2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, MO vs Johnston, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Johnston older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Johnston is 8.5 years older than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Johnston or Columbia?
- Johnston housing costs are 29.2% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Johnston or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Johnston is 3.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, Missouri is a vibrant city in the heart of Mid-Missouri. It's home to the University of Missouri, making it an ideal destination for both students and visiting families alike. Boasting its own symphony orchestra, plenty of amazing restaurants, and outdoor recreational activities like the Katy Trail and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Columbia. From art galleries to festivals and concerts, Columbia is an arts-filled community that celebrates culture year-round. Whether you are looking for a place to call home or just some entertainment, Columbia won't disappoint!

Things to do in Johnston?
Johnston is located in Polk County, Iowa, and is part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines metropolitan area. With a population of 20,619, it is the third largest city in Iowa's Polk County. Johnston features many recreational amenities like parks and trails as well as numerous educational facilities such as the Johnston Public Library and Johnston High School.

 Columbia, MOJohnston, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock23,418329,725,481
 Median Income$57,463  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$269,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.46  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbia    41 Reviews

If you are an active person and love to be outdoors and go to college sporting events, Columbia is a great place to live! I run and bike and go to Mizzou events a lot. I  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I've live in CoMo for 20 yrs. NOT sure about this state of the art water park??!! There are great parks but nothing else for families. NO zoo, museum, and definitely no  More

   |    Reply

I lived there for a year and hated every minute. Columbia reminded me of the San Francisco of the Midwest. It is overrun with homeless people. Law enforcement is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Columbia

Reviews for Johnston    2 Reviews

Over 6 years ago

Strong National Guard presence and very family-friendly. The library is the best one that I've ever visited. We moved here for the Army two years ago and will be leaving  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Everyone here is rich. Really, really,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Johnston


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.