| Statistic | Laurel | Delaware | National |
| Population | 4,311 | 973,764 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,558 | 504 | 91 |
| Median age | 23.7 | 39.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 39% | 54% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 62% | 39% | 43% |
| Speak English | 81% | 87% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 13% | 7% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Laurel is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Laurel population is 4,311, with a population density of 1,558 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 23.7, and 39% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 62% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Laurel, 37% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 7% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
The Laurel racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Laurel is 44.4% White, 51.4% Black or African American, 0% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 14.9% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 81.2% reported speaking English only, while 13.1% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 14.1% of residents were considered foreign born.
Communities such as Laurel, with population densities higher than the average, play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability by decreasing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Their compact urban development encourages the adoption of energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling, and public transportation, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, densely populated areas tend to cultivate vibrant social and cultural scenes, fueled by a diverse population that contributes to a myriad of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity sparks creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. Laurel has a population density of 1,558, surpassing the national average of 91 people per square mile, as it stands poised to reap the benefits of dense urban living.
A family-friendly city like Laurel prioritizes the well-being and requirements of families, creating an atmosphere conducive to the flourishing of children, the support of parents and the collective enjoyment of a superior quality of life. These cities are characterized by their fostering of strong community bonds, where neighbors actively support and watch out for one another. Additionally, they often offer outstanding educational opportunities, including top-tier schools, well-stocked libraries and diverse extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is indispensable for the holistic development and future achievements of children. By giving precedence to the welfare of its inhabitants, such cities transform into vibrant and resilient communities where families can truly thrive. In Laurel, 62% of families have children under the age of 18, and 39% of residents aged over 15 are married. These demographic characteristics position this area to fully reap the benefits of being a family-friendly area.
Education Allocation: Laurel demographic data can help guide education planning by identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs, helping schools and policymakers allocate resources and develop effective educational programs. It can be an essential tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, or students with disabilities. By disaggregating data by demographic factors, education planners can identify areas of inequity and develop targeted interventions to improve access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Laurel demographic data is invaluable in education for promoting equity, supporting student success, and fostering inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.
Social Cohesion: Reporting and analyzing demographics can play a crucial role in fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By recognizing and appreciating differences in Laurel demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony, while addressing social disparities and promoting equal opportunities for all individuals. Racial demographics reflect the diversity of a population and contribute to fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing diversity strengthens social cohesion, promotes cultural understanding and enriches the fabric of society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Healthcare Planning: An analysis of Laurel demographics can inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends allows healthcare providers and policymakers to allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers, and policymakers strive to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.
| Race | Laurel | Delaware | National |
| White | 44.40% | 69.22% | 73.35% |
| Black | 51.38% | 21.72% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.02% | 3.68% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.37% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.05% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.11% | 2.76% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 2.09% | 2.19% | 4.75% |
Here are the best places to live in Delaware
See the best places to live in & around Laurel
Check out the 10 safest cities in Delaware
10 best cities to buy a new house in Delaware