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For those looking to tap into Georgia’s vast wealth, both in finances and culture, its top cities like Atlanta and Columbus are top destinations.

However, for many who prefer a more idyllic lifestyle while having easy access to modern amenities, Columbus seems like the perfect spot — the city is easily one of the top places to live in Georgia.

If you’re considering a move to Fountain City, you’re probably wondering, “Is Columbus, GA, a good place to live?”

From the financial aspects to the quality of life, Columbus has some interesting features that might just make it the right fit for you.

Let’s examine these features.

Affordable Cost of Living

Top among the reasons people flock to Columbus is its affordable cost of living.

Compared to national averages, housing, groceries, utility, and transportation costs are generally lower. This makes it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees looking for a financially manageable place to settle.

Housing costs

Living in Columbus, GA, means gaining access to quality homes at a cost 22% less than the national average.

Despite the low entry price, the real estate market is somewhat competitive, with homes staying a median of only 12 days on the market.

If you rent, expect to pay around $1,071 monthly for a studio apartment, while a 4-bedroom apartment can set you back about $1,899.

Average House Rent: $1,195

Median Home Value: $215,000

Everyday expenses

Groceries and utilities costs are just priced fairly below the national average, which technically allows your dollar to stretch further.

Transportation costs seem to follow similar principles. Gas prices tend to be more affordable, and public transportation is reasonably priced.

Expense Compared to the National Average Groceries 4% lower Utility 13% lower Transportation 8% lower Healthcare 32% higher

Even though healthcare costs in Columbus are 32% higher than the national average, the city offers a great balance of cost and quality of life, with an overall cost of living 7% lower than the national average.

Note:

If you want to enjoy the good amenities without the financial strain typical of larger cities, immediately arrange with any trusted moving company to start heading to Columbus. After all, transportation costs are very affordable here.

Salaries and Job Market

When it comes to job opportunities, Columbus is no slacker!

Industries such as healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and education are some of the biggest employers of Columbus residents. Plus, an increasing number of tech and service industry jobs are also cropping up, making it a diverse job market.

Not forgetting the heavy military presence in Columbus, the city is home to Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), which boosts the local job market.

So, economy-wise, is Columbus, GA, a good place to live?

Well, it depends on your current needs, your career or profession, what you pay, and what you used to receive.

For instance, the average hourly pay in Columbus is $17, but a registered nurse can earn about $31 per hour while a cashier takes home $10 per hour.

The average annual salary in Columbus is around $47,770, but this can vary depending on the industry. While this may not be as high as in larger cities, the low cost of living makes up for it.

Median Household Income: $54,561

Unemployment Rate: 4.4%

Poverty Rate: 18.7%

Taxation

Another bright spot for those asking, “Is Columbus, Georgia, a good place to live?” is taxes.

Columbus’ income tax ranges from 1% to 5.75%, the same as the rest of Georgia, which is relatively low compared to many states.

However, you will pay property taxes in Columbus. Luckily, they are relatively modest at 0.84%, especially compared to nearby states.

The sales tax rate in Columbus is around 9%. This is important to remember when budgeting for shopping and dining out.

Social and Entertainment Scene

Although Columbus is the second-most populous city in Georgia, it still has a small-town vibe.

Prospective residents naturally have concerns about what the weekends are like after grinding hard to pay those taxes. Fortunately, Columbus has many entertainment venues and activities that make spending those extra sales tax worth every penny.

The city’s prime location along the Chattahoochee Riverwalk and its military heritage make for interesting locations and stories that history buffs and nature lovers won’t want to miss.

Some of the best things to do in Columbus GA include:

Going for a walk or biking along the Chattahoochee Riverwalk.

Visit museums such as the National Infantry Museum, the Columbus Museum, and the National Civil War Naval Museum.

Getting entertained at the Springer Opera House.

Attend annual events like the Fountain City Classic and Uptown’s Beer and Wine Festival.

Weather: Rainbows or Rainstorms?

If you enjoy warm weather, Columbus will be a great fit for you.

Its climate is subtropical, meaning it has mostly hot and humid summers and cold winters. On average, the city gets around 214 sunny days a year, which is enough days to enjoy outdoor activities.

Summers:

Expect high temperatures in the upper 80s to 90s during this season. It can feel warmer with the humidity that often follows.

Winters:

Nothing crazy or in some form of blizzard. Winters are mild, with lows in the 40s. In some Januarys, the temperature may go as low as 38°F

So, is Columbus, GA, a good place to live?

When you consider that Columbus isn’t prone to hurricanes or tornadoes like other Southern cities, it gives you pretty much a clear answer if you’re so weather concerned.

Safety and Security: Crime Ratings

Nobody wants to live in a troubled area. As such, it is necessary to consider the crime levels of a city before moving there.

Like any city, some areas in Columbus experience higher crime rates, but the safe ones with low crime levels are there for the taking!

Property crime (1 in 38) is higher than its counterpart violent crime (1 in 155). However, the chance of being a victim of violent crime is highest in the southern neighborhoods (1 in 93) and lowest in the northeast (1 in 440).

per 1,000 residents Columbus Median Georgia Median National Median Violent Crime 12.45 2.81 4.0 Property Crime 53.83 19.67 20.0

So, is it a good place to live?

Crime rates in Columbus appear inflated in areas with high daytime visitors, such as retail areas and parks. But it’s lower in places with fewer permanent residents.

Regardless, some of the safest neighborhoods you might want to find a home include:

Green Island Hills

Midland

Grove Park Big Creek

Rivercrest

Fort Benning

Conclusion — Thinking of Making Columbus Your New Home?

Is Columbus, GA, a good place to live?

If affordability is a priority, Columbus offers a lower cost of living. Although Fountain City has higher healthcare costs, its affordability in other areas can help residents manage their overall expenses.

Also, the mix of historical attractions, annual festivals, and outdoor activities offers plenty for anyone who values leisure activities.

The truth is Columbus, GA, can be a good place to live. However, before making the move, it’s necessary to weigh the crime rates and healthcare costs against these benefits.

If you do decide to proceed, consider settling in safer neighborhoods like Green Island Hills or Midland to allay your crime concerns.