Laurel enjoys a unique position roughly halfway between DC and Baltimore, and its relative seclusion makes it an attractive option for commuters who work in either city but prefer a small-town home environment. The close proximity to Fort Mead also makes Laurel a popular option for Department of Defense employees and military personnel seeking off-base housing.
The cost of living is rather affordable, and apartments tend to rent for much more reasonable rates than closer to the major cities nearby. While almost exclusively residential, Laurel does feature a handful of large shopping centers along its major roadways as well as a quaint Main Street district, the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee in a friendly café before heading off to work.
