Columbia, AL
Population 769 · Alabama
About Columbia, AL
Columbia is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 769 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,417 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Columbia features a median home value of $151,300, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Columbia in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $777, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 358 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (239 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (63 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Columbia shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Columbia have an average one-way commute time of 31.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.7% of Columbia residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.6% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Columbia, AL
Compared to national averages, Columbia has a median household income of $55,417 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $151,300, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $777 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Columbia's income is 4% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 5% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Columbia, AL?
Columbia offers affordable housing with a median home value of $151,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $777/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,417) that falls below the national average. However, Columbia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Columbia has a population of 769 with a median age of 32.1 years. Compare Columbia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Columbia
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Alabama
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia
What is the population of Columbia, AL?
The population of Columbia, AL is 769 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Alabama.
What is the median household income in Columbia?
The median household income in Columbia, AL is $55,417 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Columbia?
The median home value in Columbia, AL is $151,300, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Columbia?
The median monthly rent in Columbia, AL is $777, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbia?
The unemployment rate in Columbia, AL is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Columbia, AL a good place to live?
Columbia offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 769 and a median age of 32.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Columbia, AL?
5.7% of residents in Columbia aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Columbia?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Columbia, AL: median home value is $151,300 (38% below national), median rent is $777/month, and median household income is $55,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Columbia?
The poverty rate in Columbia, AL is 11.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Columbia, AL?
Columbia's population is 1.6% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 6.4% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.