Columbia, MO demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
128,548
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,498/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
56,054
1.1% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 128,548 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.1% of Columbia locals are male, and 51.9% are female.

Total population
128,548
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.1%
61,853
Female
51.9%
66,695
Value Percent YoY change
Male 61,853 48.1% 1.2%
Female 66,695 51.9% 1.0%
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 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 27.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 17.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
27.2%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
17.7%
Over 65
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 20,130 15.7% -1.4%
15 to 24 35,010 27.2% 1.4%
25 to 44 35,781 27.8% 1.1%
45 to 64 22,744 17.7% 1.2%
Over 65 14,883 11.6% 3.3%
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, 91% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73.2% of locals are Caucasian, 12.2% are African American and 6.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 117,023 91% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,381 5% 13.0%
Non-citizens 5,144 4% -13.7%
Racial breakdown
White
73.2%
Black or African American
12.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.9%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 94,082 73.2%
Black or African American 15,705 12.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 87 0.1%
Asian 8,165 6.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 100 0.1%
Two or more races 8,913 6.9%
Other 1,496 1.2%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 52,564 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 49.2% are families, while the remaining 50.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
52,564
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
26,678
Family households
25,886
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 26,678 50.8% 4.7%
Family households 25,886 49.2% -0.0%
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 56,054 units, with 53% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.3% 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 1.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
56,054
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 29,684 53%
1 unit, attached 3,540 6.3%
2 units 3,477 6.2%
3 or 4 units 3,104 5.5%
5 to 9 units 5,169 9.2%
10 to 19 units 4,211 7.5%
20 to 49 units 2,175 3.9%
50 or more units 3,849 6.9%
Mobile home 845 1.5%
Homes built since 2020
892
96.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1993. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,455 4.4% -10.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,393 2.5% 5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,569 4.6% 2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,612 10% -1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,788 10.3% 5.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,259 13% 6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,103 16.2% -3.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 11,082 19.8% -1.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,901 17.7% 1.8%
Built in 2020 or later 892 1.6% 96.0%
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 52,564 occupied housing units in Columbia, 48.7% are owner-occupied, while 51.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
52,564
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
26,972
Owner occupied
25,592
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 26,972 51.3% 3.7%
Owner occupied 25,592 48.7% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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 $1,135 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,097.

Median housing costs per month
$1,135/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
$1,097/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 19.4% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 29.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.2% earned an associate degree and 24.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 19% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,627 1.6% -4.4%
High school diploma 20,298 19.4% 3.6%
College diploma 30,622 29.3% -1.0%
Associate degree 6,454 6.2% 5.0%
Bachelor's degree 25,564 24.5% 1.5%
Graduate degree 19,892 19% 3.0%
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 Columbia

How much people earn in Columbia

The average annual household income in Columbia was $95,405 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,498, reflecting a +3.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia
$95,405/year
4.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$66,498/year
3.1% 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 $73,681. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,514 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $27,801, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,506 in earnings. Overall, 80.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $27,801 9.4%
25 - 44 $73,681 2.2%
45 - 64 $99,514 3.7%
Over 65 $60,506 1.9%
Above poverty level
94,453
Below poverty level
22,736
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 94,453 80.6% 1.9%
Below poverty level 22,736 19.4% -2.2%

Average renter income in Columbia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbia, their median household income was $36,150 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,150
Rent-to-income ratio
36.4%
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 67,846 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 58.1% are employed by private companies, and 23.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
67,846
2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
59,625
Blue collar
8,221
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 59,625 87.9% 2.6%
Blue collar 8,221 12.1% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
58.1%
Governmental workers
23.6%
Not for profit companies
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,765 7% 3.6%
Private companies 39,428 58.1% 1.3%
Governmental workers 15,997 23.6% -0.5%
Not for profit companies 7,656 11.3% 13.5%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
5.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia stands at 4%, 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: 81.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.4% 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 54,488 81.5% 1.8%
Taxicab 133 0.2% 25.5%
Bus or trolleybus 795 1.2% 5.6%
Railroad 22 0% -12.0%
Motorcycle 109 0.2% -6.0%
Bicycle 498 0.7% -26.7%
Walk 3,635 5.4% -1.1%
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
65201 50,011 19,478 $48,113 $74,804
65202 47,327 19,258 $72,289 $90,239
65203 61,539 26,322 $79,960 $120,515
65215 225 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 128,548 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 48.1% males (61,853 residents)
  • 51.9% females (66,695 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 29.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (20,130 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 27.2% (35,010 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (35,781 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.7% (22,744 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.6% (14,883 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 73.2% (94,082 residents)
  • Black or African American: 12.2% (15,705 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (87 residents)
  • Asian: 6.4% (8,165 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (100 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.9% (8,913 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (1,496 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 56,054 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a +1.1% 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 52,564 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $66,498, representing a +3.1% 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 96% in Columbia, with a workforce of 67,846 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.9% (59,625 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.1% (8,221 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (4,765 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.1% (39,428 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.6% (15,997 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.3% (7,656 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