Howard County, MD
335,411 residents · 251 sq mi · 1,336.6/sq mi · 12% rural
About Howard County
Howard County is located in the U.S. state of Maryland. As of the 2020 census, the population is 334,529. Since there are no incorporated municipalities, there is no incorporated county seat either. Therefore, its county seat is the unincorporated community of Ellicott City. Howard County is part of the Baltimore metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of suburban and rural experiences, with a population density of 1,335.6 people per square mile. The climate is classified as humid, featuring an annual mean temperature of 54.7°F and 46.1 inches of rainfall per year. The USDA zone 8a allows for a reasonably long growing season, making it feasible for self-sufficient living, although limited rural land may restrict larger-scale agricultural endeavors.
The county faces several natural hazards, with winter weather ranked at 93 and heat waves at 89, which can complicate year-round living. Additionally, the high median home price of $551,300 may pose a barrier for those seeking affordable land for homesteading. While violence is low, with a percentile of 2 out of 100, the overall disaster risk is elevated at a percentile of 72, indicating potential vulnerabilities to various environmental threats.
This area may suit individuals or families who prioritize access to urban amenities while still desiring some degree of rural living. Those with a stable income and the ability to navigate the high cost of housing could thrive here. However, individuals seeking extensive land for farming or complete isolation may find the county’s density and cost prohibitive, making it less ideal for traditional homesteading.