Transportation in Columbus City

Columbus, Stillwater County, MT, is a small city where personal vehicles dominate transportation—about 80% of commuters drive alone, with car ownership rates exceeding 95% of households. Public transit options are minimal to non-existent, resulting in very low transit ridership. The average one-way commute time is approximately 23 minutes, slightly below the national average. Key transportation infrastructure includes access to Interstate 90 and local highways. Major employment hubs are the Stillwater Mining Company and local healthcare and education facilities, with most jobs located within or near city limits, contributing to short commutes.

Education in Columbus City

Columbus, the county seat of Stillwater, MT, hosts Columbus High School, serving grades 9-12, with an enrollment around 220 students and a graduation rate of 93%. The school district encompasses 3 schools (elementary, middle, high), and the average student-teacher ratio is 14:1. Columbus High scores a 6/10 on GreatSchools. Around 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Educational programs include AP courses and CTE options. School safety measures include secure entrances and emergency drills. Adult education opportunities are available through nearby community colleges and online programs.

Columbus City Demographics

As of 2020, Columbus city in Stillwater County, Montana, has a population of 1,857. The median age is 42.1 years, with 50.2% female and 49.8% male residents. The racial composition is predominantly White (94.6%), with small percentages of Native American (1.5%), two or more races (2.5%), and other races. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 2.1% of the population.

Columbus City Housing

Columbus, city in Stillwater County, MT, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with median home values around $320,000 in 2024—a 5% increase from last year. Median rent is $1,150/month. Housing types include single-family homes, ranch-style, and some newer developments. Key neighborhoods are Valley Creek, Riverbend, and downtown. Property taxes average 0.83% of assessed value, or about $2,650/year for a median-priced home. The market shows steady growth, driven by local amenities and scenic surroundings.

Columbus City Healthcare

Columbus, in Stillwater County, MT, is primarily served by Stillwater Billings Clinic, a 25-bed critical access hospital, and Columbus Health Mart Pharmacy, with few local outpatient clinics. Residents often travel to Billings for specialty care. About 14% of Stillwater County residents are uninsured, with approximately 90% being White and a median age of 44. Common health issues include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and injuries from ranch work. Healthcare access is challenged by rural distance: the county’s doctor-to-patient ratio is 1:2,184, below state and national averages, impacting timely primary and preventative care.

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