Columbia County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Columbia County, Georgia's real estate market has seen a robust increase, with median home values jumping from $170,800 in 2015 to $259,000 in 2022, outpacing both state and national trends. Energy tax credits surged from $290.97 in 2013 to $2,189.84 in 2021, suggesting a focus on energy-efficient home improvements. Real estate taxes have risen from $2,491.61 in 2012 to $4,118.94 in 2021, which... Read more
Columbia County Market Trends
Columbia County, Georgia's real estate market has been marked by consistent growth, with median home values jumping from $170,800 in 2015 to $259,000 in 2022, outpacing both state and national growth. Energy tax credits spiked notably, leaping from $290.97 in 2013 to $2,189.84 in 2021, suggesting a surge in energy-efficient home improvements. Real estate taxes have also seen a steady rise,... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Columbia County, Georgia Over the Last 8 Years
Columbia County, Georgia's median home values have shown a consistent upward trend over the past eight years, jumping from $170,800 in 2015 to $259,000 in 2022. This growth outpaces both Georgia and national figures, with statewide values rising from $148,100 to $245,900 and national values increasing from $125,500 to $179,400 in the same period. This makes Columbia County an appealing spot for investors and new residents, as the area appears to be growing more rapidly than broader markets.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 9 Years
Columbia County, Georgia has seen a significant increase in the average residential energy tax credit per tax return over the last nine years, with noticeable spikes in 2017, 2018, and 2021. The credits went from $290.97 in 2013 to a remarkable $2,189.84 in 2021. This trend suggests growing investments in energy-efficient home improvements or renewable energy installations, making the area increasingly attractive for eco-conscious homeowners and investors looking for tax incentives.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Columbia County, Georgia has seen a notable rise in average real estate taxes per tax return, starting at approximately $2,491.61 in 2012 and climbing to about $4,118.94 in 2021. While the increase demonstrates steady growth, particularly significant jumps are noted between 2017 and 2018, and again between 2018 and 2019. This trend could suggest a strengthening local economy or increasing property values, indicating potential for property investment, but it could also impact long-term affordability for residents.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 10 Years
Columbia County, Georgia has seen relatively stable percentages of farm tax returns over the past decade, fluctuating between approximately 0.49% and 0.57%. Farm tax returns reflect the region's agricultural economic activity and tax contributions from farming operations. Although the figures show minor variations each year, the overall stability implies consistent agricultural participation. This matters for investors, developers, and residents interested in the area's economic health and land use, as steady agricultural activity may indicate sustained rural development opportunities and possibly stable land values.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 5 Years in Columbia County
Columbia County, Georgia has seen fluctuating mortgage counts across different occupancy types over the last five years. Principal residences have consistently dominated, peaking in 2021 at around 16,862 and slightly declining thereafter. Investment properties showed significant growth in 2021 (1215) compared to earlier years, before declining to 590 in 2022. Second residences remained relatively low but stable, with minor variations year to year. These trends could suggest shifting priorities in the real estate market, possibly driven by economic factors or changing buyer preferences. For investors, developers, and insurance agents, understanding these shifts is crucial as they can impact rental market dynamics, property values, and insurance risk profiles in the region.
Economic Outlook
In Columbia County, Georgia, the average taxable income has climbed from $66,764.87 in 2013 to $89,214.27 in 2021, hinting at economic growth and increasing wealth. Both state and local income taxes have also risen, from $5,909.62 in 2012 to $10,309.01 in 2021, which could reflect enhanced public services and infrastructure investment but also suggest a higher cost of living. Additionally, the total tax liability per return has consistently grown, from $10,517.87 in 2012 to $14,377.70 in 2021,... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Columbia County, GA over the last 9 years
Over the past nine years, Columbia County in Georgia has seen a notable, albeit gradual, increase in the average taxable income per tax return, starting at $66,764.87 in 2013 and reaching $89,214.27 by 2021. This upward trend, highlighting a growth of over $22,000, potentially signals economic strengthening and rising prosperity in the area. For investors and homebuilders, this could imply a stable and thriving market, while residents might appreciate the boost in regional wealth and its potential to enhance local services and amenities.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 10 Years
Columbia County, Georgia has seen a steady climb in average state and local income taxes per tax return over the past decade, rising from $5,909.62 in 2012 to $10,309.01 in 2021. A notable spike occurred in 2018 when the taxes jumped dramatically by over $1,400.00, continuing to grow each year thereafter. This trend suggests an increasing tax burden which could impact the cost of living and financial planning for both current and prospective residents and investors. High tax rates might be reflective of enhanced public services or infrastructure investments, but they also indicate a higher financial commitment for those living or doing business in the area.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 10 Years
Over the last decade, Columbia County, Georgia has seen a consistent rise in average total tax liability per tax return, with amounts increasing from $10,517.87 in 2012 to $14,377.70 in 2021. This reflects a broader trend of economic growth and rising incomes in the area, making it an appealing spot for potential investors and new residents alike. However, the dip in 2018 to $11,631.99 suggests some volatility, though the subsequent rebound indicates resilience in the local economy. This trend underscores the region's upward economic trajectory, crucial for those considering property investments or relocation.
