Columbia may be a dream for families, but for singles? Not so much. According to a new WalletHub study, Columbia ranks 179th out of 183 U.S. cities for singles. Ouch.
Why the low score? The study weighed factors like dating opportunities, fun and recreation, and economics. Columbia stumbled hardest in nightlife, dating apps, and the number of singles in town. Simply put: Columbia is built for community, not casual mingling. Families thrive here. Schools are top-notch. Parks are abundant. But singles looking for buzzy nightlife, quirky bars, and spontaneous meet-cutes might feel left out.
With fewer restaurants and nightlife spots per capita compared to bigger cities, and housing costs that don’t exactly favor young solo renters, Columbia isn’t courting singles. Even search interest for apps like Tinder fell flat. But don’t write Columbia off just yet. A growing number of young professionals are creating their own scene. Groups like Columbia Social are building connections through happy hours, fitness clubs, and meetups. There’s hope yet for those still searching for their person under the Symphony Woods stars.
Bottom line: it’s not impossible to date in Columbia — but you might have to work a little harder (or take a quick drive to Baltimore).
