Question 1

Is Laurel, DE or Middletown, DE cheaper to buy in?

Accepted Answer

Laurel, DE is cheaper. The median home price in Laurel, DE is approximately $209,300 and in Middletown, DE it is approximately $416,600 — a difference of $207,300.

Question 2

Which has better schools, Laurel, DE or Middletown, DE?

Accepted Answer

Middletown, DE has higher-rated schools. Laurel, DE has a school rating of 7.3/10 and Middletown, DE has a rating of 8.2/10.

Question 3

Should I live in Laurel, DE or Middletown, DE?

Accepted Answer

If family is the top priority and you value a highly rated school, Middletown's slightly better schools and relatively stable community make it a good choice. However, if you're on a budget or willing to forgo a walkable environment, Laurel offers more affordable options with still reasonable schools. Overall, consider Middletown if you're not constrained by a tight budget, and Laurel if you need more affordable housing.

Category	Laurel, DE	Middletown, DE
Housing
Verdict	Good for now	Good for now
Median Price	$209K ✓ Lower price	$417K
Median Rent	$928 ✓ Lower rent	$1K
Median Income	$54K	$120K ✓ Higher income
Price Volatility	Low ✓ More stable	Moderate
Getting Around
Walk Score	Car-dependent	Car-dependent
Transit Score	Minimal transit	Minimal transit
Bike Score	N/A	N/A
Commute	45 min	N/A
Safety & Environment
Safety Grade	D+	D+
Violent Crime	Moderate	Moderate
Property Crime	Moderate	Moderate
Flood Risk	Low	Low
Air Quality	Good ✓ Cleaner air	Moderate
Community
Schools	7.3/10	8.2/10 ✓ Better schools
Best for	FamiliesCommutersRetirees	Families with school concernsSuburban commutersCar owners

Laurel, DE vs Middletown, DE

Bottom line