Howard County is part of the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, Maryland Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is also part of the larger Washington-Baltimore-Arlington Combined Statistical Area, DC-MD-VA-WV-PA. This thriving and vibrant economy is situated in the U. S. and is the perfect choice for businesses looking to start or expand in the Mid-Atlantic.
With its central location between Baltimore and Washington, D. C., Howard County offers more than 70 million square feet of retail space, making it an ideal place to do business. Howard County was created in 1851, having been formerly (since 1831) a district of Anne Arundel County. It is named after the statesman and Revolutionary War hero John Eager Howard. The county seat, Ellicott City (formerly Ellicott's Mills), became the first railroad terminal in the United States (1830) as part of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.
Columbia's planned community was founded in the mid-1960s. Living in Howard County offers a variety of options for everyone. From historic cities to sprawling suburbs and rural retreats with urban amenities, there is something for everyone. In addition to its proximity to Washington D. C.
and Baltimore, Howard County has a strong local economy with policies that encourage local businesses and corporations. There are many cultural centers, such as the Howard County Center for African American Literature, the Howard County Living Farm Heritage Museum, Toby's Dinner Theater, and the Columbia Orchestra. Howard County is also home to some of the country's most prestigious universities, such as the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Johns Hopkins University, George Washington University and Georgetown. The food and beer scene is one of the most discreet in the area. Popular jobs include business and professional services, especially in specialized industries such as science and technology. When it comes to housing options, Howard County offers the best of all worlds.
Providing greater transparency and high-quality data is one of the top priorities of the Howard County Government. Students who choose to attend public school are part of the Howard County Public School System, which has more than 78 schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. The most popular modes of public transportation are buses, ferries, and ridesharing.