Columbia, SC, stands out with a rich history and Southern charm. As the capital of South Carolina, you’ll find the city has a thriving arts and culture scene, undoubtedly drawing residents from across the state and beyond. Columbia’s neighborhoods match this welcoming feeling, offering a place for everyone. If you’re looking to rent an apartment, the average rent in Columbia is $1,517, while the median home sale price is $263,000.
If you’re not sure what neighborhood to call home, at Redfin, we’ve collected 10 popular Columbia neighborhoods to explore this year. Whether you’re looking for a historic home in Arsenal Hill or a modern apartment in Columbia, this city has neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle.
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Arsenal Hill has a historic charm and is in proximity to Downtown’s attractions. This neighborhood is one of Columbus’ first neighborhoods and features the historic Governor’s Mansion. In Arsenal Hill, you’ll find several parks, including Finlay Park, which offers beautiful green spaces and hosts various events throughout the year. The neighborhood showcases a blend of historic homes, including Victorian and Craftsman-style houses, and modern condos and apartments.
Median Sale Price: $515,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,300 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,450
Earlewood is a charming neighborhood just north of downtown and is conveniently located near major highways and the city center. The area has a mix of tree-lined streets and historic homes, creating a picturesque setting for residents. The neighborhood is also close to popular attractions such as the Broad River Trail and Earlewood Park, offering plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Earlewood features a variety of housing types, including historic bungalows, cottages, and ranch-style homes.
Elmwood Park is a vibrant neighborhood located south of Earlewood. It’s just north of downtown, so this community has easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Elmwood Park is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces. You can also explore the nearby Riverwalk, a scenic trail along the Congaree River. The neighborhood showcases a blend of historic homes, including Colonial Revival and Tudor-style houses, as well as modern apartments and townhouses.
Median Sale Price: $415,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,124 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,349
Hyatt Park offers a peaceful residential setting with easy access to city amenities. Residents can enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to parks, including Hyatt Park itself, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Whether you’re looking for a ranch-style house or purchasing a larger property, Hyatt Park provides a range of housing options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Median Sale Price: $135,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,050 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,125
Old Shandon is a historic neighborhood just east of downtown. This community has a great location with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Old Shandon is known for its tree-lined streets and well-preserved historic homes, creating a charming and picturesque atmosphere. The neighborhood is also close to popular attractions such as the University of South Carolina and Five Points.
Old Shandon features a variety of architectural styles, including Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman. The neighborhood’s historic homes showcase unique details and craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Rosewood is a vibrant neighborhood south of downtown. Residents can enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to popular destinations such as Williams-Brice Stadium and the State Fairgrounds. Rosewood offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. The architectural styles in the neighborhood range from traditional bungalows to more modern designs.
Sherwood Forest is a picturesque residential neighborhood with easy access to city amenities. The area has lush greenery and well-maintained homes, creating a peaceful and inviting atmosphere. The neighborhood is also close to popular parks, including the W. Gordon Belser Arboretum, which offers walking trails and gorgeous nature views. Sherwood Forest features a variety of architectural styles, including ranch-style houses and traditional two-story homes.
The Congaree Vista is a vibrant neighborhood located in downtown Columbia near the Congaree River. This community offers a lively atmosphere with a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces. The Congaree Vista is known for its vibrant dining scene, featuring a variety of restaurants and bars. Residents can also enjoy the neighborhood’s proximity to popular attractions such as the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center and the Riverfront Park.
The Congaree Vista offers many housing options, including modern condos and apartments – the architectural styles in the neighborhood range from sleek and contemporary designs to more traditional brick facades.
Median Sale Price: $515,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,300 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,450
University Hill is located next to the University of South Carolina and has a vibrant college atmosphere. Major attractions in the area include the The Horseshoe and Gibbes Green, both parks located on the university’s campus. Residents can also enjoy the nearby Maxcy Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails and a pool. University Hill features a mix of housing types, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Architectural styles in the neighborhood range from traditional Southern homes to modern designs.
Median Sale Price: $187,000
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,575 | Average Rent for 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,750
Wales Garden is a popular neighborhood located south of University Hill. This area offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a great option to consider living in. Residents can explore the nearby Five Points district, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Wales Garden is characterized by its stunning historic homes, many of which date back to the early 20th century. The architectural styles in this neighborhood range from Colonial Revival to Tudor Revival, showcasing the area’s rich history.
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during November 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com during November 2023.
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Serving homebuyers and sellers in the South Carolina area, Neysa Molle is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater South Carolina area, Neysa Molle possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.