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Columbus, IN

Frequently asked questions

Columbus, IN

Columbus is a city in, and the county seat of, Bartholomew County, Indiana, United States. The population was 50,474 at the 2020 Census. The city is known for its architectural significance, having commissioned numerous noted works of modern architecture and public art since the mid-20th century; the annual program Exhibit Columbus celebrates this legacy. Located about 40 mi (64 km) south of Indianapolis, on the east fork of the White River, it is the state's 20th-largest city. It is the principal city of the Columbus, Indiana metropolitan statistical area, which encompasses all of Bartholomew County. Columbus is the birthplace of former Indiana Governor and former Vice President of the United States, Mike Pence.

Columbus is the headquarters of the engine company Cummins, Inc. In 2004 the city was named as one of "The Ten Most Playful Towns" by Nick Jr. Family Magazine. In the July 2005 edition of GQ magazine, Columbus was named as one of the "62 Reasons to Love Your Country". Columbus won the national contest "America in Bloom" in 2006, and in late 2008, National Geographic Traveler ranked Columbus 11th on its historic destinations list, describing the city as "authentic, unique, and unspoiled."

The Driftwood and Flatrock Rivers converge at Columbus to form the East Fork of the White River. According to the 2010 census, Columbus has a total area of 27.886 square miles (72.22 km²), of which 27.5 square miles (71.22 km²) (or 98.62%) is land and 0.386 square miles (1.00 km²) (or 1.38%) is water.

The land developed as Columbus was bought by General John Tipton and Luke Bonesteel in 1820. Tipton built a log cabin on Mount Tipton, a small hill overlooking White River and the surrounding flat, heavily forested and swampy valley. It held wetlands of the river. The town was first known as Tiptona, named in honor of Tipton. The town's name was changed to Columbus on March 20, 1821. Many people believe Tipton was upset by the name change, but no evidence exists to prove this. Nonetheless, he decided to leave the newly founded town and did not return.

Columbus focuses on health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include The Fitness Loft Columbus, Zen Fitness, and Total Fitness of Columbus. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Columbus, such as the Mill Race Park Path and Tangeman Woods Loop. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Columbus, IN include Columbus People Trail, Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum, and Kidscommons Children's Museum.

Population: 48,307 (2021). Elevation: 646 feet (197 m). Area: 28.75 sq mi (74.47 km²). ZIP Code: 47201. Area code: 812.

FAQs

How did Columbus, IN got its name?

It has been mentioned that Col. Bartholomew and John Tipton, an Indiana State Representative, and fellow officer, rode to the county on horseback in May of 1820 to view the area that would become Bartholomew County. John Tipton purchased several parcels of land near the confluence of the White and Driftwood Rivers and later built a cabin. In January of 1821, the Indiana Legislature created Bartholomew County and briefly named the new county seat “Tiptona” in honor of John Tipton. However, by March the politicians had recounted their original decision and named the area “Columbus”, in honor of the explorer, Christopher Columbus.

Is Columbus, IN a good place to live?

Columbus is in Bartholomew County and is one of the best places to live in Indiana. Living in Columbus offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Columbus, there are a lot of parks. Many families and young professionals live in Columbus and residents tend to lean conservative. 

What are the demographics in Columbus, IN?

Columbus, IN is home to a population of 50.9k people, of which 87.9% are citizens. As of 2022, 15.7% of Columbus, IN residents were born outside of the country (8.01k people). In 2022, there were 5.74 times more White (Non-Hispanic) residents (37k people) in Columbus, IN than any other race or ethnicity. There were 6.45k Asian (non-Hispanic) and 1.71k White (Hispanic) residents, the second and third most common ethnic groups.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Columbus

Columbus Parks and Recreation Department

The Fitness Loft Columbus

Zen Fitness 

Total Fitness of Columbus

Mill Race Park Path 

Tangeman Woods Loop

Columbus People Trail

Zaharakos Ice Cream Parlor and Museum

Kidscommons Children's Museum

Bartholomew History

Niche

DataUSA

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