One of America’s Best Places to Live
Ranked as high as the second-best place to live in the U.S. by Money Magazine and regularly in its top 100. Richard Florida named Columbia #16 in the nation for "Young and Ambitious" college grads.
Columbia, Missouri
Home to three colleges, a thriving arts scene and a historic downtown full of local businesses, Columbia is a great place to live, work and grow.
It's Growing
The Hub of Mid-Missouri
Columbia anchors a growing metro area, making it a prominent Mid-Missouri destination.
- City of Columbia
- 126,254 residents, 2020 Census
- Metropolitan Statistical Area
- 219,062 residents
- Columbia & Jefferson City
- 415,747 residents in the combined region
- Growth since 2000
- 50% the fastest-growing municipality in Missouri
- College Student Population
- 33,600 college students
- Columbia Public Schools
- 33 22 elementary, 7 middle & 4 high schools
Living & Working in Columbia
A Day Downtown
From the first cup of coffee to the last encore, see what a day in downtown Columbia looks like. These videos were produced by The District, and they do a great job showing why it’s “Good to be here.”
Why Downtown
A Great Place to Live, Work & Grow
A Top-Ranked College Town
Columbia is consistently ranked among the top 25 college towns in America, and three campuses sit just steps from downtown.
Trails & a New Park Downtown
The MKT Trail ends right downtown at Flat Branch Park, connecting to the statewide Katy Trail. Coming soon: North Village Park, 2.3 acres at Orr Street and Park Avenue with a performance lawn, playground and public art.
Central Location
Right off I-70, about two hours from both Kansas City and St. Louis.
It's Rich in Culture
Art, Music, Film & Books
From world-class film festivals to black box theater and art galleries, there is always something to look forward to in Columbia. Here are some of our favorite downtown cultural amenities…
Then & Now
Downtown Through the Years
If you’ve enjoyed the photography on this site, much of it comes from wonderful local photographer Notley Hawkins. Here are a few creative images he’s blended to show downtown’s history alongside today.
Photos © Notley Hawkins Photography. Tap any image to see it larger.
Find Your Space Downtown
Browse available offices, retail and more, or tell us what you're looking for.