2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Altoona, PA vs Columbia, MD

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Columbia older or younger than people in Altoona?
- The Median Age in Columbia is 0.7 years younger than in Altoona.

Are housing costs cheaper in Columbia or Altoona?
- Columbia housing costs are 270.0% more expensive than Altoona housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Columbia or Altoona?
- The average commute for residents of Columbia is 12.6 minutes longer than it is for residents of Altoona.

Things to do in Altoona?
Altoona, Pennsylvania lies within Blair County giving visitors access to Adventure Lagoon Water Park or Baker Mansion plus multiple restaurants like Chewy's Pizza & Wings Bar & Grill

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, Maryland is a vibrant city located in Howard County. From its lush green parks to its many cultural attractions, Columbia has something for everyone! Visitors can explore outdoor activities like Tribble Mill Park or take in some culture at sites like the Robinson Nature Center. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like The Mall in Columbia or the Banneker Historical Park. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Quarry Lake Restaurant & Bar or Bob Evans. With so much to offer, Columbia is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

 Altoona, PAColumbia, MDUnited States
 Population  Unlock105,086329,725,481
 Median Income$46,010  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$119,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.96  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Altoona    11 Reviews

Sun rises and sets over 2000+ ft. mountains, which does seem to shorten your summer days. It gets hot and humid in the summer, with not a lot of wind or airflow,  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

Though the climate in Altoona is cold in the Winter, it does often get less snow than Western Pennsylvania because of the Allegheny Front mountain range just to the west  More

   |    Reply

I grew up in Hollidaysburg near Altoona. The city has had its ups and downs throughout the years but all in all I think that central PA has the most beautiful scenery  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Altoona

Reviews for Columbia    28 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

Lived here for a while, beautiful opportunities, pays well, overall nice  More

   |    Reply

Been here 30 years was great at first but once they added a transit bus from baltimore to columbia 15-18 years ago that was the beginning of the end. And about 5 years  More

   |    Reply

Columbia can be described in one word: unequal. The neighborhood I live in, River Hill, is jam-packed with almost million-dollar homes, while the neighborhoods of Long  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Columbia


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.