Columbia, Missouri

Home to three colleges, a thriving arts scene and a historic downtown full of local businesses, Columbia is a great place to live, work and grow.

It's Growing

The Hub of Mid-Missouri

Columbia anchors a growing metro area, making it a prominent Mid-Missouri destination.

City of Columbia: 126,254; residents, 2020 Census
Metropolitan Statistical Area: 219,062; residents
Columbia & Jefferson City: 415,747; residents in the combined region
Growth since 2000: 50%; the fastest-growing municipality in Missouri
College Student Population: 33,600; college students
Columbia Public Schools: 33; 22 elementary, 7 middle & 4 high schools

Living & Working in Columbia

A Day Downtown

From the first cup of coffee to the last encore, see what a day in downtown Columbia looks like. These videos were produced by The District, and they do a great job showing why it’s “Good to be here.”

MorningCoffee, commutes and the District waking up MiddayLunch on the patio and business downtown AfternoonGalleries, shops and a stroll through the North Village EveningDinner, live music and Broadway after dark

Why Downtown

A Great Place to Live, Work & Grow

Living & Working

One of America’s Best Places to Live

Ranked as high as the second-best place to live in the U.S. by Money Magazine and regularly in its top 100. Richard Florida named Columbia #16 in the nation for "Young and Ambitious" college grads.

It's Youthful

A Top-Ranked College Town

Columbia is consistently ranked among the top 25 college towns in America, and three campuses sit just steps from downtown.

It's Green

Trails & a New Park Downtown

The MKT Trail ends right downtown at Flat Branch Park, connecting to the statewide Katy Trail. Coming soon: North Village Park, 2.3 acres at Orr Street and Park Avenue with a performance lawn, playground and public art.

Getting Here

Central Location

Right off I-70, about two hours from both Kansas City and St. Louis.

It's Rich in Culture

Art, Music, Film & Books

From world-class film festivals to black box theater and art galleries, there is always something to look forward to in Columbia. Here are some of our favorite downtown cultural amenities…

Then & Now

Downtown Through the Years

If you’ve enjoyed the photography on this site, much of it comes from wonderful local photographer Notley Hawkins. Here are a few creative images he’s blended to show downtown’s history alongside today.