Where Prince George's and Howard County Meet

Laurel’s history predates most Prince George’s suburbs by decades. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad established the town as a stop on the line between Washington and Baltimore in the 1830s, and that railroad heritage still shapes the community. Laurel’s Main Street maintains genuine small-town character – not manufactured charm but actual historic buildings housing local businesses, restaurants, and services.

The town split between counties creates interesting dynamics. Prince George’s County governs the southern and eastern portions, while Howard County administers the northern and western sections. This boundary affects schools, services, and taxation, making it essential for buyers to understand exactly which jurisdiction covers their target properties.

Downtown Laurel has experienced genuine revitalization. Main Street businesses include independent restaurants, antique shops, and the kind of local enterprises that create community character. The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department’s annual antique car show draws thousands. The annual Main Street Festival celebrates the community’s small-town identity.

MARC’s Camden Line provides commuter rail access to both Washington DC and Baltimore, making Laurel attractive for those commuting in either direction. The train station sits within walking distance of downtown, enabling car-light living for some residents.

Laurel Lakes, a master-planned community on the Prince George’s side, brought newer housing stock and amenities including the Laurel Park & Ride, which provides transit connectivity. Konterra, a massive development on the Howard County side, promises thousands of additional homes and commercial space as it builds out over coming years.

Laurel Park (formerly Pimlico Race Course’s wintertime partner, now primarily a training facility) maintains the area’s connection to thoroughbred racing, though active racing has ceased.

Housing spans a remarkable range: historic Victorian homes near downtown, mid-century neighborhoods throughout, and new construction in Laurel Lakes and Konterra. Prices vary significantly based on county, neighborhood, and housing type.