Sponsored Content

The data doesn’t lie: Here’s how Cola stacks up against peer cities

Sponsored by
26. group at Sheraton Rooftop-photo by forrest clonts.jpg

The Elevate Midlands 2023 Report shows where Columbia stands in various sectors.

Photo by Forrest Clonts

Have you ever wondered what strides Columbia is making compared to other cities in the Southeast? The Midlands Business Leadership Group’s Elevate Midlands 2023 Report examines different sectors that support our region’s growth + competitiveness against our peer cities.

Here’s how Columbia ranks:

  • Overall Entrepreneurship: 4/12
  • Employment Diversity: 5/12
  • Overall Talent: 10/12
  • Cost of Living: 5/12
  • Overall Livability: 7/12

Learn what this means (and the opportunities for growth).*

Read the report + get involved

More from COLAtoday
An international bird photography exhibition opens in Columbia this spring, with local bird highlights and the upcoming Flock Fest.
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award is back, spotlighting individuals whose leadership helped shape Columbia’s creative identity.
SoulHAUS Sessions brings civil rights icon Cecil J. Williams to the Koger Center for an intimate artist talk.
Tickets are on sale now for Taste of Lake Murray, supporting Lake Murray’s Independence Day fireworks.
Leadership Columbia offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people, issues, and decisions shaping the Midlands.
Ice storms in SC have caused widespread damage in the past, and as we brace for winter weather, we spoke to a meteorologist to find out why.
The 59-room Lantern Columbia opens inside the former fire station as the Vista continues evolving.
Black Dog Pizza is expected to open in late January on Main Street underneath The Hendrix.
Get to know the musical lineup that will keep you entertained at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day in Five Points Festival, the largest one-day fest in South Carolina.
Find your next great read when you join Richland Library’s Broader Bookshelf Reading Challenge.