What makes Columbia a smart place to locate, start something or expand? The very things you’re looking for: low costs, a talented labor pool, high quality of life, central location and outstanding transportation infrastructure — plus incentives that give companies of all sizes a competitive edge.
Crash Course Columbia aims to develop local champions who will connect with the fabric of our region’s culture, take part in the forward-movement of the community and choose to stay in Columbia.
Learn More
With a low cost of doing business, excellent local support and a thriving creative community of entrepreneurs, the City of Columbia is the place to be in a state ranked #1 for small business optimism.
Learn More
To view a map of local businesses along with status updates, hours of operation, contact information, and an opportunity to shop virtually or in-person safely with your favorite businesses.
Learn More10
Ranked top 10 lowest start-up costs in the nation
$42k
Average Salary
#1
USC's International MBA Ranking in the US
$0
No state tax, property tax or local income tax for businesses
With a highly skilled workforce already in place and thousands of college graduates joining that talent pool every year, we’re a smart place for business from many perspectives. We’re also the capital city in a state known for helping companies succeed in the global marketplace.
Our central location gives you easy access to the world’s major markets by air, land and sea. We’re been rated a Top 5 U.S. city for highway connectivity, with a network that includes 4 interstates. The Port of Charleston is less than 2 hours away.
Learn More >>We’re home to a nationally ranked research university that includes a law school and medical school—producing a highly educated talent pool and providing exceptional research opportunities and expertise. Additionally, Columbia has six other diverse higher education institutions more than any other region in the state.
Learn More >>Businesses, investors and developers can take advantage of tax incentives for properties across 8 contiguous census tracts that range from the largest downtown redevelopment project east of the Mississippi to commercial buildings and acreage with easy access to interstates.
Learn More >>With one of the nation’s most skilled digital workforces already in place, we also provide quick response to recruit and train to meet any needs, thanks to readySC—counted on by BMW, GE, Nephron Pharmaceuticals and other major employers.
Learn More >>
“Everywhere you go, you get the sense the city is enjoying itself.” - Atlanta Magazine, “48 Hours in Cola”
Our location in the heart of South Carolina puts us in the middle of everything great our state has to offer. It starts in our downtown districts bursting with the arts, entertainment, restaurants, festivals, sporting events and more. That energetic urban vibe is balanced with charming, tree-lined neighborhoods and plenty of outdoor recreation options, including parks with access to the three rivers that converge just blocks from downtown. With mild winters, affordable housing, and easy commutes, life in Columbia is low on stress and high in quality. You’re also within a few hours drive of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the coast and the cities of Charlotte and Atlanta.
$142,700
Average home price (median sale price)
16 Mins
Average Commute
75.6°/53.9°
Average high and low temperature
49
Number of outdoor parks within the city limits
The word is out: Columbia is moving forward and big things are happening. Let us help you be a part of this phenomenal growth.
Columbia Economic Development (CED) makes doing business in Columbia easy for you. We can help with: