| Statistic | Laurel | Florida | National |
| Population | 12,153 | 21,477,737 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,338 | 410 | 91 |
| Median age | 61.0 | 41.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 69% | 54% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 14% | 38% | 43% |
| Speak English | 89% | 72% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 1% | 21% | 13% |
The demographics of Laurel offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 12,153, Laurel exhibits a population density of 1,338 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 61, with 69% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 14% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Laurel, 17% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 20% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Laurel is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Laurel, the racial breakdown comprises 87.6% White, 5.6% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, 0.2% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 2.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 89.4% of households reported speaking English only, while 1.1% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 11.9% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Areas like Laurel that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Laurel population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,338 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
A city with fewer children like Laurel can offer several benefits, catering to a demographic where families with fewer or no children may find an ideal environment. The advantages could include a quiet environment, increased focus on adult-oriented amenities, reduced traffic and increased affordability. Perhaps the biggest benefit could be a greater availability of housing options that cater to adult residents or smaller households. This could include more condominiums, apartments, or single-family homes designed for couples or individuals without children, providing a wider range of choices for prospective homebuyers or renters. Areas with fewer kids could also be an indication that this area could be a suitable area for retirees or seniors. In Laurel, only 14% of people have kids under the age of 18, which is far less than the national average. Another 69% of residents over 15 years old are married. This bodes well for taking advantage of all the benefits of an area where less kids are present.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Laurel demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Laurel demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
Urban Development: By leveraging demographic data in Laurel, urban planners can tailor areas to meet the needs of any resident across housing, transportation and public services, all while fostering sustainability and elevating quality of life. Demographic changes can fuel gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract newcomers with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing established residents and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. A nuanced understanding of population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is pivotal for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Utilizing the demographic data in planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks and promote inclusive communities.
Social Cohesion: The reporting and analysis of demographics are essential for fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and valuing differences in Laurel demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while tackling social disparities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics showcase the varied makeup of a population and play a vital role in nurturing inclusive and hospitable communities. Embracing diversity bolsters social cohesion, enhances cultural comprehension and enriches society by honoring the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
| Race | Laurel | Florida | National |
| White | 87.55% | 75.90% | 73.35% |
| Black | 5.60% | 16.14% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 1.60% | 2.61% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.16% | 0.27% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 3.41% | 2.48% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 1.68% | 2.54% | 4.75% |
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