Columbus, MN
Population 4,211 · Minnesota
About Columbus, MN
Columbus is a small community in Minnesota with a population of 4,211 residents. The median household income is $117,917 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Columbus is 47.2 years.
Housing in Columbus has a median home value of $439,200 and median monthly rent of $1,534. Of the 1,699 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,429 owner-occupied and 208 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Columbus is 1.3% and the poverty rate is 3.4%. 29.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 28.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Columbus, MN
Compared to national averages, Columbus has a median household income of $117,917 (57% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $439,200, which is 79% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,534 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Columbus's income is 59% above the state average of $74,221, and home values are 115% above the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Columbus, MN?
Columbus offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $117,917, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.3%, and a low poverty rate of 3.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $439,200. However, Columbus’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Columbus has a population of 4,211 with a median age of 47.2 years. Compare Columbus with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
Similar Cities Near Columbus
Cities in Minnesota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cannon Falls | 4,216 | $80,515 | $262,100 | Compare |
| Le Sueur | 4,204 | $71,563 | $216,700 | Compare |
| Cold Spring | 4,201 | $72,022 | $242,000 | Compare |
| Park Rapids | 4,226 | $45,800 | $218,500 | Compare |
| Pipestone | 4,165 | $61,442 | $102,000 | Compare |
| Rice Lake | 4,120 | $95,347 | $283,700 | Compare |
| Goodview | 4,104 | $75,375 | $215,200 | Compare |
| Wadena | 4,361 | $45,850 | $158,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Minnesota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Columbus
What is the population of Columbus, MN?
The population of Columbus, MN is 4,211 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Columbus?
The median household income in Columbus, MN is $117,917 per year.
What is the median home value in Columbus?
The median home value in Columbus, MN is $439,200.
What is the average rent in Columbus?
The median monthly rent in Columbus, MN is $1,534.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbus?
The unemployment rate in Columbus, MN is 1.3%.