Laurel MD

Laurel, Maryland – perfectly perched between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, this charming city blends small-town warmth with big-city convenience. Whether you're exploring its historic Main Street, enjoying the scenic beauty of local parks, or discovering its rich Civil War history, Laurel offers a friendly, relaxed vibe for visitors and residents alike. It's a place where community matters, diversity is celebrated, and there’s always something new to explore just around the corner.

• Population: ~30,000
• Weather: Four-season climate; warm, humid summers and chilly winters with light snowfall.
• Places To Visit: Laurel Park Race Track, Montpelier Mansion, Patuxent Research Refuge, Dinosaur Park, Historic Laurel Main Street.
• Top Activities: Nature hiking, bird watching, exploring local history, community festivals, enjoying parks and local shops.
• Famous Food: Pit beef sandwiches, Maryland crab cakes, mom-and-pop Ethiopian cuisine, and locally loved diners and bakeries.

Laurel, Maryland is a vibrant city nestled between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. It benefits from a strong economy driven by government, healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Thanks to its prime location and diverse industries, many professionals find rewarding career opportunities here. Below are some of the top in-demand jobs in Laurel, MD.

Top 5 Jobs in Laurel, MD

Laurel, Maryland might be a small city, but it’s packed with hidden gems where students can unwind, catch up with friends, and just enjoy life outside the classroom. Whether you're attending nearby University of Maryland, Bowie State, or a local community college, Laurel gives you the perfect mix of nature, food, and fun hangout spots without the DC or Baltimore price tag.

Lake Elkhorn – Just a 15-minute drive from Laurel, this peaceful lakeside escape in Columbia is ideal for unplugging and getting a breath of fresh air. Bring a blanket, your favorite playlist, and maybe a few snacks, and you’ve got yourself a chill afternoon with beautiful water views and walking trails.

Main Street Laurel – Cute shops, local eateries, and historic charm make Main Street the kind of place where you can grab an iced latte, browse vintage stores, or take some Instagram-worthy photos. Stop by Sip at C Street Flats for cozy café vibes and live music on weekend nights.

Laurel Boardwalk – Feeling nostalgic? This mini amusement zone next to the Laurel Park racetrack has arcade games, mini golf, and some seriously good funnel cake. It’s a quirky little throwback that’s perfect for stress-busting on a budget.

Laurel’s Granville Gude Park – Home to Laurel Lake, this spot is great for chilling under the trees, having a picnic, renting a paddle boat, or letting out some energy with a frisbee game. Plus, midweek afternoons here are super quiet, making it a nice place to recharge.

Snow Panda – When a sugar craving hits, this spot near Route 1 delivers with Taiwanese shaved ice, boba, and sweet treats you can customize to your heart’s content. Perfect for small group meetups or a solo study break.

Laurel Town Centre – A go-to for dinner and a movie, you’ll find everything from Chipotle to Nando’s. After grabbing a bite, hit the Regal Cinema to catch new releases without the big city crowds. Parking’s free, and it’s super student-friendly.

Patuxent Research Refuge – Just a short drive away, this massive wildlife refuge is perfect for a quiet escape into nature. Whether you're into hiking, bird watching, or just finding peace away from your inbox, it’s a peaceful place to recharge and reflect.

Board and Brew – Located in nearby College Park, this caffeine-fueled board game cafe is all about laughs, lattes, and low-stress fun. Pay a small cover, pick from hundreds of games, and hang out for hours with friends. It’s ideal for rainy afternoons or when you just need something different to do.

Between its local parks, cozy spots to eat, and easy access to nature and entertainment, Laurel is a low-key gem for students looking for balance. Whether you want to laugh, snack, stroll, or kick back, there's always a good spot waiting for you around the corner.

Laurel, Maryland, offers excellent access to higher education, thanks to its central location between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. Whether you’re seeking a public or private college experience, several top-tier options are nearby, providing a variety of programs in health, technology, business, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in or near Laurel, MD

Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) – Located just a short drive from Laurel, PGCC is one of the region’s most popular community colleges. It offers strong associate degree programs in nursing, business, cybersecurity, and STEM fields, along with affordable tuition and robust transfer partnerships.

