Living in Laurel, Mississippi presents a blend of positives and negatives worth considering. With a livability score of 68/100 and an average commute time of just 19 minutes, you'll enjoy a convenient lifestyle. The emphasis on health and safety, diverse amenities, small-town charm, and a strong sense of community make Laurel a welcoming place. However, concerns about road conditions, certain crime rates, and limited job opportunities should be weighed. Discover more about Laurel's unique city culture, housing affordability, and support system to gain a thorough view of what this Mississippi gem has to offer.
Takeaways
- Affordable housing with a median home value of $84,334 and average rent of $423
- Strong community support system enhancing well-being and safety
- Access to amenities and attractions like shopping centers and museums
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors impacting employment prospects
- Concerns about road conditions and high crime rates in specific areas
Livability Score and Quality of Life
Curious about the livability score and quality of life in Laurel, Mississippi? With a livability score of 68/100, Laurel offers a decent quality of life for its residents. The average commute time of just 19 minutes ensures convenient travel, giving you more time to enjoy the city's amenities. Carpooling is popular, with 8.5% of workers sharing rides, not only reducing traffic congestion but also fostering a sense of community among residents.
When it comes to health and safety, factors like air quality and the availability of essential health facilities play an important role. Laurel aims to provide its residents with clean air and easy access to healthcare services to guarantee their well-being.
The diverse range of amenities in Laurel adds to the overall livability of the city, offering something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you're considering making Laurel your home, rest assured that the city is focused on providing a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.
Safety and Public Transport
Concerning safety and public transport in Laurel, Mississippi, the town has a grade of C with respect to crime and safety. While the crime rate is a concern, workers in Laurel often rely on carpooling, with 8.5% of the population sharing rides to work. Walking to work is less common, constituting only 0.5% of workers. The limited public transportation access in Laurel means that many residents depend on personal vehicles or carpooling to commute. The average one-way commute time of 19 minutes indicates that despite the limited access to public transport, getting around the town is relatively efficient.
With a grade of C for safety, it's essential to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions while living in Laurel. However, the active community of carpoolers shows how residents come together to address transportation challenges. By carpooling and efficiently managing commute times, workers in Laurel navigate the town's limited public transport options while contributing positively to the environment through reduced carbon emissions.
Proximity to Work and Schools
Living in Laurel, Mississippi offers convenient access to work and schools due to its average one-way commute time of 19 minutes. This allows for easy travel to your workplace or your children's schools, making daily routines smoother. While public transportation options are limited in Laurel, carpooling is a popular choice among 8.5% of the workforce, providing shared commuting opportunities and reducing traffic congestion. Additionally, 0.5% of residents prefer walking, embracing the benefits of a leisurely stroll to their destinations. For those looking for flexibility, 1.3% of workers in Laurel opt to work from home, eliminating the need for commuting altogether. The table below summarizes the various commuting methods used in Laurel:
| Commuting Method | Percentage of Workers |
|---|---|
| Carpooling | 8.5% |
| Walking | 0.5% |
| Work from Home | 1.3% |
Amenities and Community Life
Accessing a wide array of shopping centers and amenities in Laurel, MS enhances the town's appeal for both residents and visitors alike. The small-town charm of Laurel, with its low busyness levels and delicious southern home cooking, creates a welcoming environment for all. The sense of community in Laurel is palpable, with residents actively engaging in various events and activities that foster togetherness.
Residents in Laurel appreciate the strong sense of community and engagement that permeates the town.
Laurel's shopping centers offer a diverse range of options for both everyday needs and leisure activities.
The volunteer rate in Laurel is an impressive 30%, showcasing the community's dedication to helping one another.
Visitors to Laurel can experience the charm of the town, indulge in southern home cooking, and explore attractions like the 'Home Town' TV show and the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art.
Housing Affordability and Cost of Living
With a median home value of $84,334 and an average rent of $423 for a 1-bedroom apartment, Laurel, MS offers affordable housing options for its residents. The cost of living in Laurel is relatively low, with an average annual salary of $24,511. This makes it easier for individuals with low income to find suitable accommodation within their budget.
Additionally, the property tax rate in Laurel is 1.03%, providing some relief on homeowners' expenses. Utilities cost around $100, adding to the overall cost of living considerations but remaining reasonable compared to other areas. These factors combined make Laurel a budget-friendly place to live, especially for those looking to manage their expenses efficiently.
Whether you choose to rent or buy, Laurel's housing affordability and cost of living index create a welcoming environment for individuals seeking a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Population Demographics and Growth
The shifting population dynamics in Laurel, Mississippi, reveal a remarkable trend of demographic changes over the years. Understanding the population demographics and growth in Laurel is essential for evaluating the town's development.
Here are some key points to ponder:
- Laurel, Mississippi, has a population of 17,241 residents, according to the latest data.
- The town experienced a decline of 9,000 people from 1960 to 2010, signaling a significant shift in population trends.
- Jones County, where Laurel is situated, witnessed population growth during the same period, impacting the overall demographic landscape.
- Census figures provide insights into the changes in Laurel's population dynamics, highlighting the town's evolution over time.
Analyzing these population statistics can offer valuable insights into how Laurel has changed and grown, providing a glimpse into the town's past and setting the stage for future development and planning.
Commute Times and Transportation Challenges
Traversing through Laurel, Mississippi, poses unique challenges when it comes to commute times and transportation. The average one-way commute time of 19 minutes in Laurel is slightly longer than the national average, indicating that residents spend a bit more time getting to work. Public transportation options are limited, making it tough for those who rely on buses or trains to commute. However, efforts like carpooling, which 8.5% of workers partake in, help reduce traffic and promote shared rides.
Walking to work isn't a common practice in Laurel, with only 0.5% of workers choosing this option, showcasing the city's reliance on personal vehicles. The lack of bicycle commuters (0.0%) and a small percentage of telecommuters (1.3%) suggest that alternative transportation options are limited in Laurel. These factors contribute to the traffic challenges faced by residents. Despite these limitations, exploring carpooling or telecommuting can be beneficial for those looking to minimize commute times and transportation challenges in Laurel.
Overall Appeal and City Dynamics
Discover the vibrant community and distinctive charm of Laurel, Mississippi, to unveil its overall appeal and city dynamics. Nestled in Laurel, you'll find a place where southern hospitality flourishes, creating a sense of belonging. The city's allure shines through its close-knit community, where individuals support each other like kin. While residing in Laurel, you'll come across a good mix of charming shopping boutiques and diverse dining options, providing a taste of southern home cooking that soothes the spirit.
Uncover the city dynamics of Laurel with these key points:
- Charm: Experience the authentic charm of Laurel that emanates through its streets and welcoming faces.
- Support System: Enjoy the robust support system among friends, family, and neighbors, fostering a sense of community and safety.
- City Culture: Immerse yourself in the unique city culture that merges tradition with modernity, offering a rich array of experiences.
- Concerns: Acknowledge the existing concerns about road conditions, crime rates, poverty, and limited job opportunities, aspects to keep in mind while living in Laurel.
Conclusion
Overall, living in Laurel, Mississippi has its perks and drawbacks. The city offers a decent quality of life, affordable housing, and a close-knit community.
However, safety concerns, limited public transportation, and long commute times may pose challenges.
It's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before deciding if Laurel is the right place for you to call home.