Laurel, VA
Population 18,180 · Virginia
About Laurel, VA
Laurel is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 18,180 residents. The median household income is $69,932 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Laurel is 34.9 years.
Housing in Laurel has a median home value of $272,300 and median monthly rent of $1,497. Of the 7,600 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,643 owner-occupied and 3,511 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Laurel is 4.0% and the poverty rate is 7.4%. 27.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Laurel, VA
Compared to national averages, Laurel has a median household income of $69,932 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $272,300, which is 11% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,497 is 29% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Laurel's income is 20% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 17% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Laurel, VA?
Laurel offers a low poverty rate of 7.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($69,932) that falls below the national average. However, Laurel’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Laurel has a population of 18,180 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Laurel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Laurel
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colonial Heights | 18,210 | $76,250 | $231,700 | Compare |
| Franconia | 18,141 | $152,007 | $557,800 | Compare |
| Gainesville | 18,036 | $168,978 | $660,800 | Compare |
| Sudley | 18,420 | $92,101 | $417,100 | Compare |
| Hybla Valley | 17,877 | $72,068 | $523,000 | Compare |
| Franklin Farm | 18,509 | $210,169 | $810,600 | Compare |
| Midlothian | 18,702 | $105,927 | $381,600 | Compare |
| Idylwood | 17,469 | $118,443 | $708,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Laurel
What is the population of Laurel, VA?
The population of Laurel, VA is 18,180 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Laurel?
The median household income in Laurel, VA is $69,932 per year.
What is the median home value in Laurel?
The median home value in Laurel, VA is $272,300.
What is the average rent in Laurel?
The median monthly rent in Laurel, VA is $1,497.
What is the unemployment rate in Laurel?
The unemployment rate in Laurel, VA is 4.0%.