Eastern Mississippi's Columbus is a designated Mississippi Hills National Heritage Area known for its historic architecture and deep blues roots. It welcomed the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, B.B. King and Duke Ellington to historical landmarks, such as Queen City Hotel and Catfish Alley – two iconic stops on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Local blues artists, from Big Joe Williams to Bukka White, left a lasting impact on the city's culture. Columbus' population of over 23,000 continues to celebrate music through events like the Southside Blues Festival. The local University and Air Force Base welcomed new crowds throughout the 20th century, but the city retained its small-town feel. "It's a small southern town, but it's still one of the bigger cities in Mississippi," says local broker Kaleena Richardson of Legacy Real Estate Group. She's lived in Columbus since 2005. "It's a city full of history and a melting pot of diversity."
The Columbus Air Force Base is one of the largest employers. Major industries include healthcare, education and manufacturing. According to Golden Triangle Development LINK, Rural King is coming to Columbus with an investment of $8 million. This will bring over 50 new jobs to the city, and the store will open in 2026.
Columbus Air Force Base plays a vital role in the city’s economy, bringing military families and aviation history to Columbus.
Columbus honors its past through the Catfish Alley mural, a visual tribute to the music, food, and community that shaped the city.
1/2
The history of Catfish Alley
The Rosenzweig Arts Center is the heart of Columbus' intimate art scene and home to the Columbus Arts Council. The center exhibits local pieces for sale and hosts various events and workshops. Catfish Alley was a hub of music, culture and business for Black Americans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, named for the catfish caught, sold and cooked in the Alley. Catfish in the Alley, a popular event held every spring, celebrates the history of Catfish Alley and the contributions of Black residents to the city's culture through blues music, Mississippi farm-raised catfish samples and various other vendors.
Local restaurants and businesses sprawl from the intersection of Main and Fifth Street in downtown Columbus. Spots like the Coffee House on 5th and Park Place Gifts fill two-story, brick-clad buildings with shuttered windows and outstretched awnings. "We have some really great locally owned boutiques and shopping downtown," Richardson says. Huck's Place, with popular catfish entrees, and Zachary's are a couple of local favorites for a meal downtown. Most of the city's retail and grocery stores line Highway 45 in the city's north end.
Catfish Alley in Columbus is a historic street that once served as a hub for Black-owned businesses, music, and culture in the city.
Coffee House on 5th is a popular local café in Columbus, offering coffee, pastries, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the city.
1/2
Historic homes with Greek Revival and Italianate architecture
Columbus is known for its historic 19th-century homes. They date as early as the 1830s and have Gothic, Italianate and Greek Revival architecture. Several homes are on the National Register of Historic Places, and historic home tours are popular. "Most historic homes are on Columbus' north and south ends," Richardson says. Craftsman bungalows and cottages from the early 20th century cluster in and around downtown. Housing developed inched eastward throughout the 20th century, mainly including ranch-style homes. Housing development started to lull in the 21st century. "There's not a lot of new houses," Richardson says. The city's few condominiums and townhomes are downtown. The median sale price for homes in Columbus is $200,000, which is about half of the American median.
Columbus features Creole Cottage-style homes, adding to the city’s diverse and historic architectural landscape.
Columbus is known for its stunning Greek Revival homes, showcasing grand columns and symmetrical designs throughout the city.
1/2
The Mississippi University for Women was the nation's first state-supported college for women
The Columbus Municipal School District scores an overall C on Niche and serves just over 3,000 students. Franklin Academy has served the community since 1821 and was the first public school in Mississippi; it has a C on Niche. Heritage Academy is a faith-based, private school option in north Columbus that serves pre-kindergarten through twelfth-grade students. Niche gives the Academy a B-plus. Local post-secondary options include the Mississippi University for Women, the nation's first state-supported college for women.
Franklin Academy in Columbus is the oldest free public school in Mississippi, established in 1821 with a long legacy of education.
Mississippi University for Women, located in Columbus, is the first public college for women in the United States.
1/2
Fishing days on the Tombigbee River
The Tombigbee River, specifically the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway branch, is a magnet for outdoor recreation. The Columbus Riverwalk runs over 4 miles along the river, popular with cyclists and casual strollers. The river connects with Columbus Lake, a 9,000-acre freshwater expanse framed by grassy banks, the Columbus Lock and Dam and the Columbus Marina. The marina offers boat rentals and several wet slips for boat owners. Fishing is popular from Columbus Lake to Lake Lowndes State Park. The city also operates two community centers and six public parks.
1/2
Air quality in Columbus
Columbus suffers from poor air quality, primarily due to industry, including a nearby Superfund site. Summers are hot in Columbus, and temperatures rarely go below freezing.
Hopping on the Route 82
U.S. Routes 45 and 82 intersect in Columbus, connecting with Tuscaloosa about 60 miles away. The Friendly City Express is an on-demand transportation service with limited hours. The Golden Triangle Regional Airport offers flights with American Airlines and Delta about 12 miles west of the city center. The Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle is just north of downtown on Fifth Street.
Decreasing violent crime
Columbus' crime statistics are not readily available, but the Lowndes County Sheriff's Office reported a 10.29% decrease in violent crime from 2023 to 2024 and a 42.86% increase in property crimes.
Written By
Brennen Martin
Photography Contributed By
Dimitri Fevrier
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
COLBY SHAW,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Columbus, MS sell after 22 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Columbus, MS over the last 12 months is $190,000.
