Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Laurel, MS
Thinking of moving to Laurel, MS? With a welcoming population of 17,161, Laurel offers affordable living, with median home prices around $109,000 and average rents at $800. Commute times are short at about 20 minutes, and you’ll enjoy warm Southern weather with 63% sunny days each year. The city features a strong sense of community, convenient healthcare, and educational options, though it’s helpful to be aware of higher-than-average property crime rates. Laurel’s charming homes and low cost of living make it a great choice for those seeking a relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere.
Demographics - Laurel, MS
Demographics - Laurel, MS
Laurel, MS is home to about 17,161 residents with a population density of 1,200 people per square mile. The city has a diverse community, with a majority Black population and a median age of 36.2, offering a balanced mix of families and working adults. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the population, contributing to a welcoming, close-knit environment.
Population:
17,161
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
41.9%
Black:
53.0%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Laurel, MS?
Laurel boasts a low cost of living with a median home value of $109,000 and average rents around $800, making it affordable for both renters and homeowners. Monthly expenses such as utilities and groceries are below national averages, and Mississippi’s state income tax ranges from 3% to 5%. The overall cost of living index is notably lower than the U.S. average, making your dollar stretch further here.
Median House Value:
$109,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,390
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.1
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
45.7
Utilities:
92.6
Transportation:
85.4
Health Care:
93.9
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Laurel, MS a safe place to live?
Residents of Laurel should be aware of higher-than-average property crime, with about 3,900 incidents per 100,000 people, while violent crime rates are moderate at 480 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a property crime is roughly 1 in 26, so it’s wise to take standard safety precautions. Despite these figures, many locals find the community supportive and proactive about neighborhood security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
480
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,900
Crime Index:
4,380
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 209
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 26
Weather
What is the weather like in Laurel, MS year-round?
Laurel enjoys a mild climate with warm, humid summers reaching up to 92°F and mild winters with lows around 38°F. The city receives about 58 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny days 63% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are noticeable but generally comfortable throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
58 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Local households in Laurel typically have a median income of around $34,200, with a family income averaging $44,300. The poverty rate is somewhat higher than the national average at 28.2%, but most residents enjoy short commutes of about 20 minutes and a strong sense of community. Education levels are solid, with over 80% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$36,700
Family Income:
$44,300
Per Capita Income:
$19,700
Income Male:
$38,900
Income Female:
$27,100
Poverty Rate:
28.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
20.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.9%
Bachelors or More:
16.2%
Education
How are the schools in Laurel, MS?
Families in Laurel benefit from a range of educational options, including public schools like Laurel High School and Maddox Elementary, both known for manageable class sizes. Private schooling is also available, and higher education opportunities are close by at Jones College, just eight miles away. These options contribute to a supportive learning environment for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Laurel High School
Street:
1100 W 12th St
Phone:
601-649-4145
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Maddox Elementary School
Street:
612 W 11th St
Phone:
601-649-4143
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Laurel Christian School
Street:
1116 S 16th Ave
Phone:
601-426-6433
Students:
420
Colleges
Name:
Jones College
City:
Ellisville
State:
MS
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Laurel provides access to quality healthcare, anchored by the South Central Regional Medical Center offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 86% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable medical options. Healthcare costs are moderate, helping families manage expenses.
Major Hospitals
Name:
South Central Regional Medical Center
Address:
1220 Jefferson St, Laurel, MS 39440
Phone:
(601) 426-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.5%
Health Care Index:
65.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Laurel, MS?
The Laurel housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $109,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $800. A majority of residents own their homes, and the area has seen a positive home appreciation rate of 7.1% over the past year. Rental vacancy rates are relatively moderate, offering choices for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$109,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services at the local Mississippi Department of Public Safety office on Sunflower Road in Laurel. The DMV provides essential licensing and registration services, and more information is available on the state’s official website. Customer service is accessible by phone for quick assistance.
State:
Mississippi
Department:
Mississippi Department of Public Safety
Address:
320 Sunflower Rd, Laurel, MS 39443
Phone:
(601) 425-3147
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.