2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Houston, TX vs Columbia, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Columbia older or younger than people in Houston?
- The Median Age in Columbia is 5.6 years older than in Houston.

Are housing costs cheaper in Columbia or Houston?
- Columbia housing costs are 7.9% more expensive than Houston housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Columbia or Houston?
- The average commute for residents of Columbia is 1.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Houston.

Things to do in Houston?
Houston, Texas is a bustling city full of energy and opportunity. Boasting a diverse population, rich culture, world-class entertainment and endless adventures - Houston has something for everyone! From the awe inspiring views of downtown's skyline to the expansive bayous and swamps, there’s always something new to explore. With its rich food scene, vibrant nightlife and fascinating historical attractions - Houston is a truly unforgettable destination.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, IL sits in Monroe County with a population close to 9,500 people. Here you can visit unique attractions such as Fort de Chartres State Historic Site boasting scenic vistas along the Mississippi River or go on leisurely strolls through LaRue Swamp Conservancy lined with various gardens & wetlands suitable for all ages!

 Houston, TXColumbia, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock11,090329,725,481
 Median Income$56,019  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$247,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Houston    371 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

I moved to Houston from the San Francisco Bay area in 1991 after college but I have always had family here. Houston is not what you think of when you think of Texas  More

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Over 4 years ago

There's definitely lots of jobs/economic opportunity. It's quite racially diverse if that's your thing. Houston has awful urban sprawl. Expect awful traffic. Hot as hell  More

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Over 4 years ago

There's definitely lots of jobs/economic opportunity. It's quite racially diverse if that's your thing. Houston has awful urban sprawl. Expect awful traffic. Hot as hell  More

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Reviews for Columbia    3 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

I actually live in the next town over, but work full-time in Columbia, and it's a really nice town. It is the walking-est city I have ever seen; people enjoy riding  More

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Over 18 years ago

Columbia,Illinois has to be the most stuck up and unfriendly little one horse town i've ever lived in . People here feel that if you weren't born and raised here  More

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Over 18 years ago

Columbia, Illinois is located at the northern tip of Monroe County in Southwestern Illinois only about 12 miles from downtown St. Louis. 20 miles from Scott Air Force  More

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