Statistic Laurel Maryland National
Population 26,740 6,178,543 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 5,625 636 91
Median age 36.0 38.3 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.9:1 0.9:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 45% 54% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 52% 44% 43%
Speak English 66% 82% 79%
Speak Spanish 17% 7% 13%
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Local Insights Report

Overview of Laurel Demographics

Laurel demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Laurel population is 26,740 and has a population density of 5,625 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 36, 45% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 52% have kids under the age of 18. In Laurel, 11% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 28% of households report a median income above $150,000.

Laurel Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The 5 largest ethnic groups in Laurel are 23.5% White, 50.7% Black or African American, 8.3% Asian, 0.6% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 18.8% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 65.7% of households reported speaking English only, while 16.9% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 28.9% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Laurel racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.

Laurel Population Density

The Laurel population density comes in at 5,625 people per square mile, which makes it one of the most densely populated areas in the country, far surpassing the national average of 91. Areas characterized by high population density often boast an abundance of amenities and services within close proximity, providing residents with convenient access to healthcare, education, cultural attractions, dining establishments, retail outlets and transportation options. This accessibility could potentially enhance residents' overall quality of life and well-being.

Is Laurel Family Friendly?

A family-friendly city like Laurel can prioritize the well-being and needs of families, creating an environment where children thrive, parents feel supported and families can enjoy a high quality of life together. Family-friendly cities are also known to foster a strong sense of community, with neighbors supporting and looking out for one another. These areas could also boast excellent educational opportunities, including high-quality schools, libraries and extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is essential for children's development and future success. By prioritizing the well-being of its residents, such cities become vibrant and resilient communities where families can truly flourish. In Laurel, 52% of families have kids under the age of 18 and 45% of residents over 15 years old are married. These demographics put this area in a position to reap the benefits of a family-friendly area.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: Utilizing Laurel demographic statistics and data, urban planners can craft and develop areas that cater to local residents, encompassing housing, transportation and public services, all while emphasizing sustainability and enriching quality of life. Demographic transitions can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural environments. As neighborhoods draw in new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longtime inhabitants and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. Comprehensive insights into population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels are instrumental in guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Harnessing Laurel demographic stats for planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.

Healthcare Planning: Analyzing the demographic data in Laurel has the potential to inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources more effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities by understanding demographic trends. Leveraging demographic statistics can enable healthcare providers and policymakers to strive for equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet diverse population needs.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Laurel demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Laurel can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Laurel is 784% higher than Maryland
  • The median age in Laurel is 6% lower than Maryland
  • In Laurel 23.53% of the population is White
  • In Laurel 50.73% of the population is Black
  • In Laurel 8.28% of the population is Asian

Compare Laurel, MD Demographics

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      Laurel racial demographics

      Race Laurel Maryland National
      White 23.53% 57.19% 73.35%
      Black 50.73% 29.63% 12.63%
      Asian 8.28% 6.08% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.58% 0.27% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.00% 0.05% 0.18%
      Mixed race 6.59% 3.12% 3.06%
      Other race 10.28% 3.67% 4.75%
      In Laurel, 18.8% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Laurel age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Laurel, MD demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.