Howard County Public RecordsMaryland

As of 2022, Howard County, MD has a population of approximately 330,558. The median age is about 40.8 years. The gender distribution is nearly equal, with 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the population is 49% White, 21% Asian, 19% Black or African American, 7% Hispanic or Latino, and 4% of other races or two or more races. Howard County is known for its diversity and high level of educational attainment.

Howard County, MD, boasts 77 public schools, including 12 high schools, with a graduation rate of 93% (2023). Approximately 63% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, one of the highest rates in Maryland. Schools consistently rank in the state's top 5, with SAT averages above 1200. The county invests heavily in school safety and offers award-winning STEM, arts, and Advanced Placement programs. Adult education is supported through Howard Community College, serving over 9,000 students annually.

Howard County, MD boasts a high employment rate, with just 2.1% unemployment as of early 2024. Major employment sectors include educational services, health care, and social assistance (22.4%), professional, scientific, and technical services (18.1%), and public administration (10.5%). About 61% of residents work in management, business, science, and arts occupations. Over 71% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 31 minutes; notable employment destinations include Baltimore (21%) and Washington, D.C. (13%). Howard County’s economic landscape reflects its affluent, well-educated population and proximity to major metropolitan areas.

Howard County, MD, boasts a homeownership rate of about 70% and a median home value of around $520,000 as of 2024. Rental rates average $2,200/month. Property values have increased by roughly 5% year-over-year. Housing options range from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments, with Columbia, Ellicott City, and Clarksville among popular neighborhoods. The county's property tax rate is $1.014 per $100 assessed value. Howard County is known for strong schools, diverse communities, and a high quality of life, contributing to strong market demand.

Howard County, MD, with over 240,000 registered voters in 2022, holds primary, general, and occasional special elections. The 2022 general election saw a 63% turnout. Democrats comprise about 50% of registrants, Republicans 25%, and unaffiliated 23%. Key issues include education funding, development, and public safety. Voting is managed by the Howard County Board of Elections, with 12 early voting centers and more than 70 Election Day polling places. In 2022, Democrats won major county offices, consistent with recent trends. Polling location information and results are available on the county elections website.

Howard County, MD, is consistently ranked among the safest counties in Maryland. In 2022, the county reported a crime rate of 1,300 incidents per 100,000 residents—well below the national average of 2,300. Violent crime remains low, with only 1.8 incidents per 1,000 people, and property crime rates have decreased by 9% since 2021. The Howard County Police Department emphasizes community policing and transparency, offering accessible online crime reporting and regular public safety updates.