Issues To Know Earlier than Transferring To Columbia, SC.
Excited about making Columbia, South Carolina your new house?
Properly, there’s so much to like about this southern gem.
It’s not simply the state’s capital; it’s a spot the place historical past meets a vigorous tradition, all set towards the gorgeous backdrop of the Congaree River.
Columbia has cool neighborhoods like Shandon, Rosewood, and Elmwood Park, every with its personal taste and group really feel.
And with a rising inhabitants, town is all the time buzzing with exercise.
Its location close to three rivers means there’s all the time one thing enjoyable to do outdoors, whether or not it’s a weekend picnic or a morning jog.
However like several metropolis, Columbia has its ups and downs. So, earlier than you pack up and transfer, it’s a good suggestion to get a really feel for the place.
Let’s take a more in-depth have a look at what life in Columbia may be like for you.
Is Columbia, SC A Good Place To Stay?
Columbia, also known as the “Famously Scorching” metropolis, definitely lives as much as its vibrant spirit.
It may not have the fixed hustle and bustle of Atlanta or the coastal attract of Charleston, nevertheless it presents a balanced mix of metropolis and suburban vibes that many discover interesting.
The guts of South Carolina, Columbia prides itself on being a spot the place households can develop and thrive. Its measurement strikes the appropriate steadiness – not overwhelmingly massive, however nonetheless with lots to supply.
Town is anchored by its wealthy historical past, and it’s clear that group values are held in excessive regard.
One in all Columbia’s main plus factors is its location. It’s central, that means there’s a treasure trove of actions inside just some hours’ drive. Desire a fast nature retreat?
There are numerous trails, parks, and naturally, the sumptuous Lake Murray. In case you’re a fan of serene walks, the river stroll may simply grow to be your favourite hang-out.
However, as with all metropolis, there are challenges.
Columbia holds the title for being the most popular metropolis within the state, so summers may be fairly intense.
And when you’re somebody who drives steadily, you’ll need to familiarize your self with the intricacies of Columbia’s visitors, particularly across the I-20/I-26/I-126 connectors, amusingly dubbed “malfunction junction.”
Whereas Columbia may lack the fixed coastal issues like hurricanes and flooding that cities like Charleston face, it greater than makes up for it with simpler visitors stream and a extra laid-back environment.
What makes Columbia stand out, although, is its real really feel. Town’s essence isn’t simply in its landmarks or occasions, however in its individuals, their tales, and the shared experiences that knit the group collectively.
In fact, Columbia may not resonate with everybody..
Some might seamlessly sync with its vibe, whereas others may yearn for one thing a bit completely different. If Columbia’s caught your eye, take a second to get a really feel for it.
See if this balanced mix of city comfort and a touch of nature is what you’re on the lookout for.
Let’s dig in a bit extra.
Execs Of Residing In Columbia, SC
Listed below are loads of the reason why residing within the capital metropolis of the Palmetto State may be an thrilling and fulfilling expertise:
Welcoming Ambiance
Columbia is understood for its welcoming and pleasant environment, which is undoubtedly a big draw for a lot of residents.
The residents embrace the Southern allure and hospitality, making it an inviting place for newcomers.
Whether or not on the native grocery retailer or exploring town’s vibrant downtown, you’ll all the time be met with heat smiles and pleasant conversations.
Delicate Local weather
In case you’re uninterested in harsh winters or scorching summers, this metropolis is what you’re on the lookout for.
Columbia experiences all 4 seasons, however they’re usually gentle and nice.
Winters are usually gentle with occasional snowfall, whereas summers carry heat temperatures with out being overly sizzling.
The spring and fall seasons are notably lovely, with blooming flowers and beautiful foliage.
So, when you take pleasure in outside actions and time in nature, Columbia presents the right local weather.
Affordability
In comparison with different main cities in america, Columbia’s residing value is considerably 5% decrease than the nationwide common.
The housing costs are affordable, and also you’ll discover loads of inexpensive rental choices.
The price of groceries, transportation, and healthcare can also be manageable. So, residing in Columbia gained’t break the financial institution!
Wealthy Historical past
Columbia is steeped in historical past, and it proudly showcases its previous.
From the State Home to the historic properties and buildings, town is a treasure trove for historical past buffs.
The State Museum presents a glimpse into the state’s wealthy historical past, whereas the Accomplice Relic Room and Navy Museum inform the story of South Carolina’s army heritage.
Columbia additionally performed a big position within the Civil Rights Motion, with essential landmarks just like the Modjeska Simkins Home and the Booker T. Washington Excessive Faculty.
Nice Meals
Properly, then, you’re in for a deal with in Columbia! Town is a haven for foodies, with a thriving culinary scene.
From conventional Southern consolation meals to worldwide cuisines, Columbia has all of it. Whether or not it’s the well-known Carolina-style barbecue, mouthwatering shrimp and grits, or delectable seafood, put together your style buds for a pleasant gastronomic journey.
In case you’re into locally-sourced elements and farm-to-table ideas, loads of eating places cater to your preferences.
