Columbia City, IN, United States

Capital City

The population of 9,892 may seem quaint, but Columbia City's bureaucratic headaches are no small matter. While the city has seen steady growth since the 2010 census, the historic jailhouse and 130-year-old county courthouse are a persistent reminder of the town's creaky infrastructure. Winters can be brutal, with temperatures plunging below -24°F. And with just 12% of the workforce employed in manufacturing, those seeking big city opportunities may find the options lacking. Still, the city's strategic location, 25 miles from Fort Wayne, makes it an appealing option for those content with a slower pace of life.