2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Sterling, VA vs Columbia, SC

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Highlights
Are people in Columbia older or younger than people in Sterling?
- The Median Age in Columbia is 6.2 years younger than in Sterling.

Are housing costs cheaper in Columbia or Sterling?
- Columbia housing costs are 64.3% less expensive than Sterling housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Columbia or Sterling?
- The average commute for residents of Columbia is 11.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Sterling.

Things to do in Sterling?
Sterling, VA is a bustling community located in the heart of Loudon County, just outside of Washington DC. It's known for its charming downtown area with top-tier dining and shopping options. The town also features plenty of parks and recreational activities to enjoy, such as horseback riding and fishing at nearby Algonkian Regional Park.

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.

 Sterling, VAColumbia, SCUnited States
 Population  Unlock137,276329,725,481
 Median Income$110,915  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock28.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$571,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.4  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sterling    0 Reviews

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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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