Columbia, SD
Population 170 · South Dakota
About Columbia, SD
Columbia is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 170 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,038 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32 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 $121,900, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Columbia one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 74 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (66 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (8 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Columbia shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 1.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Columbia have an average one-way commute time of 21.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.6% 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 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Columbia, SD
Compared to national averages, Columbia has a median household income of $59,038 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,900, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Columbia's income is 9% below the state average of $64,650, and home values are 15% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Columbia, SD?
Columbia offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 1.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,038) 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 170 with a median age of 32 years. Compare Columbia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
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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, SD?
The population of Columbia, SD is 170 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in South Dakota.
What is the median household income in Columbia?
The median household income in Columbia, SD is $59,038 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Columbia?
The median home value in Columbia, SD is $121,900, which is 50% 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, SD is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Columbia?
The unemployment rate in Columbia, SD is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Columbia, SD a good place to live?
Columbia offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 170 and a median age of 32, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Columbia, SD?
18.6% 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, SD: median home value is $121,900 (50% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $59,038. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Columbia?
The poverty rate in Columbia, SD is 1.2%, 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, SD?
Columbia's population is 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.