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Columbia, PA Utility & Living Guide
Columbia, formerly Wright's Ferry, is a borough (town) in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, United States. As of the 2020 census, it had a population of 10,222. It is 28 miles (45 km) southeast of Harrisburg, on the east (left) bank of the Susquehanna River, across from Wrightsville and York County an
Monthly Utility Costs
$120/mo
$50/mo
$45/mo
$25/mo
$65/mo
Housing Market
| Rent & Property | |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1200/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1600/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2100/mo |
| Median Home Price | $320,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.2% |
| Avg Childcare/mo | $1000 |
The housing market in Columbia is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. Prices have risen steadily due to demand from commuters to Lancaster and Harrisburg.
Cost of Living
105
+5% above national average
102
98
100
$1000
Tax Rates
| Tax Overview | |
|---|---|
| Total Sales Tax | 7.5% |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.2% |
| <p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p> | |
Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax rate of 3.07%.
Family & Relocation
50
6.5/10
$1000/mo
City Pulse
Public transit options are limited, but sidewalks are generally well-maintained in downtown areas.
- Columbia River Park
- National Watch & Clock Museum
- Columbia Market House
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Household Budget Calculator
Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Columbia based on your household profile.
📰 Live Local News
Residents must obtain permits for home renovations. Short-term rentals require registration.
Financial Tools
- Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
- Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
- Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
- Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city
- Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
- Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
- Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
- City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side
Find Another City Guide
Search by city name or ZIP code to find utility costs, housing data and cost of living guides.
📊 Columbia — Census & Demographic Data
Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.
☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs
Utility costs peak in winter due to heating needs, with gas bills often doubling. Summer sees moderate increases from air conditioning use.
🏛️ Local Tax Details
Key ZIP code level tax info: Columbia Borough has a millage rate of 12.5 mills, with no additional surtaxes.
👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness
7/10: Sidewalks are decent in downtown areas, parks are accessible, but transit options lack elevators.
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