2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, MO vs Ruston, LA

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Highlights
Are people in Ruston older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Ruston is 5.1 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ruston or Columbia?
- Ruston housing costs are 27.5% less expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ruston or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Ruston is 2.3 minutes shorter 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 Ruston?
Ruston, LA Ruston is a city located in Lincoln Parish in Northwest Louisiana. Home to Louisiana Tech University, Ruston offers an array of cultural attractions from museums and art galleries to historical sites dating back to before the Civil War era. Ruston's charming downtown area provides plenty of options for dining and entertainment while its outdoor activities include golf courses, walking trails and more than 16 parks that are perfect for outdoor recreation or simply appreciating nature at its best.

 Columbia, MORuston, LAUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,286329,725,481
 Median Income$57,463  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$269,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.7%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

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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

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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

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Reviews for Ruston    2 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

Back stabbing little town you want get anywhere with out knowing people or have  More

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Very difficult to find a job here if you’re not hired by the university. When my husband got a job with the university, I didn’t think it would be so difficult for me  More

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