2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Bethesda, MD vs Laurel, MD

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Laurel older or younger than people in Bethesda?
- The Median Age in Laurel is 7.4 years younger than in Bethesda.

Are housing costs cheaper in Laurel or Bethesda?
- Laurel housing costs are 61.4% less expensive than Bethesda housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Laurel or Bethesda?
- The average commute for residents of Laurel is 4.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Bethesda.

Things to do in Bethesda?
Bethesda, Maryland is an incredible city located just northwest of Washington D.C. This beautiful city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning Glen Echo Park or the charming Cabin John Regional Park. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Acorn Urban Park, Little Falls Creek Stream Valley, and Capital Crescent Trail. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Bethesda their home.

Things to do in Laurel?
Laurel, Maryland is a vibrant city located in Prince George's County and renowned for its lush parks, diverse culture, and small-town charm. It offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy, from exploring the Patuxent River Greenway Trail to kayaking on Lake Kittamaqundi. Visitors can also explore local attractions such as the Montpelier Mansion & Gardens or shop at nearby malls such as The Mall in Columbia. With easy access to Washington D.C. and other major cities like Annapolis and Baltimore, Laurel makes an ideal destination for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience close to urban amenities.

 Bethesda, MDLaurel, MDUnited States
 Population  Unlock29,438329,725,481
 Median Income$178,370  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,072,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.3  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Bethesda    12 Reviews

Bethesda is awesome if you want to live near DC and in a relatively safe city that has few parking issues. Montgomery county has parking lots in downtown Bethesda and  More

   |    Reply

Amenities are plentiful, but costs continue to rise as do local and state taxes. Overall not a friendly place to  More

   |    Reply

Essentially an upscale suburb of Washington DC. Public transport is easy, there's plenty to do (though with none of the edginess of living closer in DC) and it's minutes  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Bethesda

Reviews for Laurel    8 Reviews

Nice place 1200 a month 1 bedroom apartment but everything is a 10 min drive some old history good schools people get along  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

Laurel as a whole is not a bad place to live. Housing is considerably cheaper than in many parts of the DC/Baltimore area. There are some nice shops and restaurants  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

Laurel as a whole is not a bad place to live. Housing is considerably cheaper than in many parts of the DC/Baltimore area. There are some nice shops and restaurants  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Laurel


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.