Support Us Button Widget

Columbia in 2101: Your predictions for the future

Readers predict Columbia in 2101 will thrive with healthcare and manufacturing, a booming population, high-speed trains, and a pedestrian-friendly future.

NL Version Future.gif

This Sora AI generated image imagines Columbia in 2101.

Image created with Sora

We asked, and you answered — what will Columbia look like in the 22nd century? From high-speed trains to booming industries, here’s what readers had to say about Soda City’s future.

A city on the rise

Many of you believe Columbia will be one of the best places to live in the US, thanks to thriving industries like healthcare and manufacturing, which were the top predictions, making up a combined 62% of responses. A strong economy and innovation could make the city a hub for both business and leisure.

We credit the new Regional Training Center launched way back in 2025.

More people, more possibilities

Most readers think Cola’s population will double or even triple, with 52% predicting it will be twice its current size, while 32% expect it to grow even larger. With that growth, expect better infrastructure — one reader envisions “better roads”, while another predicts Columbia will finally become a “public transportation rail center.” Fingers crossed something like that is in the works.

Getting from A to B

Forget sitting in traffic flowing through podcasts — 51% of readers think Columbians in 2101 will commute by high-speed trains, while 20% predict personal flying drones. One reader believes Columbia will be “pedestrian-friendly” by then, meaning more walkable neighborhoods and fewer car headaches. Here’s the plan.

And for the skeptics...

Of course, not everyone was so optimistic. Some of you foresee Columbia as a “post-apocalyptic landscape” — but hey, if that’s the case, at least we’ll still have Zesto’s cone in the sky for space travelers.

More from COLAtoday
Richland County is launching a 41,000-square-foot regional training center to support workforce development, economic growth, and major employers like Scout Motors.
Experience chef collaborations, wine-paired vinyl dinners, and a music and craft beer showcase April 22-27, Tuesday through Sunday, at Columbia Food & Wine Festival.
The annual Tiki Week at Bourbon is moving to The Dragon Room, blending tiki-inspired food and cocktails with Asian cuisine.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Celebrate the Oscars in style with fine dining, live entertainment, and a red carpet experience at The Venue hosted by The Nick.
Gray Collegiate Academy will be opening its new satellite campus in Irmo this August 2025, initially hosting ~600 students, grades six through 10.
Here are some of your favorite hot soups at nine restaurants in the Columbia, SC area from Mexican dishes to spicy Asian noodle bowls.
Tina Roy drops the “Not Like Us (G-Mix),” a custom Kendrick Lamar remix celebrating the team’s skills on the court.
Wear pink to the 4th annual Cola Rosé Shower event and donate feminine hygiene products all while raising awareness on women’s healthcare in the Midlands.
Columbia’s largest St. Pat’s in Five Points festival returns with live music, featuring several regional performances, on Saturday, March 15.