Columbia, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,278
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,437/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,936
-2.7% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 10,278 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.6% of Columbia locals are male, and 45.4% are female.

Total population
10,278
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.6%
5,612
Female
45.4%
4,666
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,612 54.6% 0.7%
Female 4,666 45.4% 0.5%
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 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.9% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.3% of the population, while another 23.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.9%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
28.3%
45 to 64
23.4%
Over 65
22.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,433 13.9% 23.6%
15 to 24 1,206 11.7% 5.7%
25 to 44 2,910 28.3% 5.7%
45 to 64 2,403 23.4% -6.6%
Over 65 2,326 22.6% -10.3%
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, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 9.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.5%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,123 88.8% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,077 10.5% 5.1%
Non-citizens 78 0.8% -26.4%
Racial breakdown
White
71.6%
Black or African American
9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.9%
Other
8.1%
Value Percent
White 7,364 71.6%
Black or African American 978 9.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 84 0.8%
Two or more races 1,017 9.9%
Other 835 8.1%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 4,568 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.4% are families, while the remaining 46.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,568
-2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,129
Family households
2,439
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,129 46.6% 0.5%
Family households 2,439 53.4% -4.3%
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 4,936 units, with 30.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 30.6% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,936
-2.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,492 30.2%
1 unit, attached 1,511 30.6%
2 units 376 7.6%
3 or 4 units 490 9.9%
5 to 9 units 412 8.4%
10 to 19 units 60 1.2%
20 to 49 units 72 1.5%
50 or more units 475 9.6%
Mobile home 14 0.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 34 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
13
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1938. About 51.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 1.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,555 51.8% -4.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 389 7.9% -2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 458 9.3% -9.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 423 8.6% -11.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 365 7.4% -12.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 459 9.3% 37.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 183 3.7% 1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 73 1.5% -2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 18 0.4% 38.5%
Built in 2020 or later 13 0.3% 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 4,568 occupied housing units in Columbia, 52.8% are owner-occupied, while 47.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,568
-2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,157
Owner occupied
2,411
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,157 47.2% -3.3%
Owner occupied 2,411 52.8% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Columbia housing costs

Housing costs in Columbia come to a median of $1,123 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,075.

Median housing costs per month
$1,123/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
$1,075/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 59.8% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 12.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 11.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 261 3.1% 31.2%
High school diploma 5,078 59.8% -6.0%
College diploma 1,094 12.9% -3.9%
Associate degree 645 7.6% 12.0%
Bachelor's degree 989 11.7% -5.9%
Graduate degree 417 4.9% 14.9%
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 $75,144 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,437, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Columbia
$75,144/year
6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$54,437/year
4.1% 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 $62,516. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,698 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,838, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,008 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,838 12.5%
25 - 44 $62,516 4.3%
45 - 64 $76,698 10.1%
Over 65 $39,008 5.6%
Above poverty level
7,766
Below poverty level
2,012
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,766 79.4% -4.3%
Below poverty level 2,012 20.6% 17.2%

Average renter income in Columbia

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Columbia, their median household income was $33,960 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,960
Rent-to-income ratio
38%
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 5,103 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 3.2% run their own businesses, 79.4% are employed by private companies, and 8.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,103
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,455
Blue collar
1,648
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,455 67.7% -0.1%
Blue collar 1,648 32.3% 5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
3.2%
Private companies
79.4%
Governmental workers
8.1%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 165 3.2% -20.7%
Private companies 4,052 79.4% 4.2%
Governmental workers 415 8.1% -8.8%
Not for profit companies 471 9.2% -0.8%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-19.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Columbia stands at 3.2%, 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: 84.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.5% 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 4,315 84.9% -1.6%
Bus or trolleybus 25 0.5% N/A
Subway or elevated 7 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 11 0.2% N/A
Bicycle 7 0.1% -36.4%
Walk 331 6.5% 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
17512 18,148 7,692 $66,684 $92,249

Explore more communities

FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 10,278 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 54.6% males (5,612 residents)
  • 45.4% females (4,666 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 41.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.9% (1,433 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (1,206 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.3% (2,910 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.4% (2,403 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.6% (2,326 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 71.6% (7,364 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.5% (978 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (84 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.9% (1,017 residents)
  • Other: 8.1% (835 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 4,936 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a -2.7% 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 4,568 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $54,437, representing a +4.1% 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 96.8% in Columbia, with a workforce of 5,103 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.7% (3,455 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.3% (1,648 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 3.2% (165 residents)
  • Private companies: 79.4% (4,052 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 8.1% (415 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (471 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