Howard County is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in Maryland, thanks to its top-rated schools, exceptional quality of life, thriving arts and cultural scene, beautiful parks, and nationally recognized communities like Columbia and Historic Ellicott City.

With accolades for being one of the country’s best places to live, raise a family, build a career, and enjoy a safe, connected community, Howard County offers something for everyone. Whether you’re new to the area, relocating your family, or simply looking to explore everything the county has to offer, these community resources can help you get connected.

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Education

Howard County Public School System

Consistently ranked among Maryland’s highest-performing school districts, the Howard County Public School System serves more than 57,000 students across 78 schools. The district is recognized for academic excellence, high graduation rates, and innovative programs that prepare students for college and careers.

Higher Education

Howard County is centrally located near several outstanding colleges and universities, providing workforce development, continuing education, and research opportunities.

• Howard Community College
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
• Loyola University Maryland

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Libraries & Lifelong Learning

The Howard County Library System is consistently recognized as one of the nation’s premier public library systems. In addition to books and digital resources, HCLS offers:

• Business research tools
• Makerspaces
• Passport services (select branches)
• Technology classes
• Career development resources
• Programs for children, teens, and adults

With six branches throughout the county, residents and businesses have access to lifelong learning opportunities and valuable community programming.

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Healthcare

Howard County residents have access to nationally recognized healthcare providers, specialty practices, urgent care centers, and wellness services. Major healthcare resources include:

• Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center
• Johns Hopkins Community Physicians
• University of Maryland Urgent Care
• Sheppard Pratt
• Howard County Health Department

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Parks, Recreation & Quality of Life

Howard County is known for its exceptional quality of life, featuring:

• More than 10,000 acres of parkland and over 50 developed parks
• Miles of walking and biking trails
• Robinson Nature Center
• Centennial Park
• Patapsco Valley State Park
• Merriweather Post Pavilion
• The Chrysalis at Merriweather Park
• Columbia Association recreation facilities
• Historic Ellicott City

Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, arts and culture, or family-friendly activities, Howard County offers amenities for every lifestyle.

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Shopping & Dining

Howard County features a diverse mix of locally owned businesses, national retailers, and destination dining.

Popular shopping and entertainment areas include:

• Downtown Columbia
• The Mall in Columbia
• Maple Lawn
• Historic Ellicott City
• Turf Valley Towne Square
• Columbia’s Village Centers

From award-winning restaurants and breweries to boutique shops and national brands, Howard County offers something for everyone.

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Transportation

Howard County’s central location provides convenient access throughout the Baltimore-Washington region. Transportation options include:

• Interstate 95
• U.S. Route 29
• Interstate 70
• MARC Train access nearby
• Regional bus connections
• RTA bus service
• HoCo RapidRide on-demand transit
• Go Howard commuter resources

Howard County continues to invest in transportation solutions that improve mobility for residents, employees, and visitors.

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Community Support Services

Howard County offers a wide network of organizations dedicated to supporting residents through every stage of life. Helpful resources include:

• Association of Community Services of Howard County
• Community Action Council of Howard County
• Howard County Department of Community Resources & Services
• Maryland Access Point
• CAREAPP Howard County
• Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center
• Bridges to Housing Stability
• FISH of Howard County

These organizations provide assistance with housing, food security, transportation, healthcare, aging services, disability resources, veterans services, financial assistance, and more.

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Nonprofit Community

Howard County is home to hundreds of nonprofit organizations serving the community through education, health, human services, arts, environmental stewardship, and economic development.

Organizations collaborate through networks like the Association of Community Services to strengthen the nonprofit sector and improve quality of life throughout Howard County.

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Government

Howard County has once again earned a AAA credit rating, the highest possible score, from all three bond ratings agencies including Fitch Ratings, Moody’s Investor Services, and Standard & Poor’s. In 2026, Howard County ranks among the top 2% of counties nationwide to earn this vote of confidence based on a stable outlook from experts.

There are no incorporated cities or towns in Howard County, so the county government provides all local government services.

Current Elected Officials

Howard County Executive – Calvin Ball (D)

County Council

• • District 1 – Liz Walsh (D)
  • District 2 – Opel Jones (D – Chair)
  • District 3 – Christiana Rigby (D – Vice Chair)
  • District 4 – Deb Jung (D)
  • District 5 – David Yungmann (R)

Howard County also has dozens of boards and commissions that help to foster citizen involvement in government. The county’s boards and commissions cover everything from the environment, fire and rescue, and consumer protection.

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Looking for More Resources?

The Howard County Chamber of Commerce is proud to connect businesses with the people, organizations, and resources that help our community thrive. Whether you’re relocating, launching a business, or expanding your network, we’re here to help you make the right connections.