Laurel, VA
Population 18,180 · Virginia
About Laurel, VA
Laurel is a mid-sized city located in Virginia with a population of 18,180 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $69,932 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Laurel features a median home value of $272,300, which is 11% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Laurel in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,497, 29% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,600 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (3,643 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (3,511 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Laurel shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Laurel have an average one-way commute time of 20.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.4% of Laurel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 2.4% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Black or African American, and 8.0% Asian residents, with 19.6% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Laurel With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Laurel
What is the population of Laurel, VA?
The population of Laurel, VA is 18,180 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Virginia.
What is the median household income in Laurel?
The median household income in Laurel, VA is $69,932 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Laurel?
The median home value in Laurel, VA is $272,300, which is 11% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Laurel?
The median monthly rent in Laurel, VA is $1,497, which is 29% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Laurel?
The unemployment rate in Laurel, VA is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Laurel, VA a good place to live?
Laurel offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 18,180 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Laurel, VA?
27.4% of residents in Laurel aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Laurel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Laurel, VA: median home value is $272,300 (11% above national), median rent is $1,497/month, and median household income is $69,932. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Laurel?
The poverty rate in Laurel, VA is 7.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Laurel, VA?
Laurel's population is 2.4% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.5% Black or African American, 8.0% Asian, and 30.5% two or more races. 19.6% of residents are foreign-born.