city - East-central Maryland along Chesapeake Bay, 40 miles northeast of Washington, D.C..

Location Details

State: Maryland
County: Howard County
Metro Area: Baltimore-Columbia-Towson Metro Area
City: Columbia
Zip Codes: 21044 21045 21046 21029
Cost of Living: 27.9% higher
Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Elevation: 32 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Columbia

The Baltimore, MD metro area is steeped in history. It was founded back in the 17th century and has played major roles in the American Revolution and the War of 1812. Over time, Baltimore became known for its port, which was one of the busiest for shipping and manufacturing in the 19th century.

Geographically, Baltimore sits along the Chesapeake Bay in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. This area is marked by its beautiful waterfront views, rolling hills, forests, and a mix of urban and suburban settings. The climate here features hot and humid summers, mild springs and autumns, and cold winters with some snowfall.

The economy of Baltimore is diverse and strong, with sectors like healthcare, education, finance, technology, and manufacturing leading the way. Prestigious institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland are based here, contributing to a skilled workforce and innovation. The Port of Baltimore remains a significant economic driver, supporting trade and transportation.

When it comes to politics, the Baltimore metro area tends to lean towards the Democratic Party. It has a tradition of supporting Democratic candidates in local, state, and national elections, though there is a mix of political affiliations throughout the region.

Living in Baltimore offers both urban and suburban experiences. The city boasts a lively arts and cultural scene with many museums, theaters, and music venues. There's also plenty of recreational activities, from boating on the Chesapeake Bay to exploring parks and attending professional sports games. The Inner Harbor area is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

New residents should be aware of the challenges that come with city living, including higher crime rates in certain areas. It's important to research neighborhoods and choose one that aligns with your preferences and safety concerns. Additionally, while the cost of living in Baltimore is generally lower than other major East Coast cities, expenses can vary depending on the neighborhood. Traffic congestion can also be an issue, so considering public transportation options might be beneficial.

In summary, the Baltimore metro area offers a unique blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and economic vitality. Newcomers will find a community that values its past while looking forward to the future. Despite its challenges, Baltimore provides a range of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities that make it a rewarding place to live.

Columbia Cost of Living
$$$$

Arts and culture, attractive suburbs, and historic preservation make Columbia a great place to live.

$441,800
+23.5% higher than avg
$113,592
+39.2% higher than avg
$1,860 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
+38.3% higher than avg
Columbia Crime
49.2 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Columbia, Maryland
$84,600
for a family
$65,600
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Columbia
   Arts and culture
Long commutes
   Attractive suburbs
Growth and sprawl
   Historic preservation
Violent crime rate
Reviews for Columbia
    See all (28)

Over 4 years ago

Lived here for a while, beautiful opportunities, pays well, overall nice  More

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Been here 30 years was great at first but once they added a transit bus from baltimore to columbia 15-18 years ago that was the beginning of the end. And about 5 years  More

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Columbia can be described in one word: unequal. The neighborhood I live in, River Hill, is jam-packed with almost million-dollar homes, while the neighborhoods of Long  More

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