What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Columbia, SC? Our Top 10 for 2024

Welcome to Columbia, South Carolina, where Southern charm meets modern vitality. As the state capital and home to the University of South Carolina, Soda City, as it’s known to locals, is a hub for education, culture, and economic opportunity. And more people are taking notice, with steady population increases over the past few years as new residents find homes and put down roots in the best neighborhoods in Columbia, SC. 

A diverse job market is just part of the picture here — although with strong growth in sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, and tech, Columbia attracts professionals from all walks of life. The city’s culture and lifestyle are rich and varied, as well, with a lively arts scene, ever-growing dining options, and plenty of parks. In fact, the city lies at the confluence of the Broad, Congaree, and Saluda rivers, all of which offer endless opportunities for recreation. 

So, what’s Soda City really all about? Read on for the lowdown on the best places to live in Columbia, SC.

Columbia at a Glance

Here are some details to get you started:

What’s the population of Columbia? 

Who lives in Columbia?

The University of South Carolina draws lots of students to the city, and a thriving labor market means professionals and families are also in the mix. Fort Jackson, just 15 minutes outside Columbia, brings a strong military presence as the biggest and most-active Army Training Center in the nation. (Fun fact: 50 percent of all soldiers and 60 percent of women entering the U.S. Army come here for training.)

A few quick details:

• The median age is 28, thanks to the university and Fort Jackson.
• The median household income is $56,175.

What’s the average home value in Columbia? 

How much is the average rent in Columbia?

What are the big draws to Columbia?

To name just a few:

• Education: The city is great for anything associated with the University of South Carolina — students (35,000 of them!), professors, and staff — and the research and academic opportunities that come with a college town.
• Jobs: It’s also home to major employers including healthcare giants Prisma, which is expanding this year into the northeast part of the city, and BlueCross BlueShield. In manufacturing, the big news is a $2 billion Volkswagen plant in the works just outside Columbia, to the tune of 4,000 new jobs.
• Culture: Besides the booming economy, Columbia’s creative culture is a major attraction to the area. The Columbia Museum of Art anchors a rich cultural community that also includes the South Carolina State Museum, dozens of local galleries, and the Robert Mills Historic District, where daily tours take visitors back in time to experience life in Columbia’s early years.
• Lifestyle: Like most Southern cities, Columbia gets hot, hot, hot in the summer. But its mild winters make up for those sweltering days and nights, with very little snow and temperatures on the moderate side. In a nutshell, outdoor enthusiasts will love Columbia’s abundance of parks and trails, including the beautiful Congaree National Park, just about 30 minutes outside the city to the Southeast if you’re looking at a Columbia, SC, neighborhoods map. But you don’t have to travel at all to visit the intown Three Rivers Greenway, which includes 15.5 miles — and growing! — of trails, a zoo, botanical gardens, and practically endless opportunities for family fun.

10 of the Best Neighborhoods in Columbia, SC

Now that you know a little more about Soda City, let’s get into some of the best places to live in Columbia, SC. From historic districts to bustling intown enclaves and suburban idylls, the capital area has something for everyone.

Only a short drive away from downtown, Cayce provides wonderful suburban homes in Columbia. 
(Source: Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Kellar Lawrence Real Estate)

1. Cayce, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,650
• Average home value: $206,800
• Great for: Families, commuters, suburbanites, foodies

Cayce is a charming suburb about 15 minutes southwest of downtown Columbia, with a pleasing blend of urban convenience and tranquility — and the emphasis is on tranquil. The Riverwalk along the Congaree is part of the capital city-based Three Rivers Greenway, with an astonishing 20 miles of trails within Cayce alone. Gorgeous views of the river, picnic areas, and recreational fields provide lots of opportunities for connecting with nature. 

As you might imagine in such a scenic part of the Palmetto State, housing is a smidge more expensive here compared to other metro-area burbs; indeed, potential residents might worry about the salary needed to live in Columbia, SC. But the families, young professionals, and retirees who live in Cayce likely feel the price is right — which comes in at a respectable No. 9 on Niche’s list of Columbia suburbs with the lowest cost of living. Communities including The Avenues, Congaree Bluff, and Edenwood are consistently well-maintained with single-family homes and contemporary apartments that fit a variety of lifestyles. 

Cayce's cultural scene has a lot to offer, too. One notable destination is the Cayce Historical Museum, which offers a fascinating look at artifacts and exhibits that explore the area's Native American heritage, early colonial settlement, and the development of the city. And while Cayce might not have as many local galleries as larger cities, it’s just a quick hop to Columbia’s vibrant arts scene — including the Columbia Museum of Art and galleries in the Vista and Five Points districts.

As for dining, Cayce locals enjoy popular restaurants like Steel Hands Brewing, known for its craft beers and lively vibe — especially on weekend nights — and the delightful Kingsman Restaurant, whose Columbia-born chef is famous for steaks, burgers, and Southern-style cuisine. And again, if your palette craves more big-city fare, the bright lights of Columbia are just a few minutes away.

