Living & Relocating

Designated as an “All-America County” by the National Civic League, Howard County is a hidden gem—one of the nation’s top spots to live, work, and play! Picture a perfect mix of rolling farms, historic charm, suburban ease, and urban convenience. Whether you're strolling through Columbia’s bustling shopping scene or soaking in the quaint, cobblestone streets of Historic Ellicott City, where antiques, unique boutiques, and cozy eateries await, there's always something to discover. No wonder MONEY magazine named the Columbia/Ellicott City areas the top places to live in America. It’s the perfect place to put down roots—and have some fun while you’re at it.

Howard County Has Also Been Recognized As:

National Recognition for Columbia:

Columbia has earned its place among the nation's top cities with numerous accolades:

Ranked #8 in 2025 Top 100 Best Places to Live in America by Livability
Ranked #7 on the list of Best Cities to Live in America and #5 on the list of Best Cities to Raise a Family by Niche 2025
Ranked #16 on the list of Happiest Cities in America and #1 Best City for Women by WalletHub 2025
Named Maryland’s “Best Cities to Raise a Family in America” and “Best Cities to Live in America” by Niche 2024
Named Maryland’s “Happiest Cities in America” by WalletHub 2024
Ranked #1 Best City for Women by WalletHub 2023
Ranked #7 Best City for People with Disabilities by WalletHub 2023
Ranked #2 as the Happiest Cities in America by WalletHub 2022

A Safe, Family-Friendly Community

Columbia is known for its safety and family-friendly atmosphere:

Ranked #8 on the list of Safest Cities in America by WalletHub 2024
Ranked #2 Safest City in the US by WalletHub 2023
Ranked #1 "Safest city in the U.S." by WalletHub (2019 - 2021)

Historic Charm of Ellicott City

Ellicott City, with its rich history, has also been recognized nationally:

Ranked #10 in MONEY Magazine 2021-22 "Best Places to Live"
Ranked #4 in MONEY Magazine 2018 "Best Places to Live"

Top Local Amenities

Howard County boasts excellent local institutions and attractions:

“Best Educated” (adults over 25), according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Ranked “Seventh Best School System” in the country by Forbes
Recognized as one of the “First Among Great Public Library Systems” by American Libraries
Ranked “#2 Most Technologically Advanced Community in the U.S.” by USA Today
Ranked “#9 Best Quality of Life” by American City Business Journals

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Ranked #4 out of the "Top 10 Amphitheaters in America" by Rolling Stone Magazine

Special Recognition for Local Venues

Belmont Manor and Historic Estate received the 2019 "Couples' Choice Award" for venues from Wedding Wire

Howard County is where active living meets relaxation, with endless opportunities for outdoor fun. From six regional parks to 24 community parks, you’re never far from green space. Whether you’re teeing off at one of the seven golf courses, casting a line at one of the five serene lakes, or venturing out on over 200 miles of walking, hiking, and biking trails, there’s always something to explore. It’s no surprise that Sports Illustrated recognized Howard County as one of just eight “Good Sports Communities of the Year.” This place knows how to keep you moving—and entertained!

The county’s rich history is woven into its landscape, with the Historic National Road marking the spot of the nation’s first railroad terminus. Then there’s Merriweather Post Pavilion—one of the premier outdoor venues in the country, hosting unforgettable live performances that make it a cultural cornerstone of Howard County. Not to mention Columbia, one of the largest and most innovative planned communities in the U.S., offering everything from vibrant neighborhoods to bustling urban spaces.

Nestled in the Baltimore-Washington Corridor, Howard County is a prime destination for businesses and entrepreneurs. It's home to numerous corporate and regional headquarters, high-tech firms, and manufacturers—all benefiting from this strategic location. The county is buzzing with opportunity and innovation.

For a list of the area’s major employers, click here.

On top of that, Howard County residents are among the wealthiest in the nation, with a median household income of $101,672. As one of only about 30 counties nationwide to hold a triple-A bond rating from all three rating agencies, it’s clear Howard County’s economy is as strong as they come. Over the last decade, more than 35,000 new jobs have been created, and the county boasts the highest concentration of professional, scientific, and technical workers in the state.

Once you experience it, you’ll see why Howard County is more than just a place to live—it’s where Maryland truly comes together.