Columbia, SC, December 16, 2025
Columbia, South Carolina, showcases economic resilience and housing stability, ranking No. 18 in the U.S. housing market. While nearby Charlotte experiences a decline, Columbia’s job growth, low unemployment, and diverse industries contribute to an appealing environment for residents and entrepreneurs, fostering sustained growth and opportunity.
Columbia Thrives: Navigating Shifting Housing Markets with Resilience and Growth
As the regional economic landscape continues its dynamic evolution, Columbia, South Carolina, stands out with a compelling narrative of growth and opportunity. While nearby metropolitan areas experience shifts in housing market rankings, the Midlands maintains a steady course, buoyed by a robust entrepreneurial spirit and a welcoming business environment.
This dynamic period highlights the strength of local economic fundamentals and the strategic advantages that empower South Carolina entrepreneurs and residents. Focusing on innovation, small-business resilience, and community-driven initiatives ensures that Columbia not only navigates broader trends but actively cultivates an environment where personal achievement and economic expansion can flourish.
Regional Housing Market Dynamics: A Tale of Two Carolinas
The real estate market is a constant barometer of economic health, and recent forecasts for 2026 present a nuanced picture across the Carolinas. Realtor.com’s annual ranking of the nation’s top housing markets, which considers the 100 largest U.S. metro areas based on combined expected growth in home prices and sales, showed Charlotte, North Carolina, slipping to No. 70 in 2026, a decline from its No. 14 position last year. This shift is partly attributed to a projected 2.4% year-over-year fall in existing home sales in Charlotte for 2026. However, economists suggest there is no “major cause for concern” for Charlotte, indicating that a slight improvement in affordability may benefit consumers in the long run.
In contrast, Columbia, South Carolina, showcases a remarkably strong position within the same Realtor.com 2026 Housing Forecast, ranking at No. 18 among the 100 largest U.S. metros. For Columbia, existing-home sales are projected to see a 0.3% increase year-over-year, coupled with a 7.2% increase in existing-home median sale price year-over-year, leading to a combined growth of 7.5%. This performance underscores Columbia’s stability and appeal as a prime location in the Southeast. Further reinforcing this positive outlook, Zillow predicts a 2.5% increase in home values from January 2025 to January 2026 for the Columbia, SC metro area.
Adding another perspective, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) included Charlotte, North Carolina, alongside Charleston and Raleigh, in its “Top 10 Housing Hot Spots for 2026.” NAR’s analysis considers factors such as strong demand potential, projected improvements in affordability, and a housing stock that aligns with buyers’ budgets. This dual perspective for Charlotte—a drop in one ranking measuring price and sales growth, but inclusion in another highlighting affordability and demand—illustrates the multifaceted nature of real estate market evaluations.
Columbia’s Steadfast Economic Engine
Columbia’s housing market stability is a direct reflection of its underlying economic strength. The city boasts very low unemployment figures, with rates typically running less than 4 percent. This robust job market provides a solid foundation for sustained demand in the housing sector. Job growth throughout Columbia tracks with the rest of the country, ensuring a healthy environment for both established businesses and new ventures.
The Columbia economy is diversified across several key sectors. Top industries in Columbia include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, insurance information and technology, green energy production, transportation and logistics, and research, development, and discovery. This blend of traditional and forward-looking industries fosters a resilient economic base, attracting a diverse workforce and supporting ongoing growth across Richland County.
Fostering Entrepreneurial Innovation and Small-Business Resilience
South Carolina has cultivated an exceptionally supportive climate for businesses. The state is ranked #1 in the U.S. for incentive programs, a testament to its commitment to attracting and nurturing economic activity. Furthermore, South Carolina stands as the #1 state for small business optimism. These State-level accolades translate into a dynamic local landscape where South Carolina entrepreneurs can thrive.
Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy. In South Carolina, small businesses account for 99.4 percent of all businesses and 43.0 percent of all employees. The growth of this sector is significant, with small business employment growing by 28.2 percent between 1995 and 2019, exceeding the nationwide small business employment growth rate. This vitality is further supported by legislative measures such as the Angel Investor Act, which provides tax incentives to investors, helping to fund start-up companies even during uncertain economic climates.
Columbia, in particular, is recognized as a fertile ground for new enterprises. It was designated a “Surge City 2020” and listed among the “Top 50 Best U.S. Cities for starting a business” by Inc. Magazine. SmartAsset further highlights Columbia’s attractiveness by ranking it as the #5 U.S. city for lowest startup costs. This focus on enabling new businesses to launch and expand successfully contributes significantly to Columbia SC business growth and overall Midlands economic growth.
Quality of Life and Community Insights Driving Growth
Beyond economic indicators, Columbia’s appeal is enhanced by a high quality of life and community-centric development. The consistency of job growth, combined with an attractive living environment, contributes to sustained housing demand. Realtor.com has recognized Columbia as the #5 U.S. city for affordable housing. This affordability, coupled with a growing number of amenities and community programs, makes Columbia an attractive destination for families and individuals alike.
