The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Columbia, Missouri

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Are you considering a move to Columbia, Missouri? If so, you’re in for a treat! This charming city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and appeal. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best neighborhoods in Columbia, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about where to settle down. So, let’s dive in and discover what makes these neighborhoods stand out from the rest!

1. Old Southwest

Old Southwest is a historic neighborhood that boasts beautiful tree-lined streets and a mix of architectural styles, including Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial Revival homes. This area is perfect for those who appreciate a sense of history and a strong sense of community. With its close proximity to the University of Missouri and downtown Columbia, Old Southwest offers a convenient location for both work and play.

• Close to the University of Missouri and downtown
• Historic homes and tree-lined streets
• Strong sense of community

2. East Campus

Located just east of the University of Missouri, East Campus is a popular choice for students, faculty, and staff. This neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes. With its walkable streets and easy access to campus amenities, East Campus is an ideal location for those seeking a vibrant, College-town atmosphere.

• Popular with students and university staff
• Walkable streets and easy access to campus
• Varied housing options

3. Grasslands

Grasslands is an upscale neighborhood located near the University of Missouri and downtown Columbia. This area is known for its large, elegant homes and well-maintained lawns. With its quiet streets and close proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Grasslands is a great choice for families and professionals alike.

• Upscale homes and well-maintained lawns
• Close to shopping, dining, and entertainment
• Quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere

4. Benton-Stephens

Benton-Stephens is a diverse and affordable neighborhood located just north of downtown Columbia. This area offers a mix of housing options, including historic homes, apartments, and duplexes. With its close proximity to Stephens College and the University of Missouri, Benton-Stephens is a popular choice for students and young professionals.

• Affordable housing options
• Close to Stephens College and the University of Missouri
• Diverse community

5. Thornbrook

Thornbrook is a newer, upscale neighborhood located in southwest Columbia. This area features large, custom-built homes and a strong sense of community. With its excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, Thornbrook is an ideal choice for families seeking a high-quality lifestyle.

• Upscale, custom-built homes
• Excellent schools and recreational facilities
• Strong sense of community

6. Cherry Hill

Cherry Hill is a master-planned community located in southwest Columbia. This neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. With its well-maintained parks, trails, and green spaces, Cherry Hill is perfect for those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.

• Master-planned community
• Varied housing options
• Parks, trails, and green spaces

7. Woodridge

Woodridge is a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood located in Southeast Columbia. This area features a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, with many properties backing onto wooded areas or green spaces. With its excellent schools and close proximity to shopping and dining options, Woodridge is a great choice for families and professionals alike.

• Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere
• Close to shopping and dining
• Excellent schools

8. The Village of Bedford Walk

The Village of Bedford Walk is a luxury, 55+ community located in south Columbia. This neighborhood offers a range of upscale housing options, including single-family homes, villas, and apartments. With its resort-style amenities, such as a clubhouse, pool, and fitness center, The Village of Bedford Walk is perfect for those seeking an active, maintenance-free lifestyle.

• Luxury 55+ community
• Resort-style amenities
• Upscale housing options

9. Beulah Ralph

Beulah Ralph is a newer neighborhood located in southwest Columbia. This area features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, with many properties offering modern amenities and energy-efficient features. With its excellent schools and close proximity to parks and recreational facilities, Beulah Ralph is a great choice for families and young professionals.

• Newer neighborhood with modern amenities
• Excellent schools
• Close to parks and recreational facilities

10. Smithton

Smithton is a historic neighborhood located in West Columbia. This area offers a mix of housing options, including historic homes, apartments, and duplexes. With its close proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Smithton is a popular choice for those seeking a convenient, urban lifestyle.

• Historic neighborhood
• Close to shopping, dining, and entertainment
• Varied housing options

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the cost of living in Columbia, Missouri?

A: The cost of living in Columbia is slightly lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for families, students, and professionals alike.

Q: What are the top employers in Columbia, Missouri?

A: The top employers in Columbia include the University of Missouri, Boone Hospital Center, and the City of Columbia.

Q: What is the climate like in Columbia, Missouri?

A: Columbia experiences a mix of hot summers and cold winters, with moderate spring and fall seasons. The city receives an average of 42 inches of rain and 16 inches of snow per year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Columbia, Missouri offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets. From historic Old Southwest to the upscale Grasslands, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. With its excellent schools, thriving job market, and affordable cost of living, Columbia is an ideal place to call home. So, whether you’re a student, a young professional, or a family looking for a new place to settle down, consider one of these 10 best neighborhoods in Columbia, Missouri for your next move!