Columbia Apartments and Rentals

Apartments and rentals in Columbia, MD, offer a more affordable option for living in this highly desirable community within commuting distance of both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Columbia was the idea of Maryland native James W. Rouse, a real estate developer and urban planner. He wanted to create a city that could enhance the quality of its residents' lives.

Columbia, MD, in Howard County, is a planned community that opened in 1967. As conceived by Rouse, the city is made up of 10 self-contained villages. His plan was designed to overcome the drawbacks seen in traditional design of suburban subdivisions. His development came not only with a range of housing choices, but also with schools, medical services, shopping and commercial development that would lead to local jobs. The city was never incorporated, but the Columbia Association manages common areas and is a homeowner's association. Columbia's centerpieces are The Mall in Columbia and its man-made Lake Kittamaqundi. Wilde Lake Village was the first to open. Each village has several neighborhoods, schools, a shopping center, recreational and community centers, a system of biking/walking paths, and a range of housing.

The quiet suburban feel of Columbia with its open spaces, beautiful housing and integrated village design is the draw for many people who choose to live here. Yet, the attractions, entertainment and jobs of the big city are just a commute away in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. In addition, families also value the quality education offered by local primary public schools, which are ranked as among the best in the state. Columbia has been recognized repeatedly by major publications for its quality of life. In fact, in 2010, Money Magazine ranked it No. 2 on its list of "Best Places to Live," up from the No. 8 spot in 2008.

Popular neighborhoods in Columbia include Hickory Ridge, Town Center, Harpers Choice and Owen Brown.

Columbia's master plan included commercial and industrial locations so that the city was not simply a "bedroom" community. That concept has evolved over time, shifting somewhat away from industrial space to commercial, office and retail, all of which continue to provide local job opportunities. Another local employer is W.R. Grace and Company, which is headquarter here. However, the major employment sector for Columbia residents is the federal government. Several government-related complexes are located near Columbia, while other residents commute to D.C.

For those pursuing higher education, Howard Community College offers two-year programs from its campus near Columbia's town center. Johns Hopkins University operates a campus in Columbia for its Carey Business School and The School of Education.

The cost of living in Columbia, MD, is significantly higher than the national average. You can expect costs there to be 33% higher than average, and this will be true for rental housing as well. The cost to purchase a home in the area can be quite high, making rentals a more affordable option. One-bedroom apartments start at about $1,100 a month, while two bedrooms start at about $1,200. Condos, townhomes and single-family homes also are available for rent in Columbia widening your options.

Current residents rave about the pluses of living in Columbia. Besides its great schools, they love the city's recreational spaces, always a part of the planned community concept. There are three lakes for sailing, fishing and boating; 80 miles of paths for jogging, walking and biking, and nearly 150 play areas for kids. The Columbia Association maintains a number of facilities for residents including 23 swimming pools, an equestrian center, a sports park, a skate park, athletic clubs, an ice rink and a roller rink, athletic fields and courts, neighborhood centers and senior centers.

For something a little more special, the Merriweather Post Pavilion is an outdoor concert venue that attracts name performers. Local bars also regularly offer live music. The town has a great selection of eateries, including ethnic cuisine that reflects the diversity of residents.

Columbia offers a number of special events during the year including a triathlon and Fourth of July Fireworks. Wine in the Woods has become a premiere event in Howard County since its launch 20 years ago. It has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. Put on by the staff of the Howard County Recreation and Parks Department, Wine in the Woods appeals to locals and tourists alike. The event showcases Maryland wineries and features musical entertainment, artisans, food and wine education. The event is held at Symphony Woods in Columbia.

The Capital Jazz Fest attracts thousands of music lovers for a weekend of cool jazz and soul at the Merriweather Post Pavilion at Symphony Woods. The multi-day festival is a great place to enjoy music, eat, drink, shop and mingle. The Columbia Festival of the Arts is held in June at the Columbia Lakefront. The annual celebration of the arts lasts two weeks and offers a spectrum of art forms and culture for festival goers.

If you're looking to find an apartment for rent in Columbia, MD, use Rent.com® to start your search for rental properties throughout Columbia and its nearby neighborhoods.