“Keep your eyeballs peeled on the Avenues in Cayce/West Columbia. Those are your best bets for ease of commute and nice neighborhoods. A good runner up on that side of the bridge is the Westwood Hills area.” - Cayce resident

Shandon is the neighborhood to be if you want easy access to downtown’s amenities. 
(Source: For The Love Of Old Houses via Facebook)

2. Shandon

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,400
• Average home value: $425,250
• Great for: Families, professionals, foodies

Just a few minutes from downtown Columbia, Shandon is one of the area’s most historic neighborhoods, known for its tree-shaded streets and restored early 20th-century homes. This picturesque area offers a variety of housing options, from charming bungalows to stately Colonial Revivals, making it a desirable location for families and professionals.

Within Shandon, various pockets have their own unique character and appeal, contributing to the neighborhood’s overall charm as one of the best neighborhoods in Columbia, SC. One notable area is Wales Garden, where spacious, historic homes and lush landscaping are the norm. The neighborhood is highly walkable — and joggable and bikeable — along its scenic streets. Parks in Shandon include Sims and Emily Douglas Park, both with playgrounds and open fields for recreation. 

Shopping is easily accessible in Shandon, particularly in the charming Five Points district and along Devine Street, where boutiques include quirky spots like The Crescent Olive, purveyor of premium olive oil and vinegar. As for dining, Mr. Friendly's New Southern Café has been a local fave since the early ‘80s, and if you’re looking for a date-night spot, you can’t do better than the more upscale Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Wine Bar. 

3. Arsenal Hill

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,175
• Average home value: $291,000
• Great for: Families, history buffs, outdoor aficionados

Just north of downtown Columbia is Arsenal Hill, one of the area’s more upscale districts. And the neighborhood has a rich history: Named after the Columbia Arsenal, a military facility from the early 1800s, the site was converted into a school for freed slaves after the Civil War. The history of the area has left a lasting legacy in Arsenal Hill, one of Columbia’s oldest neighborhoods. 

While the district doesn't have distinct subdivisions, several areas are particularly well-known for their beautifully preserved homes — such as Blandina Court, with its charming bungalows. 

Arsenal Hill residents are just a short drive from attractions such as the South Carolina State House and the Main Street District, a 36-block area bustling with shops and restaurants. Arsenal Hill is also the site of Finlay Park, one of the city's largest urban green spaces and home to the iconic Finlay Fountain, which feeds a waterfall that cascades downhill.

4. Eau Claire

• Median rent (one-bedroom): $1,600
• Average home value: $231,000
• Great for: Diversity, revitalization, culture, history, students

Eau Claire is another historic neighborhood in Columbia, South Carolina — are we sensing a theme here? — that offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and community spirit. Located in the northern part of the city, Eau Claire is known for its unique blend of historic homes and modern developments, making it a diverse and, in some quarters, close-knit neighborhood. In the Pinehurst district, for instance, regular community gatherings include pizza nights and Sunday Sundaes. 

Notably, the neighborhood is undergoing significant revitalization focused on preserving its roots while adding new amenities and infrastructure improvements. Projects underway include a 300-unit apartment community in the North Main Street corridor, where new development has seen fits and starts over the past decade.

Today, a growing number of restaurants and businesses are calling Eau Claire home, like the cozy Indah Coffee and the Noma Warehouse, a multi-use space that supports local entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses. The site offers a variety of amenities including shared workspaces, retail, and event venues — but more than that, it serves as a local hub to foster community spirit, entrepreneurship, and creativity in this eclectic neighborhood.

5. Robert Mills

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,125
• Average home value: $231,000
• Great for: Families, professionals, history buffs, community activists

There’s no shortage of nice neighborhoods in Columbia, SC, but the Robert Mills Historic District is a particular gem. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the area is named after the renowned architect who designed the iconic Washington Monument and the historic Robert Mills House and Gardens —- which is open for guided tours. The neighborhood features a mix of architectural styles including Craftsman, Carpenter Gothic, Colonial Revival, and bungalow-style homes, many of which date back to the early to mid-19th century. 

And the population of Robert Mills is as diverse as the architecture. From professionals who appreciate a quick downtown commute to retirees looking to get involved with a vibrant community, residents run the gamut. The neighborhood association plays an active role in organizing community events, neighborhood clean-ups, and social gatherings that foster a strong sense of community pride.

Restaurants are varied and interesting, from the vegan and vegetarian Good Life Cafe (Pro tip: Get the salmon feta salad, with blueberries, strawberries, spinach, and poppyseed dressing) to Cafe Strudel, a family owned-and-run local chain that serves up yummy Southern-style cuisine.

If you’re looking to raise a family in Columbia, living in Forest Acres should be near the top of your list. 
(Source: Columbia, SC, Realtor, Candy Limehouse via Facebook)

7. West Columbia, SC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,200
• Average home value: $232,200
  
• Great for: Young professionals, families, retirees, students, shoppers, foodies

Just across the Congaree River from downtown, West Columbia (also known as Oak Grove) is a bustling district known for its scenic views of the Congaree River, eclectic boutiques, and dining options. A variety of housing options includes everything from historic homes to newer apartments, plus places popular with University of South Carolina students. 

