HoCoCounts 2020 Tracks Census Completion, Data

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — An online tool providing real-time statistics about census completion in Howard County has been released. The HoCoCounts 2020 Census dashboard provides the current response rate for Howard County, other Maryland counties and Maryland overall. The deadline for completing the census has been extended to Oct. 31.

“As of May 10, we’ve seen 72.4 percent of Howard County residents complete their census since its launch in March and we’re optimistic about ensuring our residents are counted,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “Information from the census impacts the federal funding that supports critical services and personnel in healthcare, education, emergency management, workforce development and more. This year is the first time the census questionnaire can be completed online, making it easier than ever for residents to respond.”

As of May 10, 62.5 percent of Marylanders had completed the census online, by mail or by phone in less than two months, compared to 72.4 percent of Howard County residents. Howard County currently has the second highest response rate in the state. In 2010, Howard County had a Census response rate of 81 percent, ranking second in the State of Maryland.

“While these are troubling and complex times, we are working with neighbors county-wide to let them know that they can be advocates for increased support and programs that will help us to realize a stronger future together,” said Jacqueline Scott, DCRS director. "We hope that this dashboard provides a high-level view of how much we’ve accomplished over a short period, and how we can encourage others to support the goal of a complete count.”