Columbia, MO Rent To Own Homes

Rent-to-Own Homes in Columbia, MO: What You Need to Know

Columbia, Missouri is a thriving city full of opportunities. Many young professionals have flocked here to settle and start their adult lives. The cost of living is low and the job market is strong and prosperous. The schools are some of the best in the state and the weather is beautiful and diverse. The neighborhoods surrounding the city are popular among families looking to raise their children away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

What is the Cost of Living in Columbia, MO?

One of the major draws of Columbia is the low cost of living. It is 7% less expensive to live here when compared to the national average. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare all cost less than the national average. Housing is 18% cheaper, as well. The median home price is $283,000. However, just over half of residents prefer to rent their homes, rather than buy. Studio apartments average $590, one-bedrooms are $655, and two-bedrooms are $800 per month. Larger apartments cost more but rarely go over $1,5000.

Job Opportunities in Columbia, MO 

Columbia has a strong job market and is considered “recession-resistant.” The major industries to consider are education, health care, and insurance. The average salary for a Columbia resident is $56,000 per year. The unemployment rate is just 3.0%, well under the national average.

Schools and Higher Education

For those with, or interested in having, children, Columbia is the place for you! The schools here are notoriously excellent. There are 35 public schools in the Columbia 93 School District, educating 18,000 students. These schools are consistently ranked some of the best in the state, as part of the top 30% of schools in Missouri. There are also 20 private schools available here, teaching nearly 10,000 students.

If you are seeking out higher education, Columbia has 3 colleges within the city and 28 colleges within a 100-mile radius: Columbia College, University of Missouri Columbia, and Stephens College.

Weather and Climate

Residents of Columbia enjoy a continental climate, meaning the summers are hot and humid, while winters are brutally cold and windy. It is partly cloudy all year. It rains for 96 days, accumulating 9” annually. May is the wettest month out of the year. It snows 17 days, gathering only 2”. The coldest month is January, with temperatures often dipping down to 37°F. July is the warmest month, with an average peak of 88°F.

What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Columbia, MO? 

Home to nearly 3,000 people, Fayette is the perfect blend of suburban and rural. Many young professionals and retirees have settled here. The median home value is $95,000 and the majority of residents own their homes. The median rent is $758.

California is a quiet suburban town with just 4,000 residents, many of whom are families, young professionals, and retirees. The median home value is $111,000 and just over half the residents own their homes. The median rent is $605.

Just over 8,000 people live in Boonville. Boonville is a quiet suburban town with good public schools. The median home value is $113,000 and just over half the residents own their homes. The median rent is $676.