3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with bonus room that can serve as a 4th bedroom or entertainment space | Open floor plan withkitchen overlooking living room, large eat-at bar, custom cabinetry, and hidden pantry | Living room features 14 ft ceilings | Primary suite includes jacuzzi-style tub, separate tile shower, and walk-in closet with built-in safe room | Fenced backyard with commercial-grade
Charming home on a corner lot in the Oak Park subdivision, located in the highly sought after Caledonia School District. This home offers an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings that create a bright and welcoming living space. The kitchen features quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, while the primary suite includes vaulted ceilings, double sinks, a soaking tub, and a separate
Excellent 0.62-acre lot zoned C-3 Commercial, on the north side of Wilkins Wise Rd. Outstanding visibility with this commercial lot. The property is situated near retail, office, industrial, and commercial uses. This location would create an ''instant presence'' for most any business. Great nearby access to Hwy 45 North. The site was filled years ago and understood to be situated well above flood
Spacious 4-bedroom, 21⁄2-bath home featuring a large open living and dining area--perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy relaxing or hosting guests on the covered back patio. Conveniently located close to schools, shopping, and everyday amenities, this home offers both comfort and convenience.
10 acre commercial/industrial site located amongst all the major industrial uses in Lowndes County, such as Steel Dynamics, International Paper, Aluminum Dynamics, PACCAR, and SDI Biocarbon Solutions. Property is at the SW corner of Manufacturers Drive and Artesia Rd, adjacent to the railroad. Property is selling as is. Great site for your next development in a strategic location! Just south of
Step into a true piece of Southern history with this remarkable antebellum raised cottage, built in 1835 and once home to Rev. George Shaeffer--one of Columbus's original settlers. Rich in character and architectural integrity, this 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence showcases timeless craftsmanship that is nearly impossible to replicate today. The home features original heart pine flooring, soaring
This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offers 2,201 sq ft and is located in the coveted Oakdale Park subdivision in the Caledonia School District. The living room has vaulted ceilings and neutral paint that makes the space feel open and comfortable. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a breakfast nook. The home features a split bedroom layout with the primary
Stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in Columbus! This 2,167 sq ft home features a modern open concept layout that is perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Situated on a beautifully landscaped 0.62-acre lot, the property offers a peaceful outdoor setting along with a spacious 2-car garage. Enjoy quiet surroundings while staying conveniently close to local amenities. Don't miss this New Hope
Stunning Property in a prime location! Located just off HWY 182 in the desirable New Hope School District, this beautiful parcel of land offers ideal setting to build your dream home. Owners are licensed agents. 16th Section
Well-maintained home with a functional layout, comfortable living spaces, and a spacious yard. This property offers an excellent opportunity for buyers seeking a solid home with room for both indoor and outdoor living. Convenient location with easy access to schools, shopping, and everyday amenities.
Wonderful opportunity in East Columbus located on Lehmberg Road. This property sits among well established and successful sites, offering excellent visibility and long term growth potential. Zoned R 4, the property is ideally suited for multi family development and presents a strong opportunity for investors and developers. There is also potential for the City to consider rezoning for commercial
Recently remodeled and move-in ready, this charming three-bedroom, one-full-bath brick home sits on a spacious one-acre lot offering room to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The functional floor plan provides comfortable living spaces, while the brick exterior offers classic curb appeal and low maintenance. Conveniently located and ideal for first-time buyers, down-sizers, or investors.
Find your new home at Reunion Apartments in Columbus, Mississippi. Our beautiful apartments are conveniently located, giving you easy access to your favorite outlets and venues. A variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options are minutes away. Discover why our apartments for rent are an excellent fit for you.Which of our spacious one, two, or three-bedroom floor plans will you choose?
Located in the charming city of Columbus, The Colony offers a variety of amenities and thoughtfully designed apartments for you to call home. Our mission is to enhance the lives of our residents by providing exceptional customer service, a strong sense of community, and superior property maintenance. Our community features a resort-style pool, 24/7 gym, and more. Each pet-friendly apartment has
Welcome to Audubon Cove Apartments, your new home in Columbus, MS. Our community offers a variety of amenities designed to enhance your living experience. Dive into our sparkling resort-style pool, perfect for cooling off during those hot summer days. Enjoy evenings by our outdoor fireplace, a cozy spot to relax and unwind, complete with a TV lounge for your entertainment. For those who love an
Welcome to Embassy Court Apartments, located on 10th Street North, in Columbus, MS!You deserve the Best of Columbus, MS.Embassy Court Apartments, where comfort, convenience, and affordability come together in a location designed for everyday ease. Nestled in a well-connected area of Columbus, Embassy Court offers a relaxed community setting while keeping residents close to the
Welcome to Chateaux Holly Hills Apartments, located on Newbell Road, in Columbus, MS!Affordable Comfort with Everyday Convenience in Columbus, MS.Step into Chateaux Holly Hills Apartments, where thoughtful comfort meets a prime Columbus location—without stretching your budget. Designed for residents who value simplicity, convenience, and a welcoming community, Chateaux Holly Hills
Welcome to College Squares Apartments, located on 11th Street South, in Columbus, MS!Connected, Convenient Living Near the Heart of Columbus, MS.Discover a lifestyle that puts you close to everything at College Squares Apartments—where comfortable living meets an effortlessly convenient location. Set in a well-connected area of Columbus, our community offers easy access to the
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
