Columbia, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
759
12.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$25,893/yr
22.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
524
15.2% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 759 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Columbia locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
759
12.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
369
Female
51.4%
390
Value Percent YoY change
Male 369 48.6% 18.6%
Female 390 51.4% 7.4%
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 26.9% are children under 15, then 3.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.3% of the population, while another 16.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
26.9%
15 to 24
3.4%
25 to 44
27.3%
45 to 64
16.2%
Over 65
26.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 204 26.9% -2.4%
15 to 24 26 3.4% 13.0%
25 to 44 207 27.3% 24.7%
45 to 64 123 16.2% 12.8%
Over 65 199 26.2% 19.2%
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

At the same time, 17.5% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 14.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
82.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
17.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 626 82.5% 11.8%
Non-citizens 133 17.5% 16.7%
Racial breakdown
White
29.1%
Black or African American
32.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.1%
Other
24.1%
Value Percent
White 221 29.1%
Black or African American 248 32.7%
Two or more races 107 14.1%
Other 183 24.1%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 349 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.7% are families, while the remaining 39.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
349
21.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
137
Family households
212
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 137 39.3% 7.9%
Family households 212 60.7% 32.5%
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 Columbia

The housing landscape of Columbia

Columbia's housing consists of 524 units, with 63.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 17.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
524
15.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 335 63.9%
1 unit, attached 11 2.1%
2 units 52 9.9%
3 or 4 units 31 5.9%
5 to 9 units 4 0.8%
Mobile home 91 17.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1951. About 30.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 18.9% 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 162 30.9% 18.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 99 18.9% 41.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 18 3.4% 50.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 33 6.3% -50.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 51 9.7% -17.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 81 15.5% 37.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 10 1.9% 233.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 67 12.8% 45.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3 0.6% N/A
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 349 occupied housing units in Columbia, 49.3% are owner-occupied, while 50.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
349
21.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
177
Owner occupied
172
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 177 50.7% 5.4%
Owner occupied 172 49.3% 44.5%
Unoccupied housing units
33.4%
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 $847 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $678.

Median housing costs per month
$847/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
$678/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 42.2% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 31.7% pursued college studies. Another 0.4% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 67 12.1% 55.8%
High school diploma 234 42.2% 10.9%
College diploma 176 31.7% 29.4%
Associate degree 2 0.4% -33.3%
Bachelor's degree 54 9.7% 17.4%
Graduate degree 22 4% -12.0%
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 $41,721 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +30.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $25,893, reflecting a +22.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia
$41,721/year
30.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$25,893/year
22.6% 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 $26,488. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $34,120 overall. Overall, 73.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $26,488 18.1%
45 - 64 $34,120 N/A
Above poverty level
554
Below poverty level
196
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 554 73.9% 27.1%
Below poverty level 196 26.1% -13.3%

Average renter income in Columbia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbia, their median household income was $16,667 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 48.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$16,667
Rent-to-income ratio
48.8%
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 296 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs.

Workforce demographics

Working population
296
12.1% year-over-year change
White collar
205
Blue collar
91
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 205 69.3% 9.6%
Blue collar 91 30.7% 18.2%
Employer type
Self employees
0%
Private companies
47.6%
Governmental workers
8.8%
Not for profit companies
43.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Private companies 141 47.6% 0.7%
Governmental workers 26 8.8% 73.3%
Not for profit companies 129 43.6% 20.6%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
11.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia stands at 6%, 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: 98.3% 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 291 98.3% 14.6%
Walk 5 1.7% -28.6%
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
27925 3,382 1,520 $41,522 $56,241

Explore more communities

FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 759 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 +12.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (369 residents)
  • 51.4% females (390 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 38.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 26.9% (204 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 3.4% (26 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.3% (207 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.2% (123 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.2% (199 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 29.1% (221 residents)
  • Black or African American: 32.7% (248 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: 14.1% (107 residents)
  • Other: 24.1% (183 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 82.5% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 524 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a +15.2% 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 349 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $25,893, representing a +22.6% 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 94% in Columbia, with a workforce of 296 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.3% (205 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.7% (91 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 0% (0 residents)
  • Private companies: 47.6% (141 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.8% (26 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 43.6% (129 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