About Columbia, MO

Columbia - A Great Place to Live

Columbia is located in northern central Missouri and has a population of 96,700. Columbia was founded in 1818 by a group of settlers and was originally called Smithton. But in 1821, due to lack or water, they were forced to move across the Flat Branch and Hinkson creeks to what is now the downtown area of Columbia.

Attractions - Things to See in Columbia

Columbia has been nicknamed “College Town USA” because of its many 4-year and community colleges in the area. These colleges include Stephens College and Columbia College. Columbia is consistently ranked as one of the top cities to live for safety, educational facilities, high quality health care, technological savvy, economic growth, cultural opportunities and cost of living.

Apartment Rentals and Average Rents

Because of the city's average cost of living, Columbia apartments are very affordable. Average prices for apartments in the area are as follows: 1 bedroom apartments average $470, while 2 bedroom apartments average to around $1200. The average cost for apartments in the city area is $650, which is slightly above the national average.