Introduction
Prince George’s County has grown into one of the most dynamic counties in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, combining a historically rich Black community, a booming tourism economy centered on National Harbor, and one of the most exciting entertainment developments in the region’s recent history. Bordering the nation’s capital, the county continues to attract new residents and major investment heading into 2026.
This guide covers Prince George’s County’s population, economy, top attractions, and what’s shaping its future.
Quick Facts About Prince George’s County
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| State | Maryland |
| County Seat | Upper Marlboro |
| Population (2026) | Approximately 976,000–981,000 |
| Rank in Maryland | 2nd most populous county |
| Median Household Income (2024) | $101,798 |
| Median Age | 38.5 years |
| Bordering | Eastern Washington, D.C. |
Prince George’s County’s Population and Demographics
As of 2026, Prince George’s County’s population is estimated between approximately 976,000 and 981,000 residents, depending on the data source, reflecting continued steady growth. The county has grown significantly over the past decade and a half, up from 866,442 residents in 2010, a nearly 13% increase.
This growth keeps Prince George’s County firmly in place as Maryland’s second-most populous county, trailing only neighboring Montgomery County, and home to roughly 15.5% of the state’s total population.
A Historically Significant Black Community
Prince George’s County holds particular significance as one of the wealthiest and most populous majority-Black counties in the United States. Non-Hispanic Black or African American residents make up approximately 58.8% of the population, significantly higher than the national average. The county also has a substantial and growing Hispanic population, making up roughly 22.5% to 23.9% of residents.
Population Snapshot Table
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| 2026 Population Estimate | ~976,000–981,000 |
| 2010 Population | 866,442 |
| Growth Since 2010 | ~12.7% |
| Black or African American | ~58.8% |
| Hispanic | ~22.5%–23.9% |
| White | ~10.8%–12.4% |
The Local Economy
Prince George’s County has built a strong, diversified economy anchored by its proximity to Washington, D.C., along with a rapidly growing hospitality and tourism sector. The county’s median household income reached $101,798 in 2024, reflecting a relatively strong local economic position within the state.
Hospitality and tourism alone have grown into an economic force worth more than $620 million, supporting over 10,000 jobs and generating more than $50 million in local tax revenue each year. The county benefits from strong regional transportation access, including proximity to BWI, Reagan National, and Dulles International airports, along with Amtrak service through New Carrollton Station.
Top Attractions in Prince George’s County
National Harbor
National Harbor stands out as the county’s signature destination, a 300-acre waterfront development stretching 1.5 miles along the Potomac River. The area combines dining, shopping, and entertainment, featuring attractions like the Capital Wheel, the Tanger Outlets, more than 160 stores, roughly 40 restaurants, and the massive Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.
MGM National Harbor
The MGM National Harbor Resort Casino has become one of the region’s major entertainment and gaming destinations since opening, drawing significant visitor traffic and contributing meaningfully to the county’s tourism economy.
Other Major Attractions
- Six Flags America, a well-known regional amusement and water park
- FedEx Field, a major sports and entertainment venue
- University of Maryland, anchoring the county’s academic and research presence
- National Wildlife Visitor Center, offering nature-based recreation and education
Attractions Table
| Attraction | Type |
|---|---|
| National Harbor | Waterfront dining, shopping, entertainment |
| MGM National Harbor | Resort and casino |
| Six Flags America | Amusement and water park |
| FedEx Field | Sports and entertainment venue |
| University of Maryland | Higher education and research |
Sphere National Harbor: A Major New Development
One of the biggest stories shaping Prince George’s County’s future is the announced development of Sphere National Harbor, a smaller-scale version of the immersive entertainment venue made famous in Las Vegas. Unveiled by Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, the project represents one of the largest economic development investments in the county’s history.
Expected Economic Impact
Once operational, Sphere National Harbor is projected to support nearly 8,000 full- and part-time jobs, combining direct employment at the venue with jobs supported through visitor spending, suppliers, and broader economic activity across the county and state.
Project Details Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | Approximately $1.4 billion |
| Venue Capacity | 6,000 seats |
| Projected Jobs Supported | ~8,000 |
| Financing Tool | Tax Increment Financing (TIF) |
| Location | National Harbor waterfront |
County officials have described the project as a transformational win, particularly given its potential to generate substantial new tax revenue and long-term economic activity along the Potomac River waterfront.
Why Prince George’s County Continues to Grow
Several factors help explain the county’s ongoing growth and investment:
- Proximity to Washington, D.C., offering easy access to the nation’s capital and its job market
- A strong, historically significant Black community, contributing to the county’s cultural identity and civic life
- A booming tourism sector, anchored by National Harbor and MGM National Harbor
- Major new investment, including the upcoming Sphere National Harbor venue
- Solid regional transportation access, connecting residents to major airports and rail service
FAQs About Prince George’s County
1. What is the population of Prince George’s County? As of 2026, the population is estimated between approximately 976,000 and 981,000 residents, making it Maryland’s second-most populous county.
2. What is the county seat of Prince George’s County? The county seat is Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
3. What is Prince George’s County known for? It’s known for National Harbor, a major waterfront entertainment and shopping destination, along with MGM National Harbor and its close proximity to Washington, D.C.
4. What is Sphere National Harbor? It’s a planned smaller-scale version of the immersive Sphere entertainment venue, set to open at National Harbor, expected to support nearly 8,000 jobs once operational.
5. Is Prince George’s County a diverse community? Yes, it’s one of the wealthiest and most populous majority-Black counties in the United States, with approximately 58.8% of residents identifying as Black or African American and a substantial Hispanic population as well.
Conclusion
Prince George’s County continues to stand out as one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving counties in the Washington, D.C. region, blending a historically significant community, a booming tourism economy, and major new investment like the upcoming Sphere National Harbor venue. With steady population growth and strong regional connectivity, the county remains firmly positioned for continued development.
Whether you’re drawn by its waterfront attractions, its economic opportunities, or its rich community history, Prince George’s County offers a compelling look at one of Maryland’s most influential and closely watched regions.
