Columbia, with a metropolitan population of more
than 500,000, combines the advantages of a progressive, growing area with
the pace of a smaller city. Residents enjoy temperate seasons with mild
winters. In the spring, dogwood and azalea create a profusion of color.
Located at the intersection of three major interstate highways, Columbia
is midway between Miami and New York. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is
served by six airlines; Amtrak and Greyhound also provide passenger
service.
At the geographic center of South Carolina, Columbia is the base of state
government as well as headquarters for numerous state and regional
businesses. The area boasts some of South Carolina’s most outstanding
public schools. Four out of five district secondary schools and two
elementary schools in the Greater Columbia region have been named model
schools by the United States Department of Education. Seven institutions
of higher education and six medical institutions serve the metropolitan
area. Moderately priced rental housing is readily available with choices
ranging from high-rise condominiums to quiet suburban neighborhoods,
perfect for families. Greater Columbia’s housing costs are among the
lowest in the country.
The Columbia area offers a variety of recreational opportunities for the
outdoor enthusiast. There are several large lakes nearby, as well as the
Congaree River; the ocean is just two hours away. Sailing is a year-round
pastime and other water sports are equally popular. Campers and hikers
enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains, just three hours away. One of Columbia’s
most popular spots is Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
As a cultural center in South Carolina, the city is home to a philharmonic
orchestra, a symphony, ballet and dance companies, theaters, and
galleries. The Columbia Museum of Art contains an important part of the
Kress Collection of Renaissance art. The State Museum, one of the largest
in the South, features art, history, science and technology exhibits, and
special South Carolina-related displays. Throughout the year, outdoor
festivals provide additional leisure activity.
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