Cost of Living in Columbia County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,726 | $1,488 | $2,096 | $1,313 | $1,705 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,726 | $1,215 | $1,604 | $1,313 | $1,813 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,726 | $1,216 | $1,818 | $1,313 | $1,446 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,726 | $992 | $1,326 | $1,313 | $1,566 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $1,282 | $995 | $1,540 | $1,148 | $1,119 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $1,282 | $743 | $1,048 | $1,148 | $1,116 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $1,282 | $786 | $1,262 | $614 | $1,024 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $1,282 | $508 | $770 | $614 | $896 |
| 2 adults | $1,122 | $632 | $984 | $0 | $876 |
| 1 adult | $945 | $345 | $492 | $0 | $711 |
Safety trends & Data
In Columbia County, Georgia, property crimes have seen notable fluctuations over the last five years. Larceny-theft cases plunged from 428 in 2018 to just 6 in 2021, and burglary incidents declined from 59 in 2018 to 1 in 2022. Fraud and vandalism have generally trended downward as well. These shifts suggest a potentially safer environment for investors, new residents, and property developers, though appraisers and insurance agents might need to examine the reasons behind these changes and... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Columbia County, GA Over the Last 5 Years
Over the last five years, Columbia County, Georgia has seen significant fluctuations in property crimes. Notably, larceny-theft decreased drastically from 428 cases in 2018 to just 6 in 2021, suggesting improved security or reporting changes. Burglary incidents also saw a notable decline, from 59 cases in 2018 to just 1 in 2022. Fraud and vandalism, while still present, have generally seen a downward trend. These trends could signal a safer environment for potential investors, new residents, and property developers, although appraisers and insurance agents might look deeper into the causes and sustainability of these improvements.
Demographics
Columbia County, Georgia, shows an intriguing mix of demographic patterns with a slight female majority. Educational attainment highlights a solid proportion of residents with at least some college education, with a notable portion holding bachelor's or graduate degrees. Age distribution suggests a balanced spread across various life stages, though younger age groups have significant representation. Race-wise, the county is predominantly White, with substantial African American and smaller... Read more
Race Distribution in Columbia County, Georgia (2022)
Educational Attainment in Columbia County, Georgia (2022)
Age Distribution in Columbia County, Georgia
Citizen Population in Columbia County, Georgia (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Columbia County, Georgia, tends to have a conservative political leaning based on the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election results. The Republican party possibly garnered more than 62% of votes while Democrats received about 36%. This political climate could influence various aspects of the local real estate market, potentially attracting buyers with similar political views and expectations regarding community policies and development... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
In Columbia County, Georgia, the Republican party potentially dominated the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election with over 62% of the votes, whereas the Democratic party gathered around 36%. Libertarians might have had some presence, though minimal at roughly 1.6%, and no significant votes were recorded for the Green party. This voting pattern could suggest a strong lean towards conservative policies and candidates in this area.
62.07% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
36.28% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
1.65% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Over the last decade, Columbia County, Georgia has seen its student-to-teacher ratio decrease from over 17 students per teacher in 2014 to just above 15 in 2023. This trend points to a growing focus on smaller class sizes and a more personalized educational experience, which could be appealing to families prioritizing quality education. Such changes might influence investor decisions, real estate trends, and local property values, making the area a potentially attractive option for long-term... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Columbia County, Georgia over the last 10 years
Over the last decade, Columbia County, Georgia has shown a gradual decrease in its student-to-teacher ratio, starting from over 17 students per teacher in 2014 to just above 15 in 2023. This trend suggests an increasing focus on smaller class sizes, potentially leading to a more personalized educational experience compared to the national average of 14 students per teacher. Such shifts could be attractive to families prioritizing quality education, and may influence investor decisions, real estate trends, and local property values. Those interested in building property or moving to the area might find the improving educational landscape a positive indicator for long-term growth and community development.