Bowie State University – Founded in 1865, Bowie State is Maryland’s oldest historically Black public university. It is widely recognized for its innovative programs in computer science, education, business, and communications.

University of Maryland, College Park – Just minutes from Laurel, UMD is the state’s flagship public university and a leading research institution. Students pursue degrees in engineering, public policy, journalism, computer science, and more.

Montgomery College – With campuses in nearby Rockville, Takoma Park/Silver Spring, and Germantown, this respected community college serves thousands of students with a range of transfer and workforce preparation programs.

Coppin State University – A bit farther from Laurel but easily accessible, Coppin State in Baltimore is a public university known for its dedicated focus on teaching, nursing, criminal justice, and the liberal arts.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in or near Laurel, MD

Capitol Technology University – Located right in Laurel, Capitol Tech is a top private STEM-focused institution. It is renowned for programs in cybersecurity, engineering, computer science, and business analytics, attracting students looking for hands-on, high-demand careers.

Washington Adventist University – Situated nearby in Takoma Park, this private Christian university offers respected programs in nursing, business, public health, and music, with a supportive community atmosphere.

Howard University – Located in Washington, D.C., this world-renowned historically Black university is close to Laurel. Howard offers top-ranked schools of medicine, law, business, engineering, and the arts.

Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore-based and within easy reach of Laurel, Johns Hopkins is recognized globally for its research and graduate programs in medicine, public health, engineering, and international studies.

Marymount University – Located a short drive away in Arlington, Virginia, Marymount is known for its programs in health sciences, business, education, and cybersecurity, offering small class sizes and personalized attention.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working professional, or an adult learner considering a return to school, Laurel’s location offers a wealth of options for every educational goal. Dive into these colleges and universities to find the right fit for your dreams and ambitions!

Laurel, Maryland, offers a unique mix of high-quality public and private high schools. Whether you're a parent seeking a strong college prep program or a student looking for supportive teachers and a well-rounded education, Laurel has a lot to offer. Here’s a helpful list of the top public and private high schools in the area to guide your search.

Top Public High Schools in Laurel, MD

• Reservoir High School – Part of the Howard County Public School System, Reservoir High is known for its outstanding academics, inclusive community, and a wide range of AP courses and extracurriculars.
• Hammond High School – Recognized for its commitment to academic success and student support, Hammond is a great choice for students seeking a diverse and inclusive environment.
• Chapelgate Christian Academy – Though technically located in nearby Marriottsville, this school serves many Laurel students and is known for its values-based education and small class sizes.
• Eleanor Roosevelt High School – Located in Greenbelt but widely attended by Laurel residents, Roosevelt is a science and technology magnet school that ranks among the best in Maryland.
• Laurel High School – A part of Prince George’s County Public Schools, Laurel High offers multiple career and college readiness programs and a supportive learning environment.

Top Private High Schools in Laurel, MD

• St. Vincent Pallotti High School – Laurel’s oldest Catholic high school, Pallotti offers a faith-based education with strong academics and programs in arts and athletics.
• Forcey Christian School – Serving grades through high school, this private institution is known for its spiritual foundation, committed teachers, and individualized attention.
• Maywood Education – A small yet innovative private school focusing on personalized learning, critical thinking, and project-based education.
• Al Huda School – This Islamic private school in Laurel emphasizes both academic achievement and spiritual guidance, with strong parental involvement and a tight-knit community.
• Academy of Saint Matthias the Apostle – While technically a K-8 school, many graduates transition directly to top private high schools in the area due to the school’s excellent academic foundation.

Laurel’s high schools reflect its diverse and thriving community. Whether you prefer a large public school with cutting-edge classes or a smaller private school with personalized instruction, there’s a great option waiting to help your child succeed. Explore these top choices — and don’t hesitate to visit, talk to faculty, and see where your family fits best.

Laurel, Maryland might not be home to a major professional sports team of its own, but it sits in a prime spot between two powerhouse sports cities—Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. Thanks to this unique location, residents of Laurel enjoy easy access to some of the best professional sports action in the country. From football and basketball to baseball and hockey, Laurel locals get the best of both worlds.

