About our Neighborhood
Columbia City's roots go back to the 1890's, when Columbia City was it's own city, independent from Seattle. But just 16 years after it's creation, it was annexed by Seattle after a nearly-unanimous 109 to 3 votes.
The neighborhood's African American population sharply rose after World War 2, when many families moved there, begining it's journey to the most diverse American neighborhood.
In 1980, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, where it remains today. Part of this was the Columbia City Design Guidelines, ensuring buildings keep a traditional feel rather than a modern look.
Population
Columbia City first reached "City" status in 1905 after reaching a population of 1,500. Over the next 30 years, the population grew to 7,000, before spiking just 10 years later, caused by World War Two.
Columbia City's population during the 50's, 60's, and 70's, however, dropped as 20% of white resident's left the area. But that number has been climbing ever since, and in 2016, the populatino officially hit 20,000, made up of 48% white people, 25% black, 16% asian, and 11 percent latino, pacific islander, or another race.