Columbia, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,471
3,771.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,083/yr
% year-over-year change
Housing units
812
6,666.7% year-over-year change

Columbia population

How many people live in Columbia

Columbia is home to 1,471 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46% of Columbia locals are male, and 54% are female.

Total population
1,471
3,771.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46%
677
Female
54%
794
Value Percent YoY change
Male 677 46% 2,503.8%
Female 794 54% 6,516.7%
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 58, with the population distributed as follows: about 4.8% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 15.3% of the population, while another 35.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 30.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
57.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
4.8%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
15.3%
45 to 64
35.6%
Over 65
30.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 70 4.8% N/A
15 to 24 201 13.7% N/A
25 to 44 225 15.3% 1,507.1%
45 to 64 524 35.6% N/A
Over 65 451 30.7% 1,779.2%
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, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 1.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,445 98.2% 3,702.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 26 1.8% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
81.1%
Black or African American
15.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1%
Two or more races
1.3%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 1,193 81.1%
Black or African American 233 15.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 1%
Two or more races 19 1.3%
Other 12 0.8%

Households in Columbia

A peek inside Columbia households

Columbia has 633 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.4% are families, while the remaining 39.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
633
5,175.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
251
Family households
382
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 251 39.6% N/A
Family households 382 60.4% 3,083.3%
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 812 units, with 86.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 10% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
812
6,666.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 700 86.2%
1 unit, attached 12 1.5%
5 to 9 units 19 2.3%
Mobile home 81 10%
Homes built since 2020
10
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Columbia

In Columbia, the median construction year is 1986. About 12.6% 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, 18.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 102 12.6% N/A
Built between 1940 and 1949 44 5.4% N/A
Built between 1950 and 1959 87 10.7% N/A
Built between 1960 and 1969 26 3.2% N/A
Built between 1970 and 1979 65 8% 441.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 127 15.6% N/A
Built between 1990 and 1999 169 20.8% N/A
Built between 2000 and 2009 148 18.2% N/A
Built between 2010 and 2019 34 4.2% N/A
Built in 2020 or later 10 1.2% 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 633 occupied housing units in Columbia, 95.3% are owner-occupied, while 4.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
633
5,175.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30
Owner occupied
603
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30 4.7% N/A
Owner occupied 603 95.3% 4,925.0%
Unoccupied housing units
22.0%
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 $961 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,105.

Median housing costs per month
$961/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
$2,105/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 34.2% of the population in Columbia went to high school, while 22% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 19.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 24 1.8% N/A
High school diploma 464 34.2% 3,766.7%
College diploma 298 22% 2,383.3%
Associate degree 134 9.9% 857.1%
Bachelor's degree 260 19.2% N/A
Graduate degree 177 13% N/A
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 $164,656 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Average household income in Columbia
$164,656/year
% year-over-year change
Median household income in Columbia
$87,083/year
% 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 $88,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $115,417 overall. Overall, 89.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $88,500 N/A
45 - 64 $115,417 N/A
Over 65 $44,236 N/A
Above poverty level
1,320
Below poverty level
151
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,320 89.7% 3,373.7%
Below poverty level 151 10.3% N/A

Employment in Columbia

Workforce and job types in Columbia

84.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19.3% run their own businesses, 53.3% are employed by private companies, and 6.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
617
Blue collar
113
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 617 84.5% N/A
Blue collar 113 15.5% 707.1%
Employer type
Self employees
19.3%
Private companies
53.3%
Governmental workers
6.7%
Not for profit companies
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 141 19.3% N/A
Private companies 389 53.3% 2,678.6%
Governmental workers 49 6.7% N/A
Not for profit companies 151 20.7% N/A

Transportation in Columbia

How people get around in Columbia

Commuting methods vary: 97.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 585 97.7% 4,078.6%
Walk 14 2.3% N/A
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
23038 1,471 633 $87,083 $164,664

Explore more communities

FAQs about Columbia demographics 

What is the total population of Columbia?

Columbia has a total population of 1,471 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 +3,771.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Columbia?

The gender ratio in Columbia is as follows:
  • 46% males (677 residents)
  • 54% females (794 residents)

What is the median age in Columbia?

The median age in Columbia is 57.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Columbia?

The age distribution in Columbia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 4.8% (70 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (201 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 15.3% (225 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 35.6% (524 residents)
  • Over 65: 30.7% (451 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Columbia is as follows:
  • White: 81.1% (1,193 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.8% (233 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% ( residents)
  • Asian: 0% ( residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.3% (19 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (12 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Columbia.

How many housing units are there in Columbia?

There are 812 housing units in Columbia, reflecting a +6,666.7% 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 633 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Columbia?

Columbia has a median household income of $87,083, representing a % shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Columbia?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.5% (617 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.5% (113 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19.3% (141 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.3% (389 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.7% (49 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 20.7% (151 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