Football – Baltimore Ravens & Washington Commanders (NFL)

• Baltimore Ravens – Known for their tough defense and passionate fan base, the Ravens have won two Super Bowl titles (in 2000 and 2012). Stars like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Lamar Jackson have all played a huge part in the team's legacy. M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore is less than 40 minutes from Laurel, making it perfect for football fans.
• Washington Commanders – Formerly known as the Redskins, the Commanders have won three Super Bowl championships (1982, 1987, and 1991). While they're rebuilding, the excitement around young talents and the new ownership gives fans hope for a bright future. They play at FedExField, just a short drive from Laurel.

Baseball – Baltimore Orioles & Washington Nationals (MLB)

• Baltimore Orioles – The Orioles have a rich baseball history with three World Series titles (1966, 1970, and 1983). Camden Yards is considered one of the most beautiful ballparks in America and is a must-visit for any baseball lover in the Laurel area.
• Washington Nationals – As the 2019 World Series champions, the Nationals have built a loyal following. Nationals Park in D.C. is just over a half-hour away, and Laurel fans love cheering for stars like Stephen Strasburg and Juan Soto (now a Yankees star).

Basketball – Washington Wizards (NBA)

• Washington Wizards – The Wizards may not have seen championship glory since their 1978 NBA title, but they remain a fun and competitive team. With exciting young players and great matchups at Capital One Arena, they offer plenty of thrills for basketball fans throughout the Laurel area.

Hockey – Washington Capitals (NHL)

• Washington Capitals – The Caps brought home their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018, led by superstar Alex Ovechkin. With a winning culture and loyal fans, the Capitals are one of the most exciting teams to follow if you’re living in or near Laurel.

Soccer – D.C. United & Washington Spirit (MLS & NWSL)

• D.C. United – One of the founding clubs of Major League Soccer, D.C. United has won four MLS Cups (1996, 1997, 1999, and 2004). They play at Audi Field in Washington, attracting loyal fans from all parts of Maryland, including Laurel.
• Washington Spirit – Competing in the National Women’s Soccer League, the Spirit made headlines by winning the 2021 NWSL Championship. The team showcases some of the best women's soccer talent in the country and continues to gain strong support in the region.

Even though Laurel, MD itself doesn’t yet house its own big-league team, its central location between two major sports markets offers sports fans the best of both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Whether you're watching a baseball game under the summer sun or cheering at a playoff football clash, being a fan in Laurel means you're never far from the action!

Laurel, Maryland is a charming city located between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. While it may not be as well-known as its big-city neighbors, this town is full of surprising history, unique attractions, and fun little quirks. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are 10 fun facts about Laurel that might just make you see it in a whole new light:

1. Presidential Stop – Laurel’s train station served as a stop for President Abraham Lincoln on his way to his inauguration in 1861—and later carried his funeral train in 1865.
2. Home of One of Maryland’s First Malls – The Laurel Shopping Center opened in 1956 and was one of the earliest malls in the state. Today, Laurel still offers a unique mix of modern stores and historic centers.
3. A City with a Race Track – Laurel Park is one of the oldest horse racing tracks in the country, dating back to 1911. It's still actively hosting races and events.
4. Between Two Capitals – Laurel sits nearly halfway between Washington, D.C. and Annapolis, making it a prime spot for commuters and adventure-seekers alike.
5. Dinosaur Trail, Anyone? – The Dinosaur Park in Laurel lets you explore real fossil beds where dinosaurs once roamed. It's a hit with kids—and curious adults, too!
6. The First Electric Streetcars – Laurel was part of the early electric streetcar system in Maryland. These streetcars connected locals to towns and cities long before cars took over.
7. A Film Location Secret – Parts of the 1985 cult classic The Stuff were filmed in Laurel. The small-town backdrop fit the eerie storyline perfectly.
8. Lake with a View – Laurel’s popular Granville Gude Park and Lakehouse offers scenic views, paddleboats, picnic areas, and even movie nights during the summer.
9. It Once Had a NASA Lab! – Laurel hosts the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, which helped develop space technology including missions to Pluto and Jupiter.
10. Holidays Done Right – Laurel takes its parades seriously! The annual 4th of July and Main Street Christmas Parade bring the whole community together every year, turning Main Street into a celebration scene straight out of a movie.