Cost of Living in Columbia, MO
Population: 127,200 • 2026 Data
$64,488
Median Household Income
-17% vs national
$1,067
Median Monthly Rent
-21% vs national
$268,300
Median Home Value
-21% vs national
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Columbia
The median home value in Columbia, MO is $268,300. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,067, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,114.
Rent-to-income ratio: 19.9%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Columbia, MO is $64,488. The unemployment rate stands at 3.9%, with a labor force of 69,265 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.