Neighborhoods of Columbia

This section of COOLumbia.net is to let the visitor and newcomer to Columbia know that Columbia is living proof that inner-city neighborhoods can be and in Columbia are very livable, comfortable, beautiful and safe. We have, of course, many outlying sub-division neighborhoods that are typical of modern America, but this web site is dedicated primarily to Midtown Columbia and its living conveniences.

Whether you are visiting Columbia, moving to Columbia, or a long time resident, these pages are for your enjoyment.

Downtown	If you're looking for a home, condo, or apartment right downtown, near restaurants, clubs, entertainment, shops and more, take a look at some of these places to live. If you prefer high-rise buildings, we have a separate section devoted just to that as well.
Elmwood Park	Located in the heart of Columbia, Elmwood Park combines the charm and flavor of a bygone era with the convenience and excitement of downtown living. Even after a century of progress, the area still retains the feeling of life from Columbia's past. The streets are lined with century old trees, colorful dogwoods and crepe myrtles. Elmwood Park is designated an historic district on the National Register of Historic places and a Design Preservation Area by the city of Columbia.
Granby Mill Village	A pedestrian-friendly historic cotton mill village near the Congaree River and the University of South Carolina campus, Granby offers the best of downtown living in a unique and diverse neighborhood. This is a National Register Historic District of restored 1890s salt box style mill houses near Granby Park on the Congaree River.
Heathwood	Heathwood, in central Columbia, is conveniently located to Columbia's downtown, Five Points, Fort Jackson and the University of South Carolina. The neighborhood was annexed into the City of Columbia in 1925 and at least one of the homes is listed on the Register of Historic Places. The neighborhood is ideal for those interested in downtown living.
Hi-Rise Living	Take a look at some of the best hi-rise apartment and condominium buildings in midtown Columbia.
Olympia	Nestled between downtown Columbia and the Congaree River, the historic mill village of Olympia showcases homes and buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The Olympia Cotton Mill, one of the most architecturally outstanding buildings of the early twentieth century, is being converted to loft condos.
Rosewood	Rosewood stretches out toward Beltline Boulevard in the eastern section of the city.
Saxon Village	Saxon village, once a blighted neighborhood known locally for its crime and drugs, has been razed and is being rebuilt with attractive and affordable new housing. The Drew Wellness Center, operated by the Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation, punctuates the rebirth of this inner-city neighborhood. Read Street, the worst of the worse is now developing into a neighborhood of 'city homes' which are Columbia's answer to the more famous 'town house'.
Shandon	Shandon homes built from 1895 to 1940 characterize this neighborhood's architectural heritage. Its streets are lined with large oak trees and sidewalks, where residents can be seen greeting one another, walking, or jogging throughout the day. It is truly a neighborhood in the heart of the city, Shandon was the place to live at the turn of the century, just as it is today!
Stadium Area	Many new condos are being built right next to the University of South Carolina's Williams-Brice Football Stadium. See some of the best of these developments here.
University Hill	University Hill, located east of USC's main campus, is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Columbia. Originally settled in the 1850's, this community now boasts over 170 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering some of the finest aspects of inner city living. With tree-lined streets and a new neighborhood-wide lighting system, the University neighborhood provides a pleasant and safe pedestrian "bridge" between downtown to the west and the Five Points Village to the east.
Wales Garden	Lined with massive oaks, Wales Garden is one of the most beautiful in-town residential neighborhoods, adjacent to Five Points and USC. It was developed in the early 1920's by Edwin Wales Robertson, a lawyer and banker who owned the street car line that ran up Saluda Avenue. Magnolia-lined Saluda Avenue, designed by Frederick Olmstead of Central Park, travels the length of the neighborhood. Many of the lovely old homes have been restored and are included in the National Historic Register. A charming public fountain on Myrtle Court is a delight to residents and visitors alike.
Wheeler Hill	Wheeler Hill, located southeast of USC's main campus, is located near the Five Points and University Hill neighborhoods. With winding, tree-lined streets, this neighborhood provides a pleasant and safe community in the heart of the city.