2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, MD vs Richmond, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Richmond older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Richmond is 4.5 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Richmond or Columbia?
- Richmond housing costs are 26.0% less expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Richmond or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Richmond is 8.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Columbia.

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!

Things to do in Richmond?
Richmond, Virginia is a vibrant city with plenty of activities for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts will love visiting Maymont Park or Belle Isle for some nature-filled fun. Meanwhile, art and history buffs can explore the exhibits at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts or the Virginia Historical Society. Sports fans can cheer on teams like the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team and the Richmond Spiders football team. Those looking to explore some local cuisine should visit Broad Street Market while music lovers can take in a show at The National. From outdoor adventures to cultural exploration, there's something for everyone in Richmond!

 Columbia, MDRichmond, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock225,676329,725,481
 Median Income$113,592  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$441,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.58  Unlock26.38
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

Reviews for Richmond    109 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

Lived here for a year and it’s not perfect but it’s constantly improving now (areas redevloped, more businesses, job growth). Cost of living is great compared to  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

We love Richmond so much that when we talk about where we'd like to live if we could live anywhere in the US, we always come back to RVA. We live in the city proper  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I'm an out-of-towner but am coming up on 1 year in Richmond. I would summarize it this way: the best thing and the worst thing about Richmond is its location. I'll  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Richmond


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.