Columbia Tower (CAE)

📍 About Columbia Tower (CAE)

Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is located in West Columbia, South Carolina, and serves as the main commercial and cargo airport for the region. With a low cost of living, mild winters, and a growing city center, Columbia offers a friendly southern lifestyle and easy access to outdoor recreation.

🏡 Where to Live

Popular Areas

• Lexington – Great schools, family-friendly, suburban lifestyle
• Cayce – Closest to CAE, affordable, quiet neighborhoods
• West Columbia – Minutes from the airport, convenient
• Downtown Columbia – Urban, walkable, restaurants and bars
• Irmo – Suburban community with good schools and parks

🚗 Commute Times to CAE

• 0–10 min: West Columbia, Cayce
• 10–20 min: Lexington, Downtown Columbia
• 20–30 min: Irmo, Forest Acres

🎓 Top School Districts

• Lexington County School District One – A-rated schools
• Lexington-Richland District Five – Strong academics, especially in Irmo

🧳 Things to Do

• Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – One of the best zoos in the Southeast
• Congaree National Park – Free hiking and kayaking 30 minutes away
• The Vista & Main Street District – Dining, shopping, nightlife
• Lake Murray – Boating, fishing, swimming in summer

✈️ Nearby Airports

• CAE: Columbia Metropolitan Airport (on-site)
• Charlotte Douglas (CLT): ~1.5 hrs north
• Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP): ~1.5 hrs northwest

💰 Cost of Living

• Median home price: ~$250,000 (Lexington/Cayce)
• 1-bedroom rent: ~$1,100–$1,400/month
• Utilities: ~$170/month
• Groceries & gas: Below national average
• State taxes: SC has income and sales tax

☀️ Weather

• Winter: Mild, occasional freezing temps
• Spring: Warm and pleasant
• Summer: Hot and humid, upper 80s–90s°F
• Fall: Warm start, cooler later with changing leaves

🛫 ATC-Specific Tips

• West Columbia and Cayce are the closest and most convenient
• AC in car and home is essential due to heat and humidity
• Many controllers live in Lexington or Irmo for school options

📦 Moving Tips

• Summer can be hot—move early in the day
• Rental homes in Irmo and Lexington go fast
• Explore Cayce/West Columbia for budget-friendly starter options

❓ FAQs

• Is Columbia safe?
  Most suburbs (Lexington, Irmo, West Columbia) are very safe. Use caution downtown at night.
• Do I need AWD?
  No, winters are mild. Just basic all-season tires will work.
• Is South Carolina humid?
  Yes—especially in summer. AC is essential.