Kalamazoo, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
73,076
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,272/yr
6.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
32,379
-0.6% year-over-year change

Kalamazoo population

How many people live in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is home to 73,076 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Kalamazoo locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
73,076
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
35,355
Female
51.6%
37,721
Value Percent YoY change
Male 35,355 48.4% -0.3%
Female 37,721 51.6% 0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Kalamazoo is 27, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 30.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 16.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11% are 65 or older.

Median age
26.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
30.7%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
16.8%
Over 65
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,551 15.8% 0.5%
15 to 24 22,436 30.7% -0.2%
25 to 44 18,769 25.7% 0.6%
45 to 64 12,293 16.8% -2.1%
Over 65 8,027 11% 1.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Kalamazoo, 91.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 61.9% of locals are Caucasian, 22.5% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 67,034 91.7% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,619 3.6% 6.8%
Non-citizens 3,423 4.7% -19.8%
Racial breakdown
White
61.9%
Black or African American
22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 45,259 61.9%
Black or African American 16,435 22.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 386 0.5%
Asian 2,185 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 22 0%
Two or more races 6,051 8.3%
Other 2,738 3.8%

Households in Kalamazoo

A peek inside Kalamazoo households

Kalamazoo has 29,523 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 45% are families, while the remaining 55% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
29,523
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
16,229
Family households
13,294
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 16,229 55% 0.1%
Family households 13,294 45% -0.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Kalamazoo

The housing landscape of Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo's housing consists of 32,379 units, with 50.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
32,379
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,356 50.5%
1 unit, attached 919 2.8%
2 units 1,657 5.1%
3 or 4 units 1,912 5.9%
5 to 9 units 3,500 10.8%
10 to 19 units 2,579 8%
20 to 49 units 3,031 9.4%
50 or more units 1,955 6%
Mobile home 470 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
195
77.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kalamazoo

In Kalamazoo, the median construction year is 1959. About 29.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 9,648 29.8% 0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,222 6.9% -10.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,894 15.1% -1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,111 9.6% 2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,735 14.6% -5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,457 7.6% -6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,961 6.1% 3.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,540 4.8% -4.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,616 5% 23.8%
Built in 2020 or later 195 0.6% 77.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Kalamazoo occupancy rates

Out of the 29,523 occupied housing units in Kalamazoo, 42.3% are owner-occupied, while 57.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
29,523
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
17,044
Owner occupied
12,479
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 17,044 57.7% 0.9%
Owner occupied 12,479 42.3% -1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Kalamazoo housing costs

Housing costs in Kalamazoo come to a median of $1,053 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,078.

Median housing costs per month
$1,053/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Kalamazoo
$1,078/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo education at a glance

About 29.8% of the population in Kalamazoo went to high school, while 32.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 983 1.7% -46.4%
High school diploma 17,692 29.8% 1.5%
College diploma 19,526 32.9% 1.8%
Associate degree 4,060 6.8% -5.9%
Bachelor's degree 10,648 18% 0.5%
Graduate degree 6,390 10.8% 7.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Kalamazoo

How much people earn in Kalamazoo

The average annual household income in Kalamazoo was $70,572 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,272, reflecting a +6.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kalamazoo
$70,572/year
5.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kalamazoo
$52,272/year
6.8% year-over-year change

Kalamazoo income by age

In Kalamazoo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,501. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,672 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,179, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,160 in earnings. Overall, 75.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,179 1.0%
25 - 44 $60,501 7.7%
45 - 64 $60,672 10.9%
Over 65 $55,160 5.5%
Above poverty level
49,764
Below poverty level
16,206
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 49,764 75.4% 2.7%
Below poverty level 16,206 24.6% -8.2%

Average renter income in Kalamazoo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Kalamazoo, their median household income was $32,539 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,539
Rent-to-income ratio
39.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Kalamazoo

Workforce and job types in Kalamazoo

The job market in Kalamazoo is powered by 36,803 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 71.3% are employed by private companies, and 9.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,803
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
29,953
Blue collar
6,850
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 29,953 81.4% -0.8%
Blue collar 6,850 18.6% -2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
71.3%
Governmental workers
9.7%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,189 6% 0.1%
Private companies 26,239 71.3% -0.9%
Governmental workers 3,586 9.7% -11.4%
Not for profit companies 4,789 13% 6.7%
Unemployment rate
6.9%
-0.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kalamazoo stands at 6.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Kalamazoo

How people get around in Kalamazoo

In Kalamazoo, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
2.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 28,981 79.7% -2.1%
Taxicab 34 0.1% -19.1%
Bus or trolleybus 822 2.3% 4.5%
Motorcycle 6 0% -33.3%
Bicycle 100 0.3% -21.9%
Walk 2,647 7.3% 7.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Kalamazoo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49001 20,946 8,708 $56,432 $70,076
49006 26,507 11,114 $43,639 $70,723
49007 9,836 4,625 $39,344 $53,335
49008 16,137 6,324 $74,943 $100,777
49074 194 28 $33,750 $30,618

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FAQs about Kalamazoo demographics 

What is the total population of Kalamazoo?

Kalamazoo has a total population of 73,076 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kalamazoo?

The gender ratio in Kalamazoo is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (35,355 residents)
  • 51.6% females (37,721 residents)

What is the median age in Kalamazoo?

The median age in Kalamazoo is 26.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kalamazoo?

The age distribution in Kalamazoo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (11,551 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 30.7% (22,436 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (18,769 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.8% (12,293 residents)
  • Over 65: 11% (8,027 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kalamazoo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kalamazoo is as follows:
  • White: 61.9% (45,259 residents)
  • Black or African American: 22.5% (16,435 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (386 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (2,185 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (22 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (6,051 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (2,738 residents)

What percentage of the population in Kalamazoo are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.7% of the population in Kalamazoo.

How many housing units are there in Kalamazoo?

There are 32,379 housing units in Kalamazoo, reflecting a -0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Kalamazoo and what is the average household size?

Kalamazoo has a total of 29,523 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kalamazoo?

Kalamazoo has a median household income of $52,272, representing a +6.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Kalamazoo?

The employment rate is 93.1% in Kalamazoo, with a workforce of 36,803 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.4% (29,953 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.6% (6,850 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (2,189 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.3% (26,239 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 9.7% (3,586 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (4,789 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025