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-Nestled between Baltimore and Washington D.C., Columbia showcases the success of thoughtful community planning with its distinctive network of villages, each featuring its own shopping centers, schools, and recreation facilities. The city's extensive outdoor offerings include over 80 miles of walking paths connecting three scenic lakes - Lake Kittamaqundi, Wilde Lake, and Lake Elkhorn - while preserving abundant green spaces throughout the community. Residents enjoy the convenience of having homes, townhomes, and apartment buildings within walking distance of daily necessities.
Renters find diverse housing options throughout Columbia's ten villages, from garden-style apartments to townhomes and single-family rental homes. Each village maintains its own distinct atmosphere - Wilde Lake offers established neighborhoods surrounding its namesake lake, while River Hill features contemporary designs and amenities. The Downtown Columbia area buzzes with activity, anchored by The Mall in Columbia and the renowned Merriweather Post Pavilion outdoor music venue, both easily accessible from nearby residential areas.
Columbia's position between two major cities puts residents within reach of significant employment centers. The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and Fort Meade are just minutes away, while the Gateway Business Park continues to expand with new opportunities. Commuters can easily reach Baltimore (25 miles northeast) or Washington D.C. (30 miles southwest) via I-95 or regular commuter bus service. The area is served by the highly regarded Howard County Library System and Howard County Public Schools, adding to Columbia's appeal as a well-connected community that balances accessibility with comfortable living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Average Rent Rates
What's the average rent for an apartment in Columbia, MD?
Apartment averages in Columbia, MD varies based on size.
- $1,871 for a 1-bedroom apartment in Columbia, MD
- $2,145 for a 2-bedroom apartment in Columbia, MD
- $2,653 for a 3-bedroom apartment in Columbia, MD
- $3,115 for a 4-bedroom apartment in Columbia, MD
Rental Requirements
Can I find a cheap apartment in Columbia, MD?
There are 165 cheap apartments in Columbia, MD priced as low as $1,871
Can I find a short-term apartment in Columbia, MD?
There are 741 short-term apartments in Columbia, MD.
Transportation
How do people usually get around Columbia, MD?
Residents in Columbia, MD usually get around by car. According to Walk Score, Columbia, MD falls within the Car Dependent range.
Education
What colleges and universities are in Columbia, MD?
If you’re a college or university student moving to Columbia, MD, ForRent.com can help you find a rental near Howard Community College, CCBC Cantonsville-CCBC Cantonsville, UMBC and others.
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Columbia Apartments by Amenity
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Columbia Neighborhoods with Apartments
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Apartments near Colleges in Columbia
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