Columbia, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
785
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$62,000/yr
11.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
353
-1.4% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 785 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.3% of Columbia locals are male, and 52.7% are female.

Total population
785
2.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.3%
371
Female
52.7%
414
Value Percent YoY change
Male 371 47.3% -1.6%
Female 414 52.7% 5.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Columbia is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 29.2% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
29.2%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
15.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 229 29.2% 2.2%
15 to 24 75 9.6% 2.7%
25 to 44 195 24.8% -1.0%
45 to 64 163 20.8% 19.9%
Over 65 123 15.7% -11.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Columbia, 99.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 3.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 779 99.2% 2.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6 0.8% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
86.2%
Black or African American
10.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 677 86.2%
Black or African American 82 10.4%
Two or more races 26 3.3%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 306 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 57.8% are families, while the remaining 42.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
306
1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
129
Family households
177
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 129 42.2% -2.3%
Family households 177 57.8% 4.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Columbia

The housing landscape of Columbia

Columbia's housing consists of 353 units, with 65.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 23.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
353
-1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 232 65.7%
2 units 18 5.1%
3 or 4 units 16 4.5%
Mobile home 84 23.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1974. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 33 9.4% 0.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 14 4% 16.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 53 15% 29.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 66 18.7% -32.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 27 7.6% 35.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 22 6.2% 120.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 76 21.5% -14.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 56 15.9% 3.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6 1.7% 200.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Columbia occupancy rates

Out of the 306 occupied housing units in Columbia, 77.8% are owner-occupied, while 22.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
306
1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
68
Owner occupied
238
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 68 22.2% 7.9%
Owner occupied 238 77.8% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Columbia housing costs

Housing costs in Columbia come to a median of $750 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $760.

Median housing costs per month
$750/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Columbia
$760/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Columbia

Columbia education at a glance

About 66.2% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 15.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 2.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 16 3.1% 77.8%
High school diploma 341 66.2% -0.6%
College diploma 79 15.3% 0.0%
Associate degree 49 9.5% 19.5%
Bachelor's degree 15 2.9% 7.1%
Graduate degree 15 2.9% 15.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Columbia

How much people earn in Columbia

The average annual household income in Columbia was $72,628 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $62,000, reflecting a +11.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia
$72,628/year
9.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$62,000/year
11.9% year-over-year change

Columbia income by age

In Columbia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $140,288. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,167 overall. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $140,288 3.8%
45 - 64 $49,167 3.5%
Over 65 $39,375 0.7%
Above poverty level
689
Below poverty level
93
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 689 88.1% 1.9%
Below poverty level 93 11.9% 3.3%

Employment in Columbia

Workforce and job types in Columbia

The job market in Columbia is powered by 302 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 28.8% run their own businesses, 55% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
302
7.1% year-over-year change
White collar
214
Blue collar
88
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 214 70.9% 7.0%
Blue collar 88 29.1% 7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
28.8%
Private companies
55%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 87 28.8% 11.5%
Private companies 166 55% 2.5%
Governmental workers 35 11.6% 34.6%
Not for profit companies 14 4.6% -12.5%
Unemployment rate
8.2%
35.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia stands at 8.2%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Columbia

How people get around in Columbia

Commuting methods vary: 97.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 292 97.3% 9.0%
Walk 1 0.3% -80.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Columbia by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36319 2,477 963 $62,159 $73,003

Explore more communities

FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 785 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +2.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 47.3% males (371 residents)
  • 52.7% females (414 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 32.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 29.2% (229 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (75 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (195 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (163 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.7% (123 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 86.2% (677 residents)
  • Black or African American: 10.4% (82 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.3% (26 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

What percentage of the population in Columbia are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.2% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 353 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a -1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Columbia and what is the average household size?

Columbia has a total of 306 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $62,000, representing a +11.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Columbia?

The employment rate is 91.8% in Columbia, with a workforce of 302 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.9% (214 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.1% (88 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 28.8% (87 residents)
  • Private companies: 55% (166 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (35 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.6% (14 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025