The Midlands region is known for its strong entrepreneurial and business environment, innovative capacity, and significant community involvement in economic development. Entrepreneurs in this area are characterized by a unique blend of resilience and cooperation, fostering a deeply interconnected community. This collaborative spirit, along with academic institutions and business incubators, positions the greater Columbia area as a launchpad for innovators and a welcoming place for new residents.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum in Columbia, SC
The outlook for Columbia’s housing market and economy remains positive, with a forecast of steady, modest growth in home values. This enduring strength is a testament to strategic economic planning, proactive support for small businesses, and a community dedicated to progress. The emphasis on private investment, entrepreneurial drive, and maintaining a business-friendly regulatory environment ensures that Columbia is well-positioned for continued success. As the nationwide housing market experiences a rebalancing, with affordability improving as income growth outpaces home-price growth, local market conditions in Columbia continue to offer a stable and promising environment for buyers and sellers.
Columbia’s trajectory exemplifies how local innovation and leadership boost job creation and business success, reinforcing its position as a vibrant hub in South Carolina.
Conclusion
Columbia, South Carolina, demonstrates remarkable stability and growth potential, especially when viewed against broader regional and nationwide housing market trends. With a strong ranking in housing market forecasts, a diversified economy, and a thriving small business sector, the city offers a compelling environment for residents and entrepreneurs. The ongoing commitment to fostering an innovative and supportive community ensures that Columbia small business owners and citizens alike can look forward to a prosperous future. We encourage everyone to support local businesses and stay engaged in Columbia’s exciting economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia, SC’s Economic and Housing Outlook
- What is the housing market forecast for Columbia, SC, in 2026?
- Columbia, SC, is ranked No. 18 among the 100 largest U.S. metro areas in Realtor.com’s 2026 Housing Forecast. It is projected to see a 0.3% increase in existing-home sales year-over-year and a 7.2% increase in existing-home median sale price year-over-year, for a combined growth of 7.5%. Zillow also predicts a 2.5% increase in home values from January 2025 to January 2026 for the Columbia, SC metro area.
- How does Charlotte, NC’s housing market ranking for 2026 compare to previous years?
- Charlotte, North Carolina, slipped to No. 70 on Realtor.com’s 2026 ranking of the nation’s top housing markets, which ranks the 100 largest U.S. metro areas. This is down from its No. 14 ranking in the top 20 last year.
- What are the key factors driving Columbia, SC’s economic growth?
- Columbia’s economic growth is supported by very low unemployment figures, typically less than 4 percent, and job growth that tracks with the rest of the country. Key industries include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, insurance information and technology, green energy production, transportation and logistics, and research, development, and discovery.
- What support is available for small businesses and entrepreneurs in South Carolina?
- South Carolina is ranked #1 in the U.S. for incentive programs and #1 for small business optimism. The Angel Investor Act provides tax incentives to investors, aiding start-up companies. Small businesses account for 99.4 percent of South Carolina businesses and 43.0 percent of South Carolina employees.
- Is Columbia, SC, an affordable place to live and start a business?
- Yes, Columbia, SC, is recognized for its affordability. Realtor.com ranked Columbia as the #5 U.S. city for affordable housing. SmartAsset also ranked it as the #5 U.S. city for lowest startup costs.
Key Economic and Housing Market Features in Columbia, SC (2026 Outlook)
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Realtor.com Housing Market Ranking | No. 18 among 100 largest U.S. metro areas | U.S. metros |
| Projected Existing-Home Sales Growth (YoY 2026) | 0.3% increase | U.S. metros (Columbia, SC) |
| Projected Existing-Home Median Sale Price Growth (YoY 2026) | 7.2% increase | U.S. metros (Columbia, SC) |
| Combined Sales and Price Growth (2026) | 7.5% | U.S. metros (Columbia, SC) |
| Zillow Home Value Forecast (Jan 2025 – Jan 2026) | 2.5% increase for the Columbia, SC metro area | Columbia, SC metro area |
| Unemployment Rate | Typically less than 4 percent | Columbia |
| Top Industries | Advanced manufacturing, Healthcare, Insurance information and technology, Green energy production, Transportation and logistics, Research, development, and discovery | Columbia |
| State Ranking for Incentive Programs | #1 in the U.S. | State-level |
| State Ranking for Small Business Optimism | #1 | State-level |
| Small Businesses’ Share of SC Businesses | 99.4 percent | South Carolina |
| Small Businesses’ Share of SC Employees | 43.0 percent | South Carolina |
| Realtor.com Ranking for Affordable Housing | #5 U.S. city | U.S. city (Columbia, SC) |
| SmartAsset Ranking for Lowest Startup Costs | #5 U.S. city | U.S. city (Columbia, SC) |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
