Columbia, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
104,338
-1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$131,490/yr
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
43,280
-0.1% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 104,338 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Columbia locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
104,338
-1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
50,504
Female
51.6%
53,834
Value Percent YoY change
Male 50,504 48.4% -1.0%
Female 53,834 51.6% -1.8%
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 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 24.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
24.5%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,144 17.4% -0.8%
15 to 24 12,745 12.2% -4.9%
25 to 44 29,884 28.6% -0.8%
45 to 64 25,523 24.5% -4.6%
Over 65 18,042 17.3% 4.2%
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, 76.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 16.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.3% of locals are Caucasian, 28.7% are African American and 11.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
16.2%
Non-citizens
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 79,815 76.5% -1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 16,864 16.2% 3.1%
Non-citizens 7,659 7.3% -6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
43.3%
Black or African American
28.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
11.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.2%
Other
4.6%
Value Percent
White 45,209 43.3%
Black or African American 29,940 28.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 267 0.3%
Asian 12,363 11.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 41 0%
Two or more races 11,739 11.2%
Other 4,779 4.6%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 41,143 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.6% are families, while the remaining 33.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
41,143
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
13,731
Family households
27,412
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 13,731 33.4% 1.6%
Family households 27,412 66.6% -1.1%
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 43,280 units, with 39.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 25.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
43,280
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,080 39.5%
1 unit, attached 10,993 25.4%
2 units 103 0.2%
3 or 4 units 722 1.7%
5 to 9 units 3,070 7.1%
10 to 19 units 6,194 14.3%
20 to 49 units 1,048 2.4%
50 or more units 3,987 9.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 83 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
313
72.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1983. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 352 0.8% -5.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 81 0.2% 2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 574 1.3% -14.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,905 9% 10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,637 31.5% -0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,107 25.7% -7.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,367 17% 4.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,189 7.4% 1.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,755 6.4% 8.2%
Built in 2020 or later 313 0.7% 72.9%
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 41,143 occupied housing units in Columbia, 64.8% are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
41,143
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,478
Owner occupied
26,665
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,478 35.2% 0.1%
Owner occupied 26,665 64.8% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
4.9%
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 $2,162 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,042.

Median housing costs per month
$2,162/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
$2,042/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 16.5% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 15% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 27.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 31.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,148 2.6% 5.2%
High school diploma 13,570 16.5% -1.7%
College diploma 12,372 15% -2.0%
Associate degree 5,504 6.7% -1.8%
Bachelor's degree 22,934 27.8% -3.2%
Graduate degree 25,879 31.4% 0.3%
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 $159,116 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $131,490, reflecting a +1.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia
$159,116/year
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$131,490/year
1.8% 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 $129,973. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $158,646 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $81,378, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $108,071 in earnings. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $81,378 -12.9%
25 - 44 $129,973 4.3%
45 - 64 $158,646 -1.2%
Over 65 $108,071 3.4%
Above poverty level
94,822
Below poverty level
7,690
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 94,822 92.5% -1.8%
Below poverty level 7,690 7.5% -0.6%

Average renter income in Columbia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbia, their median household income was $87,181 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$87,181
Rent-to-income ratio
28.1%
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 Columbia

Workforce and job types in Columbia

The job market in Columbia is powered by 56,223 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 92.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 54.2% are employed by private companies, and 24.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
56,223
-1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
51,904
Blue collar
4,319
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 51,904 92.3% -1.9%
Blue collar 4,319 7.7% 1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
54.2%
Governmental workers
24.6%
Not for profit companies
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,663 8.3% -4.6%
Private companies 30,491 54.2% -2.8%
Governmental workers 13,850 24.6% 1.1%
Not for profit companies 7,219 12.8% 0.7%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-8.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia stands at 4.2%, 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

In Columbia, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 39,446 70.6% -2.7%
Taxicab 92 0.2% -64.6%
Bus or trolleybus 769 1.4% -38.5%
Subway or elevated 98 0.2% N/A
Railroad 230 0.4% -10.5%
Motorcycle 33 0.1% 120.0%
Bicycle 30 0% 15.4%
Walk 822 1.5% -7.8%
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
21044 44,114 18,293 $135,057 $162,075
21045 40,034 15,414 $118,563 $142,128
21046 15,608 6,165 $127,813 $152,547

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FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 104,338 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 -1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (50,504 residents)
  • 51.6% females (53,834 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 39.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (18,144 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (12,745 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (29,884 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.5% (25,523 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (18,042 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 43.3% (45,209 residents)
  • Black or African American: 28.7% (29,940 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (267 residents)
  • Asian: 11.8% (12,363 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (41 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.2% (11,739 residents)
  • Other: 4.6% (4,779 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.5% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 43,280 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a -0.1% 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 41,143 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $131,490, representing a +1.8% 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 95.8% in Columbia, with a workforce of 56,223 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 92.3% (51,904 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7.7% (4,319 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (4,663 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.2% (30,491 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.6% (13,850 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.8% (7,219 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