2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Shady Side, MD vs Columbia, MD

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Highlights
Are people in Columbia older or younger than people in Shady Side?
- The Median Age in Columbia is 10.1 years younger than in Shady Side.

Are housing costs cheaper in Columbia or Shady Side?
- Columbia housing costs are 22.3% more expensive than Shady Side housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Columbia or Shady Side?
- The average commute for residents of Columbia is 9.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Shady Side.

Things to do in Shady Side?
Shady Side, MD is a beautiful small town located on the Chesapeake Bay. It offers a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Residents here have easy access to fishing and crabbing along its shores, as well as boating and kayaking in the bay. The town's quaint downtown area has several local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and other services that make life here enjoyable. With its mild climate and vibrant community culture, Shady Side is the perfect place for anyone looking for a slower pace of living with access to all the amenities of city life nearby.

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!

 Shady Side, MDColumbia, MDUnited States
 Population  Unlock105,086329,725,481
 Median Income$118,125  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$361,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time40.03  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Shady Side    2 Reviews

Shady Side, like most of South Anne Arundel County, is a tight-knit community. I moved here for almost 9 years ago without knowing anyone in the area. It wasn't until  More

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I have lived in the Shady Side area for 13 years. The contrast of rain and snowfall between the southern part of Anne Arundel County, Washington DC, Fairfax County VA,  More

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Reviews for Columbia    28 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

Lived here for a while, beautiful opportunities, pays well, overall nice  More

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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

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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

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