Columbia, MO Homes For Rent

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

Columbia, located in central Missouri, is not just a college town. As the home of two private colleges and one state university, it’s an academic center worthy of the nickname “Athens of Missouri.” 

The Local History 

In 1819, Columbia was originally called Smithton. Inadequate water supply forced the town to move close to Flat Branch Creek in 1821, when it was renamed Columbia and became the seat of Boone County. The city was incorporated in November 1826. Early residents, keen on making their hometown an educational center, pledged $117,900 for the establishment of a state university. The University of Missouri was founded in 1839. It’s the oldest state university west of the Mississippi River.

Schools and Higher Education

Downtown Columbia is the site not of one but three institutions of higher education: University of Missouri-Columbia (12,080 students), the flagship campus of the University of Missouri system, Stephens College (founded in 1833), and Columbia College (founded in 1851). In all, there are 28 colleges and universities within 100 miles of the city. In primary and secondary education, Columbia has 35 public schools, serving 18,275 students. Columbia public schools boast of an average math proficiency score of 43% versus the Missouri average of 42%, and reading proficiency score of 48% compared with the 49% statewide average.

The Cost of Living in Columbia

Columbia is a budget-friendly city with a population of 123,195. Its cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 8.3%, 0.3%, and 15.1% lower than the national average respectively. The city’s median gross rent is $854; the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $771. In Missouri, you’ll be paying 0% to 5.40% in income tax depending on your earnings, and 4.225% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

City residents say their hometown is bike-friendly, easy to navigate, and has great amenities. More than half of all residents rent. If you want some distance from downtown action but wish to stay close, Missouri Township is just outside Columbia, and it has great schools. Ashland is within commuting distance of the city, and it also has superb schools. It’s the kind of small community where residents feel confident to leave their doors unlocked.

Job Opportunities

Education, health care, and insurance industries are the primary drivers of Columbia’s economy. The University of Missouri is the city’s top employer with about 12,000 employees and another 4,500 people who work for University Hospitals and Clinics. Other key employers are Columbia Public Schools, Boone Hospital Center, Shelter Insurance and, State Farm Insurance.