West Columbia: A Hidden Gem in Brazoria County, Texas

Photo by Brian Zajac/Unsplash

Welcome to West Columbia, a charming town located in Brazoria County, Texas. With a population of 3,674, West Columbia offers residents a dense suburban feel and a close-knit community. This neighborhood is known for its affordable housing options and moderate political views. Let's dive deeper into what makes West Columbia such a unique and desirable place to live.

Population and Housing

In West Columbia, the majority of residents own their homes, with a rent vs own ratio of 47% to 53%. The median home value in this neighborhood is $116,700, which is significantly lower than the national average of $244,900. For those who prefer renting, the median rent in West Columbia is $958, compared to the national average of $1,163. These affordable housing options make West Columbia an attractive choice for families and individuals looking to settle down.

Neighborhood Rankings

West Columbia has received recognition for its diverse community and low cost of living. It ranks #155 out of 1,032 for the most diverse places to live in Texas, highlighting the inclusivity and multiculturalism of the neighborhood. Additionally, West Columbia is ranked #161 out of 1,026 for places with the lowest cost of living in Texas, making it an affordable option for residents. For young professionals, West Columbia ranks #725 out of 1,032, offering opportunities for career growth and development.

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Crime and Safety

Violent Crimes(Calculated annually per 100,000 residents) vs National

• Assault 366.2 vs National 282.7
• Rape 209.3 vs National 40.7

Property Crimes(Calculated annually per 100,000 residents) vs National

• Burglary 104.6 vs National 500.1
• Theft 994.0 vs National 2042.8
• Motor Vehicle Theft 52.3 vs National 284.0

When it comes to crime and safety, West Columbia fares well compared to national averages. Violent crimes, such as assault, are calculated at a rate of 366.20455 per 100,000 residents, slightly higher than the national average of 282.692. However, it's important to note that the murder rate in West Columbia is significantly higher at 209.25974 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 6.08472. In terms of property crimes, West Columbia experiences a lower rate of burglary at 104.62987 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 500.126. The theft rate is also lower at 993.98378 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 2,042.79. Motor vehicle theft is relatively low as well, with a rate of 52.31494 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 284.038.

Resident Diversity

Age Distribution

• Age<10 years 0.12139357648339684
• 10-17 years 0.08247142079477408
• 18-24 years 0.10914534567229178
• 25-34 years 0.08138268916712031
• 35-44 years 0.10587915078933043
• 45-54 years 0.17773543821448012
• 55-64 years 0.10860097985846488
• 65+ years 0.21339139902014154

Education Levels vs National

• Master's degree or higher 0.04675118858954041 vs National 0.130820341502415
• Bachelor's degree 0.06973058637083994 vs National 0.20587987553332618
• Some college or associate's degree 0.4425515055467512 vs National 0.2871688902051139
• High school diploma or equivalent 0.2179080824088748 vs National 0.2648712959947021
• Less than high school diploma 0.22305863708399365 vs National 0.1112595967644428

West Columbia prides itself on its diverse population. The age distribution is well-balanced, with 12% of residents being under 10 years old, 8% between 10-17 years old, and 21% being 65 years or older. In terms of ethnic and economic diversity, West Columbia showcases a vibrant mix of residents. The education levels of the residents vary, with 5% having less than a high school education, 7% having a high school diploma, 44% having some college or an associate's degree, 22% having a bachelor's degree, and 22% having a graduate or professional degree.

Education and Schools

West Columbia is home to several top-rated public schools, including West Columbia Elementary School, Barrow Elementary School, West Brazos Junior High School, Wild Peach Elementary School, and Columbia High School. These schools provide quality education and contribute to the overall success of the neighborhood. Additionally, there are private school options nearby, such as Angleton Christian School and Sweeny Christian School, for families seeking alternative education choices.

Similar Places like West Columbia

If you enjoy the charm and community of West Columbia, you may also find similar neighborhoods in Brazoria, Angleton, Clute, Alvin, Sweeny, Freeport, Bay City, and Wild Peach Village. These areas offer a similar suburban feel and a range of amenities for residents to enjoy.

West Columbia Resident Reviews

Current residents of West Columbia have expressed their satisfaction with the neighborhood. They appreciate the abundance of amenities, including restaurants, small shops, gas stations, and major retailers like Walmart and H-E-B. The proximity to Lake Jackson, which is just a 20-minute drive away, provides even more options for dining and shopping. Residents also note the peaceful and relaxed atmosphere of West Columbia, making it a great place to live. Overall, the positive reviews from current residents highlight the appeal and livability of this neighborhood.

West Columbia is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Brazoria County, Texas. With its affordable housing options, top-rated schools, and low crime rates, it offers a high quality of life for its residents. Whether you're a young professional, a family with children, or a retiree, West Columbia has something to offer everyone. Come and experience the charm and community of West Columbia for yourself!

Disclaimer: The data and information cited in this article are sourced from Niche.com and are provided for informational purposes only. This content was assisted by AI and may contain errors. Please verify critical information with trusted sources. Learn more.