Columbia is the Capital City of South Carolina. As the largest city in the state, Columbia is at the heart of a four-county region projected to grow to more than 625,000 people by the year 2010.

It's one of the hottest markets in the South, ranking third last year in the large market category for top 100 announcements, according to Southern Business & Development magazine.

Columbia has easy access from the North and South, with three major interstate highways: I-26, I-20 and I-77 intersecting the city, and both I-85 and I-95 are just a short drive away.

State and local governments join together to support business through low taxes, available tax credits, and a commitment to help existing companies prosper and grow.

If you want city life, with fine restaurants, great cultural events, diverse population and great shopping, Columbia can offer you all that and more. It has all of the benefits of a much larger city, without many of the negatives which normally accompany them. Traffic is not bad, thanks to a terrific road system.

On the other hand, if you prefer a smaller town atmosphere, you have your choice of location and size, from Batesburg-Leesville and Chapin in the west, to Elgin in the Northeast or Swansea, Pelion and Gaston to the South, each with their own feel and flavor.

Or if you're ready to relax and enjoy life, Lake Murray offers the best in relaxed lake living, yet is still convenient to shopping, medical care and activities in Columbia and the surrounding communities.

If moving to Columbia, here are some things you may need to know!

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