Columbia, SC Is Similar & Offers a Good Alternativ
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11/19/2006
I've lived in Columbia, SC for 14 of the past 16 years. I've often considered Richmond, VA, but Columbia has grown on me and my family and without a doubt is heading in the right direction. Richmond and Columbia are very similar - state capitals, centrally located, with easy access to the mountains and the beach. Richmond has the advantage in weather, access to D.C. and a superior public university (U.VA), but I believe Columbia has a major advantage in that her citizens get along, meaning race relations are very good. As an example, an African-American female has twice been elected to one of the at-large city council seats, even though the majority of Columbia's citizens are white. The citizens have judged her based on her qualifications, as it should be.
My family and I live close to downtown in one of Columbia's many beautiful neighborhoods. The quality of life is excellent! The citizens are friendly and the cost of living is very reasonable. The schools for which we are zoned are excellent, with the high school offering the I. B. curriculum.
For the past 6 years, Columbia has seen increasing investments in her core areas. The Univ. of SC has begun developing its Innovista Campus (hydrogen fuel cell research, etc.) as well. Columbia has finally reached the point that people outside the state are taking notice. While Richmond is an excellent city, I believe Columbia has the advantage going forward.
Reed | Columbia, SC