South Laurel, MD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
29,272
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,933/yr
-2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,630
1.6% year-over-year change

South Laurel population

How many people live in South Laurel

South Laurel is home to 29,272 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of South Laurel locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
29,272
5.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
14,374
Female
50.9%
14,898
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,374 49.1% 9.7%
Female 14,898 50.9% 1.8%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South Laurel is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.9% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.3% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.9%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
30.3%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
11.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,701 22.9% 18.8%
15 to 24 2,822 9.6% -4.0%
25 to 44 8,866 30.3% 0.1%
45 to 64 7,440 25.4% 4.3%
Over 65 3,443 11.8% 8.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South Laurel, 67.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 17.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 14.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 12.3% of locals are Caucasian, 59.7% are African American and 6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
67.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
17.3%
Non-citizens
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,873 67.9% 9.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,069 17.3% 4.4%
Non-citizens 4,330 14.8% -8.3%
Racial breakdown
White
12.3%
Black or African American
59.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9%
Other
12.5%
Value Percent
White 3,599 12.3%
Black or African American 17,469 59.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 151 0.5%
Asian 1,766 6%
Two or more races 2,635 9%
Other 3,652 12.5%

Households in South Laurel

A peek inside South Laurel households

South Laurel has 11,127 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.7% are families, while the remaining 37.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,127
1.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,146
Family households
6,981
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,146 37.3% -0.1%
Family households 6,981 62.7% 2.9%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South Laurel

The housing landscape of South Laurel

South Laurel's housing consists of 11,630 units, with 29.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 15.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,630
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,406 29.3%
1 unit, attached 1,791 15.4%
2 units 58 0.5%
3 or 4 units 233 2%
5 to 9 units 1,925 16.6%
10 to 19 units 3,314 28.5%
20 to 49 units 113 1%
50 or more units 760 6.5%
Mobile home 30 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
158
119.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Laurel

In South Laurel, the median construction year is 1977. About 3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 350 3% 2.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 232 2% 0.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 942 8.1% 25.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,000 17.2% -10.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,286 28.2% 11.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,524 13.1% -20.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,562 13.4% 16.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 800 6.9% -9.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 776 6.7% 9.0%
Built in 2020 or later 158 1.4% 119.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South Laurel occupancy rates

Out of the 11,127 occupied housing units in South Laurel, 40.8% are owner-occupied, while 59.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,127
1.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,593
Owner occupied
4,534
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,593 59.2% 0.6%
Owner occupied 4,534 40.8% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
4.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South Laurel housing costs

Housing costs in South Laurel come to a median of $1,927 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,830.

Median housing costs per month
$1,927/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South Laurel
$1,830/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South Laurel

South Laurel education at a glance

About 31.6% of the population in South Laurel went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 881 4.1% 7.3%
High school diploma 6,785 31.6% 3.6%
College diploma 4,085 19% 2.9%
Associate degree 1,551 7.2% -17.1%
Bachelor's degree 4,811 22.4% 0.5%
Graduate degree 3,390 15.8% 3.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South Laurel

How much people earn in South Laurel

The average annual household income in South Laurel was $112,368 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,933, reflecting a -2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Laurel
$112,368/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Laurel
$88,933/year
-2.0% year-over-year change

South Laurel income by age

In South Laurel, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,807. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $110,180 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,708, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $86,595 in earnings. Overall, 88.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,708 -5.2%
25 - 44 $82,807 -9.0%
45 - 64 $110,180 2.4%
Over 65 $86,595 12.6%
Above poverty level
25,167
Below poverty level
3,343
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,167 88.3% 6.3%
Below poverty level 3,343 11.7% 5.2%

Average renter income in South Laurel

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in South Laurel, their median household income was $59,977 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$59,977
Rent-to-income ratio
36.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in South Laurel

Workforce and job types in South Laurel

The job market in South Laurel is powered by 15,400 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 60.6% are employed by private companies, and 21.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,400
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
12,466
Blue collar
2,934
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,466 81% 1.9%
Blue collar 2,934 19% 5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
60.6%
Governmental workers
21.5%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,026 6.7% 6.1%
Private companies 9,340 60.6% -1.4%
Governmental workers 3,306 21.5% 7.0%
Not for profit companies 1,728 11.2% 16.4%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Laurel stands at 6.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in South Laurel

How people get around in South Laurel

In South Laurel, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
0.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 11,537 76.2% 0.8%
Taxicab 356 2.4% -7.8%
Bus or trolleybus 352 2.3% -13.9%
Subway or elevated 376 2.5% N/A
Railroad 183 1.2% 3.4%
Bicycle 4 0% -50.0%
Walk 96 0.6% -21.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about South Laurel demographics 

What is the total population of South Laurel?

South Laurel has a total population of 29,272 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +5.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Laurel?

The gender ratio in South Laurel is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (14,374 residents)
  • 50.9% females (14,898 residents)

What is the median age in South Laurel?

The median age in South Laurel is 36.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Laurel?

The age distribution in South Laurel is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.9% (6,701 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (2,822 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.3% (8,866 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (7,440 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.8% (3,443 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Laurel?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Laurel is as follows:
  • White: 12.3% (3,599 residents)
  • Black or African American: 59.7% (17,469 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (151 residents)
  • Asian: 6% (1,766 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (2,635 residents)
  • Other: 12.5% (3,652 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Laurel are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 67.9% of the population in South Laurel.

How many housing units are there in South Laurel?

There are 11,630 housing units in South Laurel, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Laurel and what is the average household size?

South Laurel has a total of 11,127 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Laurel?

South Laurel has a median household income of $88,933, representing a -2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Laurel?

The employment rate is 93.2% in South Laurel, with a workforce of 15,400 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81% (12,466 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19% (2,934 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (1,026 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.6% (9,340 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.5% (3,306 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (1,728 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025