09/04/2026
Weekly Data Dive: Hispanic Heritage Month
Howard County’s Hispanic community is growing, shaping our future and making an important contribution to our local economy and business community.
📈 30,000+ Hispanic or Latino residents now call Howard County home, representing about 9% of the County’s population. In 1970, that number was just 500.
🎓 14.3% of HCPSS students identify as Hispanic or Latino, highlighting the community’s growing representation among the next generation.
🌎 Mexican residents make up the County’s largest Hispanic or Latino origin group, accounting for nearly one-quarter of Howard County’s Hispanic population.
🍗 Hispanic entrepreneurship is contributing to local business growth. Pipilinka Peruvian Charbroiled Chicken received a LIFT Fund loan to support its expansion, helping create three new jobs and retain eight existing jobs.
🌱 In May, the Maryland Innovation Center welcomed Gradyn-Doulah, a woman- and Hispanic-owned custom garden design and coaching business, as an Amplify member.
From residents and students to entrepreneurs building and expanding businesses, Howard County’s Hispanic community continues to strengthen our culture, workforce and economy.