Columbus, GA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
203,711
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,073/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
92,031
0.8% year-over-year change

Columbus population

How many people live in Columbus

Columbus is home to 203,711 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Columbus locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
203,711
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
98,009
Female
51.9%
105,702
Value Percent YoY change
Male 98,009 48.1% -0.5%
Female 105,702 51.9% -0.2%
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 Columbus is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.9% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29% of the population, while another 22.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.9%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
29%
45 to 64
22.3%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 42,525 20.9% -1.0%
15 to 24 26,529 13% -0.6%
25 to 44 59,112 29% -0.1%
45 to 64 45,453 22.3% -1.5%
Over 65 30,092 14.8% 2.5%
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 Columbus, 91.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 38.1% of locals are Caucasian, 47% are African American and 2.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.9%
Non-citizens
2.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 187,148 91.9% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,074 5.9% 0.2%
Non-citizens 4,489 2.2% -4.8%
Racial breakdown
White
38.1%
Black or African American
47%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.1%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 77,525 38.1%
Black or African American 95,710 47%
American Indian and Alaska Native 355 0.2%
Asian 5,550 2.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 363 0.2%
Two or more races 16,447 8.1%
Other 7,761 3.8%

Households in Columbus

A peek inside Columbus households

Columbus has 81,415 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.9% are families, while the remaining 41.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
81,415
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
33,428
Family households
47,987
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 33,428 41.1% 4.8%
Family households 47,987 58.9% -1.5%
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 Columbus

The housing landscape of Columbus

Columbus's housing consists of 92,031 units, with 65.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
92,031
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 60,431 65.7%
1 unit, attached 2,662 2.9%
2 units 2,239 2.4%
3 or 4 units 6,044 6.6%
5 to 9 units 6,765 7.4%
10 to 19 units 4,719 5.1%
20 to 49 units 2,776 3%
50 or more units 4,831 5.2%
Mobile home 1,472 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 92 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
922
89.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbus

In Columbus, the median construction year is 1978. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,791 6.3% 2.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 4,997 5.4% 1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10,924 11.9% 0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 13,230 14.4% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,745 14.9% -3.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,927 11.9% 1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10,068 10.9% -9.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,771 15% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 7,656 8.3% 9.4%
Built in 2020 or later 922 1% 89.3%
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.

Columbus occupancy rates

Out of the 81,415 occupied housing units in Columbus, 50.8% are owner-occupied, while 49.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
81,415
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
40,025
Owner occupied
41,390
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 40,025 49.2% -0.2%
Owner occupied 41,390 50.8% 2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
11.5%
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.

Columbus housing costs

Housing costs in Columbus come to a median of $1,095 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,106.

Median housing costs per month
$1,095/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 Columbus
$1,106/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 Columbus

Columbus education at a glance

About 36.3% of the population in Columbus went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 17.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,085 3.3% -4.5%
High school diploma 55,528 36.3% 0.2%
College diploma 35,553 23.2% -3.2%
Associate degree 13,352 8.7% -2.2%
Bachelor's degree 26,761 17.5% 4.3%
Graduate degree 16,642 10.9% 1.0%
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 Columbus

How much people earn in Columbus

The average annual household income in Columbus was $80,998 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,073, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbus
$80,998/year
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbus
$58,073/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Columbus income by age

In Columbus, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,323. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,738 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $42,765, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,446 in earnings. Overall, 80.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $42,765 12.2%
25 - 44 $60,323 1.8%
45 - 64 $68,738 1.4%
Over 65 $42,446 -0.3%
Above poverty level
158,552
Below poverty level
37,367
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 158,552 80.9% -0.8%
Below poverty level 37,367 19.1% 1.1%

Average renter income in Columbus

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbus, their median household income was $41,396 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,396
Rent-to-income ratio
32.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Columbus

Workforce and job types in Columbus

The job market in Columbus is powered by 83,959 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 64.5% are employed by private companies, and 19.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
83,959
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
66,783
Blue collar
17,176
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 66,783 79.5% 0.9%
Blue collar 17,176 20.5% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
64.5%
Governmental workers
19.9%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,716 8% 7.4%
Private companies 54,128 64.5% -0.9%
Governmental workers 16,733 19.9% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 6,382 7.6% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
-2.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbus stands at 6.3%, 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 Columbus

How people get around in Columbus

Commuting methods vary: 83.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% 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 73,605 83.1% -2.6%
Taxicab 260 0.3% -18.2%
Bus or trolleybus 752 0.8% 12.6%
Subway or elevated 7 0% N/A
Ferryboat 7 0% -58.8%
Motorcycle 173 0.2% 39.5%
Bicycle 262 0.3% -7.1%
Walk 1,544 1.7% -12.7%
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 Columbus by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
31901 5,841 3,079 $51,424 $67,476
31903 20,644 7,982 $32,401 $43,417
31904 35,405 14,416 $66,291 $97,895
31906 20,400 8,770 $44,965 $67,087
31907 59,110 23,419 $54,453 $69,901
31909 39,364 16,559 $69,166 $93,268

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FAQs about Columbus demographics 

What is the total population of Columbus?

Columbus has a total population of 203,711 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbus?

The gender ratio in Columbus is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (98,009 residents)
  • 51.9% females (105,702 residents)

What is the median age in Columbus?

The median age in Columbus is 35.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbus?

The age distribution in Columbus is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.9% (42,525 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (26,529 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29% (59,112 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.3% (45,453 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (30,092 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbus is as follows:
  • White: 38.1% (77,525 residents)
  • Black or African American: 47% (95,710 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (355 residents)
  • Asian: 2.7% (5,550 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (363 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.1% (16,447 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (7,761 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.9% of the population in Columbus.

How many housing units are there in Columbus?

There are 92,031 housing units in Columbus, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Columbus has a total of 81,415 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbus?

Columbus has a median household income of $58,073, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Columbus, with a workforce of 83,959 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.5% (66,783 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.5% (17,176 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (6,716 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.5% (54,128 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.9% (16,733 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (6,382 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