Also suggest looking into Burtonsville, housing is a little cheaper (food/fun too) and it's closer for both of you. Columbia is nicer developed tho. Don't buy gas in Columbia it's outrageously expensive.

29 is painful during the rush, but if you're headed to BW parkway 32 isn't bad and you get on it before 29 clogs up. You can also pick up 95 to/from the beltway if it's running fast.

Definitely wouldn't consider it ideal tho. I commuted to Arlington from Columbia and couldn't do it long-term. Especially after getting rear ended 3 times, just not worth it. If you're taking 29 all the way be prepared for a side of misery.

EDIT MARC Train from Hanover would or BWI would be ideal, approx 15-25 mins away from Columbia.