Harford County, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
263,757
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$112,265/yr
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
105,468
1.0% year-over-year change

Harford County population

How many people live in Harford County

Harford County is home to 263,757 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Harford County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
263,757
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
129,734
Female
50.8%
134,023
Value Percent YoY change
Male 129,734 49.2% 0.5%
Female 134,023 50.8% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Harford County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 47,939 18.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 30,767 11.7% -0.3%
25 to 44 67,898 25.7% 1.3%
45 to 64 71,137 27% -1.2%
Over 65 46,016 17.4% 3.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Harford County, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 73% of locals are Caucasian, 14.3% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 242,758 92% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 15,805 6% 0.5%
Non-citizens 5,194 2% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
73%
Black or African American
14.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 192,506 73%
Black or African American 37,734 14.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 523 0.2%
Asian 7,949 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 138 0%
Two or more races 18,948 7.2%
Other 5,959 2.3%

Households in Harford County

A peek inside Harford County households

Harford County has 101,795 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.1% are families, while the remaining 29.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
101,795
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
30,426
Family households
71,369
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 30,426 29.9% 5.2%
Family households 71,369 70.1% 0.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Harford County

The housing landscape of Harford County

Harford County's housing consists of 105,468 units, with 60.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 20.7% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
105,468
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 63,407 60.1%
1 unit, attached 21,869 20.7%
2 units 470 0.4%
3 or 4 units 2,257 2.1%
5 to 9 units 3,985 3.8%
10 to 19 units 7,203 6.8%
20 to 49 units 1,608 1.5%
50 or more units 1,911 1.8%
Mobile home 2,749 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,467
68.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harford County

In Harford County, the median construction year is 1986. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,668 4.4% -6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,187 2.1% -7.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,760 5.5% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,784 12.1% 3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 16,250 15.4% 1.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 18,588 17.6% 0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 18,854 17.9% -4.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16,478 15.6% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,432 8% 4.5%
Built in 2020 or later 1,467 1.4% 68.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Harford County occupancy rates

Out of the 101,795 occupied housing units in Harford County, 79.7% are owner-occupied, while 20.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
101,795
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,703
Owner occupied
81,092
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,703 20.3% 1.8%
Owner occupied 81,092 79.7% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Harford County housing costs

Housing costs in Harford County come to a median of $1,651 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,586.

Median housing costs per month
$1,651/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Harford County
$1,586/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Harford County

Harford County education at a glance

About 31% of the population in Harford County went to high school, while 20.5% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,519 1.2% -20.8%
High school diploma 63,564 31% -1.4%
College diploma 42,053 20.5% -0.9%
Associate degree 18,956 9.2% 5.6%
Bachelor's degree 45,935 22.4% 3.5%
Graduate degree 31,953 15.6% 2.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Harford County

How much people earn in Harford County

The average annual household income in Harford County was $133,148 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $112,265, reflecting a +0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harford County
$133,148/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harford County
$112,265/year
0.8% year-over-year change

Harford County income by age

In Harford County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $124,172. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $141,089 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,108, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $70,571 in earnings. Overall, 92.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,108 -1.3%
25 - 44 $124,172 1.5%
45 - 64 $141,089 -0.3%
Over 65 $70,571 -1.1%
Above poverty level
240,966
Below poverty level
18,477
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 240,966 92.9% 0.1%
Below poverty level 18,477 7.1% 1.9%

Employment in Harford County

Workforce and job types in Harford County

The job market in Harford County is powered by 136,174 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 61.2% are employed by private companies, and 22.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
136,174
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
112,595
Blue collar
23,579
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 112,595 82.7% -0.2%
Blue collar 23,579 17.3% -0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
61.2%
Governmental workers
22.5%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,002 7.4% 1.1%
Private companies 83,392 61.2% -1.4%
Governmental workers 30,614 22.5% -0.6%
Not for profit companies 12,166 8.9% 9.3%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harford County stands at 3.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Harford County

How people get around in Harford County

In Harford County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 111,089 81.9% -1.8%
Taxicab 286 0.2% 12.2%
Bus or trolleybus 457 0.3% -46.2%
Subway or elevated 63 0% N/A
Railroad 264 0.2% 7.3%
Motorcycle 256 0.2% 175.3%
Bicycle 188 0.1% -1.1%
Walk 1,475 1.1% -1.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Harford County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
21001 27,168 11,204 $83,238 $100,294
21005 2,202 835 $125,208 $139,031
21009 33,679 12,940 $121,660 $135,610
21010 239 55 $99,410 $124,729
21013 5,610 1,843 $171,354 $199,912
21014 38,707 15,143 $116,970 $137,146
21015 30,013 11,012 $137,281 $158,650
21017 6,648 2,669 $106,831 $115,633
21028 3,103 1,066 $137,586 $177,811
21034 2,846 1,132 $78,047 $107,805

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FAQs about Harford County demographics 

What is the total population of Harford County?

Harford County has a total population of 263,757 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harford County?

The gender ratio in Harford County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (129,734 residents)
  • 50.8% females (134,023 residents)

What is the median age in Harford County?

The median age in Harford County is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Harford County?

The age distribution in Harford County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (47,939 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (30,767 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (67,898 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (71,137 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (46,016 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harford County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harford County is as follows:
  • White: 73% (192,506 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.3% (37,734 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (523 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (7,949 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (138 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (18,948 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (5,959 residents)

What percentage of the population in Harford County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Harford County.

How many housing units are there in Harford County?

There are 105,468 housing units in Harford County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Harford County and what is the average household size?

Harford County has a total of 101,795 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harford County?

Harford County has a median household income of $112,265, representing a +0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Harford County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Harford County, with a workforce of 136,174 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.7% (112,595 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.3% (23,579 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (10,002 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.2% (83,392 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.5% (30,614 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (12,166 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025