Miles from Nebraska’s metropolitan centers, Columbus carves out an industrial niche for itself at the confluence of the Loup and Platte rivers. Mid-sized manufacturers have planted roots here and encourage working families to do the same. “We’re a small town of maybe 17,000 people, and we have a lot of blue-collar folks,” says Realtor Jose Garcia of Re/Max Total Realty. “A lot of people come to work here for factory jobs.” Factories are clustered in the city’s east end. On the weekends, working folks can play at one of many parks or simply relax by the rivers. “You get a little bit of everything; y’know, small stuff,” says Garcia.
BD Pharmaceutical Systems employs over 2,000 workers in the city, and according to the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, the county’s workforce has grown at a faster rate than Nebraska’s over the past two decades.
Many newer homes on the outskirts of Columbus feature larger lots.
BD Pharmaceutical Systems is a major employer in Columbus.
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Home prices remain low, despite a tight market
Much of the area inside Columbus city limits is residential. Block after block of single-family homes take shape with sidewalk-lined, tree-covered streets. Lot sizes are mostly around a tenth-acre, except for the outliers priced higher than the typical range of $230,000 to $330,000. “I think the housing market is pretty tight right now,” says Garcia. The median price is $270,000.
Find homes with spacious garages in Columbus.
Tree-lined streets help keep residents cool in Columbus.
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Small parks, a river and a golf course all in one city
Smaller parks with a playground, sports courts or both are ubiquitous in Columbus. The city's public golf course, Quail Run, sponsors leagues, conducts lessons and offers five different tee positions for all levels of players. Wilderness Park Soccer Complex also hosts youth and adult leagues, and indoor play is available at the YMCA. But perhaps the biggest outdoor source of entertainment is the river. “A lot of people like going on the Platte River for air boating in the summer, or four-wheeling,” says Garcia.
Practice your short game at Quail Run Golf Course in Columbus.
Relax with friends on the grassy areas near the Platte River in Columbus.
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Coming together for year-round fun
Columbus is always packed with events. This is true year-round, whether it’s a comedy or karaoke night in the winter months or golf tournaments in the spring.
Sit back and relax with the community at Beats and Eats: Women of Rock in Columbus.
As temperatures rise, golf tournaments become popular events in Columbus.
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Stopping for a bite on 33rd Avenue
The city’s restaurants largely operate in two areas: the intersection of 33rd Avenue and 23rd Street and the blocks surrounding Frankfort Square Park. Bars and cafes are prevalent, as are a blend of locally owned and fast food restaurants. Two culinary staples of the area are Mexican and Japanese food. Multiple grocery stores hug 23rd Street, so residents’ weekly shopping trips often conveniently converge here.
Browse the local shops found near Frankfort Square Park in Columbus.
Pick up groceries and everyday household items at Walmart on 23rd Street in Columbus.
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Columbus Public Schools
Students in Columbus can attend Columbus Public Schools, rated B overall by Niche. Some 4,000 students go to class across the district’s eight schools. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 16-to-1, the district is slightly ahead of the national average of 17 students for every one teacher.
Students enjoy the atmosphere at Columbus Middle School in Columbus.
Columbus High School in Columbus has a dedicated student drop-off zone.
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Calling ahead for the CAT
Columbus doesn’t have a fixed-route bus network but instead relies on an on-demand system operated by Columbus Area Transit. The service is conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. Columbus Community Hospital lies 2 miles northwest of the city center.
Convenient public transportation is available in Columbus.
Residents can find medical care at Columbus Community Hospital.
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Crime and pollutants in Columbus
The FBI’s crime data indicates that the rates of property crimes are lower in Columbus than Nebraska or the United States overall. Violent crimes also are reported at a lower rate than the state and national averages.
Residential properties in Columbus are at a moderate risk of being damaged by wildfires, according to First Street; however, the city’s more pressing concern is that of ethylene oxide pollution in the air. In 2022, the EPA investigated and estimated that one additional Columbus resident per 10,000 near industrial locations would contract some form of cancer.
Written By
Lia Jones
Photography Contributed By
Kory Ross
Video By
Charles Kennedy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Bret Kumpf,
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, NE sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Columbus, NE over the last 12 months is $275,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Buyer will receive a 14-month Home Warranty at closing! Are you ready to own nearly an acre of land with a beautiful home located in the highly desirable Lakeview School District all while enjoying the benefits of being outside city limits with lower taxes? From the moment you arrive, you’ll fall in love with the large covered front porch, perfect for relaxing mornings and peaceful evenings.
