Why CoMo is Attractive

Five reasons that contribute to Columbia, Missouri’s appeal as an attractive place to live are its vibrant college town atmosphere, flourishing economy, abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, and rich cultural landscape.

Scroll

Education

First, Columbia is recognized as the best college town in Missouri, centered around the University of Missouri (Mizzou). This creates a dynamic environment, attracting students and academics from around the globe, and fosters innovation, creativity, and a sense of community. The presence of the university influences the city’s identity through cultural events, research, and a thriving social scene. The city is also praised for its blend of academic rigor, history, and growth, according to WorldAtlas.

Affordable Homes

Second, Columbia’s cost of living is 10% below the national average. Housing is significantly more affordable than national averages, making homeownership and renting accessible for various income levels.

Healthcare and Technology

Third, Columbia boasts a strong and diverse economy with a low unemployment rate. This is driven by key industries such as education, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing. The University of Missouri significantly contributes to the local economy, generating billions of dollars and supporting thousands of jobs. Columbia’s strategic location on major transportation routes like Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63 also makes it an attractive spot for businesses.

Refreshing and Green Environment

Fourth, Columbia is known for its plentiful parks, trails, and green spaces, catering to outdoor enthusiasts. These areas offer a variety of activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Notable examples include the MKT Nature & Fitness Trail, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, and Stephens Lake Park. According to the City of Columbia, Missouri website, the city maintains numerous parks and recreation facilities, including pools, disc golf courses, tennis courts, and picnic shelters.

Shops, Restaurants and Entertainment

Finally, Columbia offers a rich and diverse arts and culture scene. This includes a vibrant downtown area known as The District, which is home to shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, like the True/False Film Fest and the Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival. Furthermore, Columbia features numerous art galleries, theaters, music venues, and historical sites, providing a wide range of cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike. All in all, Columbia offers everything you could want in a mid-size city.