The Columbia, SC Metro Area is an area consisting of six counties in central South Carolina anchored by the city of Columbia.

Columbia bills itself as being "famously hot," and the humid, sub-tropical climate is well known for its hot and humid summers and mild winters. Columbia is also known for the scenic rivers cutting through the city and Lake Murray, both of which provide a wealth of opportunities for water-sports enthusiasts.

It is a central location for state and federal government institutions as well as current and retired military personnel due to the presence of the Fort Jackson Army installation. Eighteen colleges and universities attract a wealth of international students from around the world. A large yearly International Festival highlights and celebrates the growing ethnic diversity of the city.

Total Population: 810,068

(An increase of 5.53 % in the past 5 years.)

Census Data

• Foreign Born - 37,807
• Language Spoken at Home - 49,586

[ Source: American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Foreign Born and Language Spoken at Home]

Quick Facts

• The second largest metro area in the state of South Carolina and ranked as the 61st Most Populated Metro Area in the United States.


• Columbia was the first city in the United States to be named for Christopher Columbus, the European discoverer of the Americas.


• The University of South Carolina's International Business Undergraduate Program has been ranked # 1 among American universities for almost two decades, and the International MBA program has been ranked in the top 3 for 25 consecutive years.


• The cost of living in Columbia is 8.9% lower than the national average.


• Columbia is situated in the center of the state of South Carolina at the convergence of three scenic rivers lined by a shady river walk.


• Columbia has recently been named one of “10 Great Cities to Live In,” and has also been named a top mid-sized market in the nation for relocating families.