Let the numbers do the talking.
Belgrade, MT vs Laurel, MT
Belgrade, MT vs Laurel, MT: What the data shows
Belgrade, MT is in Belgrade, MT while Laurel, MT is in Laurel, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Laurel, MT is the more affordable option at $284,500 median — $126,000 less than Belgrade, MT's $410,500. WYLT rates Belgrade, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Laurel, MT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Belgrade, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Belgrade, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Laurel, MT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Belgrade, MT has Low flood risk and Laurel, MT has Low flood risk.
Laurel, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Belgrade, MT scores N/A/100 versus Laurel, MT's 46/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Belgrade, MT has the higher school rating — Belgrade, MT rates 6.3/10 and Laurel, MT rates 4.9/10.
| Category | Belgrade, MT | Laurel, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $411K | $285K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $947 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $84K ✓ Higher income | $84K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 46/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 60 min | 50 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.3/10 ✓ Better schools | 4.9/10 |
| Best for | Families with young childrenRemote workersPeople seeking low cost housing | FamiliesGood school seekersRetirees |
Bottom line
If you prioritize decent schools and a very low-cost environment isn't your top concern, Belgrade might be a better fit despite its drawbacks, but if you're looking for a more affordable option with great schools not being a top priority, Laurel is the way to go. For families and first-time home buyers seeking a balance of affordability and decent schools, Laurel is likely a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between Belgrade and Laurel depends on your individual priorities regarding commute time, school quality, and local amenities.
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