Be ready to be impressed! This beautifully remodeled home is completely move-in ready and offers updates throughout. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be welcomed by a spacious living room, formal dining area, and an inviting kitchen with plenty of cabinet and counter space. All kitchen appliances are included, making the transition into your new home even easier. The laundry room has also been
This stunning modern ranch-style home features 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a beautifully finished basement., offering nearly 3,880 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space. As you step inside, you'll be greeted with striking wood ceiling beams, an open living room, a soaring stone-wrapped fireplace. Natural light fills every corner of the home, the spaciously out. The kitchen it's a
Welcome home to this charming property located in a cul-de-sac in Columbus, Nebraska! From the moment you walk in, you’ll love the spacious main level featuring a great living room, oversized kitchen, and large dining area perfect for entertaining. All kitchen appliances are staying with the home, making this property truly move-in ready! The main floor also features 3 bedrooms and a full
Step into timeless charm with this spacious home nestled in one of the town’s most established and character-filled neighborhoods. Surrounded by mature trees and winding streets, this property offers over 4,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Inside, you’ll find an oak cabinet eat-in kitchen, 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, along with both formal living and dining rooms—perfect for
Welcome to this custom-built home in West Elks offering over 4,000 sq ft of beautifully finished living space. Situated on nearly half an acre, this walk-out ranch backs to a private conservation area with a fully fenced yard. Inside, vaulted beamed ceilings highlight the open-concept layout, with a spacious great room anchored by a cozy gas fireplace. The chef’s kitchen features a striking metal
Beautiful spacious ranch-style home situated on a 130 x 204 lot backing to a picturesque tree line, offering privacy and peaceful views. The main level features a welcoming living room, dining area, and a beautiful kitchen with all stainless-steel appliances included. There are three bedrooms on the main floor, along with a laundry/utility room for added convenience. The primary suite offers an
Located in a beautiful established neighborhood adjacent to the country club, this custom-built home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and functionality with an open-concept layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be impressed by the stunning curb appeal, professionally landscaped yard, and inviting atmosphere throughout. Inside,
Buyer will receive a 14-month home warranty at closing! Be ready to be impressed! This incredible acreage property located in the highly sought-after Lakeview School District truly checks all the boxes location, location, location! Situated on 1.27 acres this property offers exceptional space and functionality. A new 40x30 insulated and finished shop (built in 2024) provides the perfect setup for
Welcome to this custom-built home in West Elks offering over 3,700 square feet of beautifully finished living space. Situated on nearly half an acre, this stunning walk-out ranch backs to a private conservation area and features a fully fenced yard. Inside, you’re greeted by impressive vaulted, beamed ceilings that highlight the open-concept design. The spacious great room is anchored by a cozy
Welcome to this stunning new construction home The Penbrooke Model, built by Granville Custom Homes! This property features five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a finished basement, offering over 3,300 square feet of comfortable living space. As you enter, you’ll be welcomed by an open living and dining area, perfect for entertaining guests. Abundant natural light fills the space, creating a warm
An exquisite opportunity awaits you with the introduction of West Elks Phase 2, a stunning new subdivision located just North of Columbus. Many lots back up to a conservation area, and there's a golf cart trail that leads directly to West Elks. Enjoys picturesque views, all situated within the highly sought-after Lakeview School District.
Modern living is coming to Columbus. Our newest apartment community is designed for comfort, convenience, and connection, offering thoughtfully designed homes paired with the amenities you want and the location you need. Whether you are starting a new chapter, relocating for work, or simply ready for an upgrade, this community gives you space to settle in and feel at home from day one.
If you are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to call home, look no further than The Flats at 5th Apartments in Columbus, NE. Our pet-friendly community features studio, one and two bedroom apartments with stylish interiors and thoughtful features. You will love the wood plank flooring, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit washer and dryer in your apartment.
This cozy single-family home offers comfortable living with a functional layout and great features throughout. Enjoy a spacious living room perfect for relaxing or entertaining, two well-sized bedrooms, and an in-unit washer and dryer for added convenience. Step outside to a covered front porch, ideal for morning coffee or winding down in the evening. Off-street parking available.Located in a
COMMERCIAL STORAGE FOR RENT 1059 25th Ave, Columbus, NE 68601Looking for a clean, heated space for equipment, vehicles, tools, inventory, or contractor storage? This 30' x 40' commercial storage unit offers 1,200 sq. ft. of indoor storage with 16' walls and convenient access.Features include: Heated indoor space 16' x 14' insulated overhead garage door Walk-through
For rent- Columbus, NE1912 32nd Street, Unit 1013 bed | 2 BathRent: $1,595/monthSecurity Deposit: $1,595Pets consideredMessage us for more information or to schedule a showing, or call/text
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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.
