Two Howard County towns are getting national attention in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025–26 rankings of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. Ellicott City landed at No. 13—the highest-ranked Maryland town on the list—while Columbia came in at No. 117. The annual rankings evaluate cities based on value, job market, quality of life, and overall desirability.
Ellicott City impressed with a median household income of $162,786, a low unemployment rate of 3.38%, and a growing reputation as a scenic, historic community that still feels connected to the larger Baltimore-Washington corridor. Columbia’s planned-community charm, lakes, festivals, and emphasis on wellness continue to make it a top place to call home.
Maryland placed seven towns on the 250-city list, but Howard County was the only one with two spots.
This year’s list expanded from 150 to over 850 cities, making the competition even tougher. Here’s the 2025–26 Top 10:
Johns Creek, Georgia
Carmel, Indiana
Pearland, Texas
Fishers, Indiana
Cary, North Carolina
League City, Texas
Apex, North Carolina
Leander, Texas
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Troy, Michigan
We might be biased, but we still think Ellicott City and Columbia top the list in heart
