Columbia, MD
Population 105,871 · Maryland
About Columbia, MD
Columbia is a major city in Maryland with a population of 105,871 residents. The median household income is $129,173 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Columbia is 39.1 years.
Housing in Columbia has a median home value of $480,300 and median monthly rent of $1,998. Of the 43,344 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 26,760 owner-occupied and 14,458 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Columbia is 4.5% and the poverty rate is 7.4%. 63.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.5 minutes.
How Columbia Ranks in Maryland
Cost of Living in Columbia, MD
Compared to national averages, Columbia has a median household income of $129,173 (72% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $480,300, which is 96% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,998 is 72% above the US average of $1,163. Within Maryland, Columbia's income is 20% above the state average of $107,956, and home values are 19% above the state median of $402,447.
Why Live in Columbia, MD?
Columbia offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $129,173, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 63.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $480,300. However, as a major city, Columbia provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Columbia has a population of 105,871 with a median age of 39.1 years. Compare Columbia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Maryland.
Similar Cities Near Columbia
Cities in Maryland with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Germantown | 90,521 | $112,149 | $401,400 | Compare |
| Waldorf | 82,541 | $115,453 | $383,100 | Compare |
| Silver Spring | 82,129 | $98,880 | $619,400 | Compare |
| Frederick | 80,617 | $95,150 | $365,200 | Compare |
| Ellicott City | 73,737 | $157,891 | $644,300 | Compare |
| Glen Burnie | 72,772 | $88,291 | $329,200 | Compare |
| Gaithersburg | 69,225 | $107,496 | $484,500 | Compare |
| Bethesda | 67,403 | $191,348 | $1,129,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Maryland
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, MD?
The population of Columbia, MD is 105,871 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Columbia?
The median household income in Columbia, MD is $129,173 per year.
What is the median home value in Columbia?
The median home value in Columbia, MD is $480,300.
What is the average rent in Columbia?
The median monthly rent in Columbia, MD is $1,998.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbia?
The unemployment rate in Columbia, MD is 4.5%.