Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina, is the state capital and the largest city in the state. Here are some key details about Columbia:

General Information

• Location: Central South Carolina
• Population: Approximately 136,000 (as of the 2020 census)
• Founded: 1786
• Named After: Christopher Columbus

Education

• Major Universities:
  • University of South Carolina (USC)
  • Columbia College
  • Midlands Technical College

Economy

• Major Industries:
  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Government
  • Military (Fort Jackson, a major U.S. Army training facility)
  • Manufacturing

Attractions

• Historic Sites:
  • South Carolina State House
  • Robert Mills House
  • South Carolina Confederate Relic Room & Military Museum
• Museums:
  • Columbia Museum of Art
  • South Carolina State Museum
  • EdVenture Children’s Museum
• Parks and Recreation:
  • Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
  • Congaree National Park
  • Finlay Park
  • Saluda Shoals Park

Climate

• Climate Type: Humid subtropical
• Average Temperatures:
  • Summer: Highs in the mid-90s °F (35 °C)
  • Winter: Highs in the mid-50s °F (13 °C)
  • Precipitation: Fairly evenly distributed throughout the year

Transportation

• Major Highways: I-26, I-20, and I-77
• Public Transit: The Comet (bus system)
• Airport: Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)

Culture and Events

• Annual Events:
  • South Carolina State Fair
  • Columbia Greek Festival
  • Indie Grits Film Festival
  • St. Pat’s in Five Points

Government

• City Government: Mayor-council government
• Mayor: Daniel Rickenmann (as of 2024)

Columbia is known for its vibrant arts scene, historical significance, and strong educational institutions. The city also serves as a hub for political, cultural, and economic activities in South Carolina.