Epicenter of the New South, Columbia, South Carolina, Boasts a Pro-Business Attitude, Quality of Life - Attracting Growing Financial Interests and Relocating Businesses

Businesses Relocating, Expanding Require Office Space Tailored to Fit Needs

As the capital of South Carolina, Columbia is a city rich with history. The Columbia area, also known as the Midlands of South Carolina, is a unique and special region. There are numerous things for the entire family to see and do throughout the city – from a concert at the Colonial Center and ice show at the Carolina Coliseum, to a Broadway show at the Koger Center for the Arts. There’s also a regatta at Lake Murray, tour of historic homes from the 16th century, and an amazing view at Finlay Park.

Surrounded by three major rivers and the 50,000-acre lake Murray, combined with a temperate climate, Columbia is a great place for recreation. The lack of traffic congestion in the area makes it easy to get to and get around. Those who enjoy music and the arts will enjoy the live music and theatre throughout the parks.

Besides offering a sophisticated cultural scene and an active arts community, Columbia also has a lot to offer businesses. Ranked 17th in favorable business climate by Forbes Magazine, Columbia provides a unique variety of business incentives; such as a 20 percent state tax credit for the development or lease of qualifying office facilities, a state corporate tax rate at 5 percent and no inventory tax. It is also worth mentioning the fact that South Carolina has the lowest unionization rate in the country at only 3.7 percent. It ranks third in the United States for productivity and has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country.

Columbia is one of the fastest growing metro areas in the southeast - showing an increase in population of 19 percent since 1990. This growth is attractive to new and innovative companies looking for an educated and productive workforce. The Columbia Region ranks 23rd in the nation for doctoral degrees and 32nd for college degrees.

Growing financial interests and relocating businesses find Columbia’s pro-business attitude and great quality of life appealing. The vast availability of contiguous office space and competitive rates are appealing to businesses considering Columbia as a possible relocation choice. With a number of new properties recently introduced to the market in the first half of 2006, tenants have a variety of choices to fit their needs.