Columbia just scored another national win — named WalletHub’s Best City in America for Women to Thrive for the second year in a row. That makes three first-place WalletHub rankings in 2025 alone, including top spots for job seekers statewide and nationally.
So, what’s driving the success? For starters, Columbia has the highest median earnings for women (adjusted for cost of living) in the entire country — $61,778 per year. The city also has one of the lowest poverty rates for women and ranks in the top 10 for life expectancy, preventive care, and physical activity.
WalletHub evaluated 182 cities using 15 metrics ranging from income and job security to healthcare access and safety. Columbia also stands out with a strong entrepreneurial scene — 23% of local businesses are women-owned.
But it’s not perfect. Experts point out ongoing challenges: affordable childcare, paid family leave, and the threat to DEI programs that support gender equity. Still, Columbia continues to raise the bar nationally.
It’s one thing to be good for business. It’s another to be great for women in business — and in health, safety, and everyday life. Columbia’s proving you really can have both.
