Crime
With a lower than average crime rate per 100,000 people, this area could be considered a very safe place to live. Crime rates are based on both violent and property crimes.
Employment
The combination of higher than average median home income, income per capita and low unemployment rates results in a score that is well above average in the employment category.
Housing
This area has received high scores in the housing category. This could be due to a positive home affordability ratio, high appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Health & Safety
A high score in the health and safety category is a result of good air quality and the accessibility to health facilities such as hospitals, clinics, doctors, pharmacies and fire stations.
Amenities
A majority of amenities are not ideally situated within a reasonable walking distance, which may lead residents to rely on a vehicle or public transportation.
Commute
Public transportation is not readily available in this area and the average commute time to work could also be longer than the national average.
Columbus, Minnesota is a small city with a population of 4,109 people. In Columbus, there are 92 people per square mile, which is well below the national population density average. The majority of Columbus residents report their race to be White; this is followed by American Indian and Alaskan and Asian. In Columbus, there seems to be a shift in population towards an older age group. The average age of the population is now 48, which is significantly higher than the nation’s average. An important consideration when living in Columbus is the longer-than-average commute times. If you seek a short work commute, this area may not be the best choice for you. The one-way commute time here typically takes 31 minutes, far surpassing the national average of 26 minutes.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Columbus, Minnesota could be a fulfilling experience for anyone who puts in the effort to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. Finding the best places to live in Columbus and nearby areas is a much easier task when you can rely on information and data from the livability score, which includes amenities, crime, cost of living, commute and other important metrics.
Using data and statistics Columbus has received a livability score of 69/100. This score is ranked in the 75th percentile when compared to all other cities. If we consider each of the categories on their own, we see that Columbus ranks well for crime (A+), employment (A+) and housing (A+). There are some categories that Columbus scores poorly for, including: amenities (F) and cost of living (F). It might be worth taking a closer look to figure out why.
When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Columbus, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 1.57% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Columbus apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
There are many factors that go into deciding if an area is the right fit for your lifestyle. Certain “must haves” like low crime, great schools and nearby amenities are all at the top of most people's lists. But before even considering if those options are attainable, we'll need to know if the real estate in Columbus is actually affordable. The median home price for Columbus homes is $296,500, which is 54.8% higher than the Minnesota average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Columbus, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 3.2, which is 6.7% higher than the Minnesota average.
| Statistic | Columbus | Minnesota | National |
| Average one way commute | 31min | 23min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 80.9% | 78.0% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 5.9% | 8.7% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.0% | 3.5% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.0% | 0.8% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 0.0% | 2.8% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 13.2% | 5.3% | 4.6% |
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