Living In North Laurel, Maryland
North Laurel, Maryland, is a vibrant and growing community located in Howard County, offering a convenient suburban lifestyle with easy access to nearby cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C.. Situated just south of Laurel, this area is known for its beautiful residential neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to a wide range of shopping and dining options.
North Laurel is a great place to settle down, whether you’re considering moving to North Laurel, Maryland, for its suburban charm or its proximity to major highways like I-95.
With a strong sense of community and a blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, living in North Laurel offers a mix of convenience and relaxation. North Laurel’s location gives residents quick access to parks, trails, and cultural experiences while being close enough to the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Cost Of Living In North Laurel, Maryland
The cost of living in North Laurel is relatively moderate compared to other parts of Howard County and Maryland. The area’s cost of living index is slightly higher than the national average, but it’s lower than other more affluent areas in the state. The average cost of buying a home in North Laurel is around $475,000, which is on par with Howard County’s median home price. Rent prices in the area typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 per month, depending on the size and location of the property.
Utility costs such as water, electricity, and internet are comparable to the rest of the state, with an average electricity bill around $130 per month and internet service costing about $70 per month. The average household income in North Laurel hovers around $110,000 per year, making it an affordable option for those looking to balance a higher salary with relatively reasonable housing costs compared to nearby cities.
Top Things To Do In North Laurel, Maryland
Living in North Laurel offers a variety of things to do, from entertainment and shopping to local attractions. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoors or exploring nearby historic sites, there’s always something to keep you entertained. Here are some of the top-rated activities according to TripAdvisor reviews.
Montpelier Mansion and Historic Site Just a short drive from North Laurel, Montpelier Mansion is a beautiful historic site where visitors can learn about 18th-century life in Maryland. This Georgian mansion is set on a large estate with gardens and walking paths. Reviewers rave about the mansion’s well-preserved rooms and knowledgeable tour guides, with one visitor saying, “It feels like stepping back in time, with every room telling a different part of the story.”
Laurel Park Horse racing fans will love visiting Laurel Park, one of the most famous racetracks in the region. In addition to watching live races, the park offers dining and entertainment options. A visitor noted, “It’s a fun way to spend the day, even if you’re not a gambler – the atmosphere is electric.”
Clue IQ: An Escape Room Experience For something a little different, check out Clue IQ, a nearby escape room in Frederick, MD. It’s a favorite among locals for its interactive puzzles and challenging rooms. One enthusiastic review said, “It’s perfect for groups or a fun date night – we were on the edge of our seats the entire time!”
Top Parks In North Laurel, Maryland
For those who love spending time outdoors, North Laurel has several parks that provide excellent recreation and relaxation options. From peaceful walking trails to sports facilities, the area’s parks are a wonderful escape from city life.
Savage Park A short drive from North Laurel, Savage Park is a favorite for its beautiful trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. The park offers a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to tennis and disc golf. A visitor wrote, “I love this park – it’s well-kept, never overcrowded, and there’s something for everyone.”
Rockburn Branch Park Located just a bit north of North Laurel, Rockburn Branch Park is known for its extensive hiking and biking trails. The park also features playgrounds, athletic fields, and even a disc golf course. “A perfect place for a family outing or a peaceful walk through the woods,” noted one reviewer.
Centennial Park Though a bit farther from North Laurel, Centennial Park is well worth the visit. This park surrounds a large lake, offering fishing, boating, and scenic walking paths. “It’s one of the most peaceful spots in the area,” one visitor remarked, “perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the water.”
Top Restaurants In North Laurel, Maryland
There are plenty of fantastic dining options in and around North Laurel. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a fine dining experience, there is something for every taste.
Ranazul Located in nearby Fulton, Ranazul is a tapas-style restaurant known for its modern and innovative menu. Visitors love the variety of small plates and the stylish atmosphere. One reviewer said, “The food is always fresh and full of flavor – a must-try for foodies.”
Kloby’s Smokehouse For a more casual dining experience, check out Kloby’s Smokehouse. This local favorite offers delicious barbecue dishes, including ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. A reviewer mentioned, “The smoked meats here are out of this world – you can’t leave without trying the brisket!”
Facci Wood Fired Pizza Facci Wood Fired Pizza offers authentic Italian dishes, specializing in pizzas made in a wood-fired oven. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food consistently receives great reviews. A visitor said, “The pizza crust is perfectly crispy, and the toppings are always fresh.”
North Laurel, Maryland’s Distance To Other Major Cities
- Washington, D.C.
- Distance: 25 miles
- Time: Approximately 40 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Smithsonian Museums, National Mall, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), and renowned hospitals like MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.
- Baltimore, MD
- Distance: 22 miles
- Time: Approximately 35 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).
- Annapolis, MD
- Distance: 27 miles
- Time: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: United States Naval Academy, Maryland State House, and Chesapeake Bay.
Top Rated Schools In North Laurel, Maryland
North Laurel offers a variety of excellent schools, which is a key consideration when buying a home in North Laurel. Here are some of the top-rated options:
Top High Schools In North Laurel
Top Middle Schools In North Laurel
Top Elementary Schools In North Laurel
Top Employers In North Laurel, Maryland
North Laurel and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of employment opportunities, with top employers in industries like healthcare, education, and technology.
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Located nearby in Laurel, the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is one of the region’s largest employers, offering a range of positions in engineering, research, and technology. Salaries at this employer typically range from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on the role.
Howard County Public School System Another major employer in the region is the Howard County Public School System, which employs teachers, administrative staff, and support personnel. Salaries for teachers average around $65,000, while administrative positions can earn significantly more.
MedStar Health With several facilities located near North Laurel, MedStar Health provides jobs in healthcare, ranging from nursing to administrative positions. Salaries for medical professionals can vary, with nurses earning around $75,000 annually.
Top Neighborhoods In North Laurel, Maryland
Finding the right neighborhood is key when moving to North Laurel, Maryland. Here are some of the most popular areas to consider.
Emerson Emerson is a large, planned community featuring modern homes, townhouses, and luxury apartments. It boasts amenities like pools, parks, and walking trails, making it a popular choice for those seeking convenience and community living.
Maple Lawn One of the more upscale neighborhoods, Maple Lawn is known for its luxury homes and proximity to shopping and dining. This area is highly sought after, with homes averaging $700,000.
Kings Contrivance Although slightly outside North Laurel, Kings Contrivance offers a mix of affordable and mid-range homes with quick access to major roads and highways. It’s known for its well-maintained streets and community vibe.
FAQ About Living In North Laurel, Maryland
Q: Where is the nicest place to live in North Laurel, Maryland?
A: Some of the nicest places to live in North Laurel include Emerson and Maple Lawn, both known for their modern homes and convenient amenities.
Q: Is North Laurel, Maryland an expensive place to live?
A: The cost of living in North Laurel is moderate compared to the rest of Howard County, with home prices averaging around $475,000.
Q: Is the population growing in North Laurel, Maryland?
A: Yes, the population in North Laurel has been steadily growing due to its proximity to major cities and quality of life.
Q: What is a good salary to live comfortably in North Laurel, Maryland?
A: A good salary to live comfortably in North Laurel is around $90,000 to $110,000, given the average home prices and cost of living.
Q: Is North Laurel, Maryland a good place to retire?
A: Yes, North Laurel is a good place to retire due to its peaceful neighborhoods, access to healthcare, and proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C..
