Laurel Bay, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,882
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,345/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,103
-4.1% year-over-year change

Laurel Bay population

How many people live in Laurel Bay

Laurel Bay is home to 5,882 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Laurel Bay locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
5,882
4.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
2,918
Female
50.4%
2,964
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,918 49.6% 8.2%
Female 2,964 50.4% 1.2%
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 Laurel Bay is 23, with the population distributed as follows: about 34.3% are children under 15, then 24.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.3% of the population, while another 7.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 4.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
23
Age breakdown
Under 15
34.3%
15 to 24
24.8%
25 to 44
28.3%
45 to 64
7.9%
Over 65
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,016 34.3% 12.8%
15 to 24 1,461 24.8% 2.7%
25 to 44 1,667 28.3% 12.1%
45 to 64 467 7.9% -32.6%
Over 65 271 4.6% 14.8%
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 Laurel Bay, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 48.2% of locals are Caucasian, 38.4% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,770 98.1% 7.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 112 1.9% -44.8%
Racial breakdown
White
48.2%
Black or African American
38.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.2%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 2,836 48.2%
Black or African American 2,259 38.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6 0.1%
Asian 18 0.3%
Two or more races 541 9.2%
Other 222 3.8%

Households in Laurel Bay

A peek inside Laurel Bay households

Laurel Bay has 1,947 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 85.3% are families, while the remaining 14.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,947
-3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
287
Family households
1,660
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 287 14.7% 5.9%
Family households 1,660 85.3% -5.4%
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 Laurel Bay

The housing landscape of Laurel Bay

Laurel Bay's housing consists of 2,103 units, with 68.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9% 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 19.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,103
-4.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,432 68.1%
1 unit, attached 190 9%
3 or 4 units 33 1.6%
5 to 9 units 31 1.5%
Mobile home 417 19.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Laurel Bay

In Laurel Bay, the median construction year is 1991. About 0.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9 0.4% -40.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 55 2.6% N/A
Built between 1950 and 1959 411 19.5% 52.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 34 1.6% -67.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 259 12.3% 19.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 227 10.8% -36.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 722 34.3% -19.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 354 16.8% 15.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 32 1.5% -5.9%
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.

Laurel Bay occupancy rates

Out of the 1,947 occupied housing units in Laurel Bay, 22.5% are owner-occupied, while 77.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,947
-3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,509
Owner occupied
438
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,509 77.5% -1.6%
Owner occupied 438 22.5% -10.8%
Unoccupied housing units
7.4%
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.

Laurel Bay housing costs

Housing costs in Laurel Bay come to a median of $1,397 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,454.

Median housing costs per month
$1,397/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 Laurel Bay
$1,454/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 Laurel Bay

Laurel Bay education at a glance

About 46.9% of the population in Laurel Bay went to high school, while 34.2% pursued college studies. Another 2.5% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 79 2.1% 54.9%
High school diploma 1,762 46.9% 9.6%
College diploma 1,282 34.2% -5.1%
Associate degree 94 2.5% -46.3%
Bachelor's degree 457 12.2% 9.1%
Graduate degree 80 2.1% -42.9%
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 Laurel Bay

How much people earn in Laurel Bay

The average annual household income in Laurel Bay was $65,679 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,345, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Laurel Bay
$65,679/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Laurel Bay
$54,345/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Laurel Bay income by age

In Laurel Bay, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $49,292. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,304 overall. Overall, 82.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,054 47.5%
25 - 44 $49,292 6.7%
45 - 64 $90,304 -12.2%
Above poverty level
4,753
Below poverty level
1,027
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,753 82.2% 5.2%
Below poverty level 1,027 17.8% 1.8%

Average renter income in Laurel Bay

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Laurel Bay, their median household income was $49,677 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,677
Rent-to-income ratio
35.1%
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 Laurel Bay

Workforce and job types in Laurel Bay

The job market in Laurel Bay is powered by 1,593 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, 7.7% run their own businesses, 77% are employed by private companies, and 9.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,593
-1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
1,290
Blue collar
303
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,290 81% -6.4%
Blue collar 303 19% 26.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
77%
Governmental workers
9.2%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 122 7.7% 74.3%
Private companies 1,227 77% 8.1%
Governmental workers 146 9.2% -53.0%
Not for profit companies 98 6.2% -3.0%
Unemployment rate
4.5%

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Laurel Bay stands at 4.5%, 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 Laurel Bay

How people get around in Laurel Bay

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,315 97.2% -1.9%
Bicycle 9 0.4% -40.0%
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 Laurel Bay demographics 

What is the total population of Laurel Bay?

Laurel Bay has a total population of 5,882 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 +4.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Laurel Bay?

The gender ratio in Laurel Bay is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (2,918 residents)
  • 50.4% females (2,964 residents)

What is the median age in Laurel Bay?

The median age in Laurel Bay is 23.

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

The age distribution in Laurel Bay is as follows:
  • Under 15: 34.3% (2,016 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 24.8% (1,461 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.3% (1,667 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 7.9% (467 residents)
  • Over 65: 4.6% (271 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Laurel Bay?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Laurel Bay is as follows:
  • White: 48.2% (2,836 residents)
  • Black or African American: 38.4% (2,259 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (6 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (18 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.2% (541 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (222 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Laurel Bay.

How many housing units are there in Laurel Bay?

There are 2,103 housing units in Laurel Bay, reflecting a -4.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Laurel Bay has a total of 1,947 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Laurel Bay?

Laurel Bay has a median household income of $54,345, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.5% in Laurel Bay, with a workforce of 1,593 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81% (1,290 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19% (303 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (122 residents)
  • Private companies: 77% (1,227 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.2% (146 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (98 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