2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, SC vs Aiken, SC

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Highlights
Are people in Aiken older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in Aiken is 18.4 years older than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in Aiken or Columbia?
- Aiken housing costs are 5.2% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Aiken or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of Aiken is 7.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, South Carolina is the state's vibrant capital city. Nestled in the Midlands area of the state, it offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its popular Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to its nearby lakes and rivers, there are plenty of outdoor activities available to explore. Inside the city limits, you can find museums, a bustling downtown area with restaurants and shops, great schools and universities, and more. With its colorful history and unique culture, Columbia is sure to offer something for everyone.

Things to do in Aiken?
Aiken SC seats southwest North Augusta well-known among tourists thanks to its variety of activities like horse riding, golfing at Woodside Plantation Country Club or exploring nearby Hitchcock Woods giving vacationers a chance relax in the nature’s beauty!

 Columbia, SCAiken, SCUnited States
 Population  Unlock31,516329,725,481
 Median Income$48,791  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$204,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbia    50 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I love living in Columbia! I recently graduated from USC and plan to stay. I read the reviews posted here and it shows that like many cities, your experience will depend  More

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Loved living in Columbia, SC prior to my job transfer. It's the perfect size - plenty to do, but still a laid back place. People are extremely friendly, there are  More

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Columbia is such a unique and underrated place. It has a lot of character and history, and good nature trails. Everything feels accessible (by car) and you can get from  More

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Reviews for Aiken    34 Reviews

I'm going on 3 years living in Aiken. Moving here not having any family or friends was difficult. I'm thankful for the people I have met who now feel like lifelong  More

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Aiken is a magical place. It is beautiful and historic, has all the amenities, and Hitchcock Woods is a treasure! I feel blessed to have lived in Aiken for 3 years. As a  More

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Aiken is a unique town to visit or live in. I've lived in Toronto, ON Canada, Lynchburg, VA and in Aiken. I am 24 years old and moved here from VA just over two years  More

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