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

Total population
336,328
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$149,763/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
125,286
0.6% year-over-year change

Howard County population

How many people live in Howard County

Howard County is home to 336,328 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Howard County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
336,328
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
165,829
Female
50.7%
170,499
Value Percent YoY change
Male 165,829 49.3% 0.7%
Female 170,499 50.7% 0.7%
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 Howard County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 26.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
26.6%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 64,890 19.3% -0.5%
15 to 24 41,530 12.4% 0.5%
25 to 44 89,032 26.5% 0.8%
45 to 64 89,601 26.6% -0.0%
Over 65 51,275 15.2% 3.9%
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 Howard County, 74.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.8% of locals are Caucasian, 20% are African American and 19.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
74.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17.4%
Non-citizens
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 251,704 74.8% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 58,462 17.4% 3.7%
Non-citizens 26,162 7.8% 4.3%
Racial breakdown
White
46.8%
Black or African American
20%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
19.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.2%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 157,552 46.8%
Black or African American 67,150 20%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,091 0.3%
Asian 64,745 19.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 134 0%
Two or more races 31,091 9.2%
Other 14,565 4.3%

Households in Howard County

A peek inside Howard County households

Howard County has 121,065 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 72.7% are families, while the remaining 27.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
121,065
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
33,103
Family households
87,962
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 33,103 27.3% 3.7%
Family households 87,962 72.7% -0.2%
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 Howard County

The housing landscape of Howard County

Howard County's housing consists of 125,286 units, with 50.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 22.4% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
125,286
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 62,770 50.1%
1 unit, attached 28,061 22.4%
2 units 622 0.5%
3 or 4 units 1,573 1.3%
5 to 9 units 7,287 5.8%
10 to 19 units 12,245 9.8%
20 to 49 units 3,176 2.5%
50 or more units 8,480 6.8%
Mobile home 879 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 193 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,862
71.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Howard County

In Howard County, the median construction year is 1989. About 1.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,339 1.9% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 820 0.6% -17.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,718 3% 3.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,404 6.7% 3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 21,050 16.8% -3.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 28,675 22.9% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 23,487 18.8% -0.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 17,584 14% 4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 17,347 13.8% 2.0%
Built in 2020 or later 1,862 1.5% 71.0%
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.

Howard County occupancy rates

Out of the 121,065 occupied housing units in Howard County, 71.5% are owner-occupied, while 28.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
121,065
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
34,532
Owner occupied
86,533
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 34,532 28.5% 1.7%
Owner occupied 86,533 71.5% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.4%
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.

Howard County housing costs

Housing costs in Howard County come to a median of $2,301 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,099.

Median housing costs per month
$2,301/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 Howard County
$2,099/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 Howard County

Howard County education at a glance

About 17.1% of the population in Howard County went to high school, while 13.8% pursued college studies. Another 5.9% earned an associate degree and 29.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 30.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,069 2.8% 17.4%
High school diploma 43,856 17.1% 1.0%
College diploma 35,422 13.8% -0.7%
Associate degree 15,205 5.9% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 75,619 29.5% -0.6%
Graduate degree 79,240 30.9% 2.5%
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 Howard County

How much people earn in Howard County

The average annual household income in Howard County was $184,243 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $149,763, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Howard County
$184,243/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Howard County
$149,763/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Howard County income by age

In Howard County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $148,154. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $181,793 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,536, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $110,656 in earnings. Overall, 94.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,536 1.0%
25 - 44 $148,154 3.9%
45 - 64 $181,793 1.5%
Over 65 $110,656 3.0%
Above poverty level
312,491
Below poverty level
17,169
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 312,491 94.8% 0.5%
Below poverty level 17,169 5.2% 3.2%

Employment in Howard County

Workforce and job types in Howard County

The job market in Howard County is powered by 175,641 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 90.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 9.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 55.9% are employed by private companies, and 22.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
175,641
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
159,142
Blue collar
16,499
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 159,142 90.6% -0.2%
Blue collar 16,499 9.4% 8.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
55.9%
Governmental workers
22.9%
Not for profit companies
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,460 9.4% 0.7%
Private companies 98,139 55.9% 1.8%
Governmental workers 40,279 22.9% -2.0%
Not for profit companies 20,763 11.8% -0.1%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
-3.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Howard County stands at 3.5%, 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 Howard County

How people get around in Howard County

In Howard County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 70.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 123,299 70.3% -2.5%
Taxicab 401 0.2% -24.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,248 0.7% -30.9%
Subway or elevated 703 0.4% N/A
Railroad 712 0.4% -7.9%
Ferryboat 13 0% -18.8%
Motorcycle 106 0.1% 53.6%
Bicycle 118 0.1% 34.1%
Walk 1,554 0.9% -4.0%
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 Howard County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
20723 36,866 12,497 $138,113 $176,427
20701 513 358 $85,594 $111,538
20759 6,624 1,993 $250,001 $333,605
20763 2,601 1,142 $76,842 $126,619
20777 3,221 1,097 $226,146 $313,062
20794 16,814 3,928 $116,406 $137,847
21029 13,607 4,056 $243,542 $293,475
21036 2,569 882 $218,036 $254,369
21042 43,327 15,099 $190,061 $221,122
21043 48,525 17,568 $148,125 $177,430

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FAQs about Howard County demographics 

What is the total population of Howard County?

Howard County has a total population of 336,328 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Howard County?

The gender ratio in Howard County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (165,829 residents)
  • 50.7% females (170,499 residents)

What is the median age in Howard County?

The median age in Howard County is 39.8.

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

The age distribution in Howard County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (64,890 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (41,530 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (89,032 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.6% (89,601 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (51,275 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Howard County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Howard County is as follows:
  • White: 46.8% (157,552 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20% (67,150 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (1,091 residents)
  • Asian: 19.2% (64,745 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (134 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.2% (31,091 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (14,565 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 74.8% of the population in Howard County.

How many housing units are there in Howard County?

There are 125,286 housing units in Howard County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Howard County has a total of 121,065 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Howard County?

Howard County has a median household income of $149,763, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Howard County, with a workforce of 175,641 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 90.6% (159,142 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 9.4% (16,499 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (16,460 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.9% (98,139 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.9% (40,279 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.8% (20,763 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