Laurel, MS Demographics

Overview of Laurel Demographics

The demographics of Laurel offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 18,403, Laurel exhibits a population density of 1,133 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 38.3, with 51% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 44% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Laurel, 38% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 8% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.

Laurel Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Laurel is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Laurel, the racial breakdown comprises 36.1% White, 61.3% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, 0% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 5.7% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 94.1% of households reported speaking English only, while 5.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 3.9% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

Laurel Population Density

Laurel could serve as a prime example of how areas with higher-than-average population density can champion environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Embracing compact urban development, these densely populated areas promote energy-efficient buildings and encourages walking, cycling and public transit use, fostering sustainable lifestyles and minimizing environmental impact. Moreover, densely populated regions are renowned for their vibrant social and cultural scenes, driven by a diverse population that organizes an array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity ignites creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Laurel population density is 1,133, surpassing the national average of 91 per square miles, positioning itself to capitalize on the advantages of dense urban living.

Why are Demographics Important?

Urban Development: By leveraging demographic data in Laurel, urban planners can tailor areas to meet the needs of any resident across housing, transportation and public services, all while fostering sustainability and elevating quality of life. Demographic changes can fuel gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract newcomers with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing established residents and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. A nuanced understanding of population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is pivotal for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Utilizing the demographic data in planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks and promote inclusive communities.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Laurel demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Laurel can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.

Healthcare Planning: The analysis of Laurel demographics can offer insights into healthcare planning and delivery, identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By understanding demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Through the use of demographic data and statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.