Columbia is a meals lover’s paradise with quite a few meals festivals and occasions all year long.
Columbia’s climate is a plus
With a mean of 215 sunny days a 12 months, you may anticipate loads of blue skies and heat climate.
Summers are usually sizzling and humid, however that’s nothing a refreshing dip in close by lakes or rivers can’t treatment.
Winters are gentle, making outside actions pleasurable year-round.
The average climate creates the right setting for exploring town’s quite a few parks, gardens, and outside points of interest.
Good Neighborhoods
Columbia boasts varied engaging residential neighborhoods catering to a variety of preferences.
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a historic house with Southern allure or a contemporary downtown condo, there’s a neighborhood that may fit your model.
The Forest Acres space presents lovely tree-lined streets and upscale housing choices, whereas Shandon is understood for its charming bungalows and various group.
Lake Carolina and Lake Murray present waterfront residing for individuals who take pleasure in a extra serene and picturesque surroundings.
Good Entry to Main Cities
Residing in Columbia doesn’t imply being lower off from the remainder of the world.
Its central location inside South Carolina makes it simply accessible to different main cities.
Charleston, the historic port metropolis, is only a two-hour drive away, whereas the distinctive and superb metropolis of Greenville can also be inside straightforward attain.
For these youthful of us in search of a vigorous environment, Myrtle Seashore is a superb place to stay and play, and it’s solely a brief drive away.
Cons Of Residing In Columbia, SC
Listed below are 5 cons of residing in Columbia, SC:
Humidity
Whereas the gentle local weather in Columbia is usually a plus, one main draw back is the sticky, humid summers.
Summers may be notably brutal, with temperatures reaching the excessive 90s and humidity making it really feel even hotter.
It may be difficult to remain comfy and funky throughout these months, particularly if you’re not used to such excessive humidity.
Excessive crime charge
Columbia has skilled some shifts in its security panorama.
Whereas town was beforehand seen as comparatively protected, current occasions have seen a noticeable uptick in minor crimes.
A majority of those incidents, notably in downtown areas, contain petty thefts equivalent to pilfering packages from porches or opportunists checking unlocked doorways.
Nevertheless, the will for security, particularly for these considering beginning households, stays paramount.
This has pushed many residents to discover a few of Columbia’s family-friendly neighborhoods.
Shandon is a chief selection for households, providing a mixture of serenity and accessibility.
Located near Shandon, Devine caters extra to a youthful demographic, making it vigorous and thrilling.
Rosewood is good for first-time homebuyers and serves as an exquisite entry level to life in Columbia.
Earlewood, recognized for its historic allure, presents a mix of younger adults and seniors.
Whereas components of Earlewood are peaceable and engaging, some areas on its outskirts may be much less interesting.
Elmwood, a neighboring space to Earlewood, is famend for its family-friendly surroundings, the place it’s not unusual to see residents jogging or dad and mom pushing strollers on its streets.
Springdale, with its quaint ambiance, has additionally garnered consideration.
For these contemplating Lexington, the neighborhoods round River Bluff Excessive Faculty are definitely worth the visitors hassles.
Regardless of being round half an hour from native facilities, they provide good entry to I-20.
Mosquitos
Earlier than you progress to Columbia, know that you simply’ll continuously battle the state chook: the mosquito.
These pesky bugs thrive in heat and humid environments, making outside actions in the course of the summer season months much less pleasurable.
Restricted nightlife
In case you take pleasure in a vibrant and bustling nightlife scene, you might be disenchanted by Columbia’s restricted choices.
Whereas town has its fair proportion of bars and eating places, the nightlife scene right here is much less vigorous than in some bigger cities.
Native hotspots cater to a laid-back crowd, with stay music performances and a relaxed environment.
Restricted transportation
Whereas there’s a bus system that serves town and its surrounding areas, it is probably not as complete as what you’d discover in bigger metropolitan areas.
Relying solely on public transportation may be difficult, particularly if you’re used to the comfort of a well-developed system.
Most residents in Columbia depend on their vehicles to get round.
Hurricane seasons
Situated inland, Columbia isn’t instantly on the coast, however it’s prone to the impacts of hurricanes, equivalent to heavy rainfall, sturdy winds, and energy outages.
Whereas hurricanes are usually not a typical prevalence within the space, once they do occur, they’ll have a big influence on each day life.
Conclusion
Columbia is a fairly cool place, nevertheless it may not be everybody’s jam.
For starters, your pockets may thanks because it’s simpler on the pocket in comparison with some large cities on the market.
However, life isn’t nearly saving pennies. You’ve obtained to ask your self if Columbia’s distinctive vibe and tempo really feel best for you.
Simply because you may arrange store right here doesn’t imply it’ll really feel like “house.”
That mentioned, Columbia has heaps of historical past, tradition, and a tight-knit group vibe going for it.
For some, it’s the right spot to name house; for others, not a lot.
If Columbia isn’t hitting the mark for you, no stress. Take a look by way of our different guides and discover a spot that feels excellent:
13 Execs & Cons Of Residing In Raleigh