A standout site is Brookland, a 19,000-square-foot, four-building live-work-play complex that quickly established itself as one of the best neighborhoods in Columbia, SC. Residents and visitors enjoy gorgeous views of the river, multiple courtyards, a rooftop terrace, several restaurants, and two apartment communities, 4 West and Brookland Apartments. Both offer vibrant urban living but with distinctive differences: The former has a trendy vibe, with easy access to all the activity on State Street, and the latter offers rentals in an upscale, more serene setting along the Riverwalk. 

Shopping in West Columbia is locally focused, with charming shops along the district’s busy State Street, including boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores offering unique gifts, home decor, and fashion. As for restaurants and entertainment, locals love Savage Craft Ale Works, a craft brewery and gastropub with outdoor dining-and-drinking tables and an interesting menu. For a fancier night out, Black Rooster at the Brookland complex is a hotspot for Italian cuisine and cocktails — plus a breathtaking rooftop view of the river. 

8. University Hill

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,100
• Average home value: $294,700
• Great for: Students, professors, recreation enthusiasts, sports fans

This Columbia district has the feel of a college town — because that’s what it is. As home to the University of South Carolina, University Hill has a rich historic flavor, like so much of the Columbia metro area, coupled with contemporary amenities and lots of coffee shops. Nightlife is a student priority, of course, and there’s plenty of it here. Venues include the massive Colonial Life Arena, where blockbuster touring acts and USC basketball teams take turns in the spotlight; theater-style spaces like The Senate; and smaller clubs including Tin Roof. 

As for housing, University Hill has lots of student-focused apartments, from fairly large communities to older historic homes split into multiple units. The district also features beautifully preserved and restored estates, where longtime residents include professors and other USC faculty.

9. Seven Oaks, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,100
• Average home value: $238,200
• Great for: Suburbanites, families, young professionals, lake enthusiasts

Seven Oaks is a well-established suburb in the northwest part of Columbia, about 10 miles from downtown, where residents get the best of both worlds: A peaceful, family-friendly area with the urban amenities of Columbia just a short drive away.

Parks and recreational facilities are easily accessible, including Seven Oaks Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. And the nearby Lake Murray is a popular summertime destination for boating, tubing, and fishing.

Schools in Seven Oaks are a big draw for families looking to move to the Columbia area. With high ratings for public schools and a variety of private options, as well, there’s bound to be a good fit for every student’s needs. A standout community resource is the Richland Library St. Andrews, which offers all the usual library goodies (books!) along with a shared garden and meeting spaces.

“We’re in the Whitehall subdivision — beautiful homes built in the 60s with very spacious yards, big trees, and a park with playground backs into the neighborhood.” - Seven Oaks resident

Looking to be in the heart of the action? Consider splurging a bit and living in downtown Columbia.

10. Downtown Columbia

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,175
• Average home value: $231,000
• Great for: Professionals, families, empty nesters

When potential Palmetto Staters ask, “Is Columbia, SC, a good place to live?” — all you have to do is point them toward downtown Soda City. The area has become a coveted destination for those seeking the Southern mix of historic charm and forward-looking energy. Thanks in part to the nearby USC campus, plus the past few decades’ influx of business and retail, downtown’s walkable streets and diverse attractions have made it one of the best places to live for professionals. 

As for housing, The Vista and the Main Street District both feature trendy loft-style residences appealing to all ages — including empty nesters looking for a vibrant city lifestyle. Along with all the cultural institutions like the Columbia Museum of Art and the nearby Koger Center for the Arts, outdoor spaces including Boyd Plaza host community gatherings — outdoor yoga and live jazz, for instance. And foodies are in heaven here with more than 50 dining options to keep all palettes satisfied. 

Columbia’s extraordinary growth goes on. With ongoing development projects, the district continues to attract residents seeking its blend of historic character and contemporary living in the heart of the capital city.

“Cola has miles and miles of scenic walking trails, including Saluda Shoals, which I love. I do love good food and we have some great spots. I love Soda City Market on Saturdays. And I think healthcare wise, with MUSC and Prisma, Lexington Medical and others, we stack up well.” - Downtown resident

PODS can help you move to Columbia, SC with flexible, containerized moving and storage solutions. 

Found Your Perfect Columbia Neighborhood?

Now that you’ve settled on where to live, it’s time to focus on the move — and PODS can make it so easy. Here’s how it works: A portable moving and storage container will arrive directly on your doorstep, giving you the flexibility to pack and load on your own schedule. And when you’re ready to lock up and head for Columbia, PODS will collect the container and deliver it to your new home. And a bonus: Each move includes a month of storage, so if you need extra time between residences — not a problem. 

Interested in exploring some Southern cities besides Columbia? Dive into the PODS Blog for the lowdown on cities like Charleston, SC, Nashville, TN, and Atlanta, GA. 

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.