Howard County's population is flat in size and aging in composition. Estimated at 84,500 in 2006, the population count has remained within the range of about 87,000 (in 1980) and 81,000 (in 1990) for the last 35 years. Net growth since 1970 is 1.6%, compared to Indiana's 22% and the nation's 47%.
Between 2005 and 2006 the County's population declined by 347 even though there were 353 more births than deaths. A net of 61 people moved into the County from other countries while a net of 761 moved from Howard County to elsewhere in the United States.
In 1990 the median age was 34.1; half the population was older than 34.1 years, half younger. By 2006 the median age had increased by nearly four years, to 37.9 - two years older than Indiana's median and 3.5 years older than the nation's. Today 40% of the County's residents are 45 or older, compared to 33% in 1990. Seniors (65+) account for 14% of the population.
Consistent with its aging population and other national trends, household compositions have shifted since 1990, with fewer households headed by married couples, more single parents, and more people living alone. In 2000 less than one-quarter of households (22%) consisted of a married couple living with their children, the same as in the nation as a whole. Single parents headed 9.6% of households and 22% of households with children.
Sources of income in 2004 indicate that more than a quarter of the population was retired. Ten percent of households used food stamps in 2004; 78% of households had earned income.
Non-Hispanic Caucasians account for 90% of the County's population, African Americans 7.0%, Hispanics 2.1%, and Asians 1.0%. Seventy-six percent of County residents were born in Indiana, 2.1% in other countries. Additional population statistics are presented in the following table.