Paw Paw, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,289
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,587/yr
6.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,589
6.0% year-over-year change

Paw Paw population

How many people live in Paw Paw

Paw Paw is home to 3,289 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.8% of Paw Paw locals are male, and 48.2% are female.

Total population
3,289
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.8%
1,703
Female
48.2%
1,586
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,703 51.8% 3.3%
Female 1,586 48.2% -2.6%
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 Paw Paw is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.8% are children under 15, then 6.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 33.1% of the population, while another 18.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.8%
15 to 24
6.1%
25 to 44
33.1%
45 to 64
18.8%
Over 65
18.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 781 23.8% 2.2%
15 to 24 200 6.1% -24.2%
25 to 44 1,088 33.1% 4.6%
45 to 64 618 18.8% -6.7%
Over 65 602 18.3% 10.1%
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 Paw Paw, 94.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.3% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,103 94.3% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 91 2.8% 75.0%
Non-citizens 95 2.9% 48.4%
Racial breakdown
White
81.3%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.2%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 2,675 81.3%
Black or African American 84 2.6%
Asian 103 3.1%
Two or more races 367 11.2%
Other 60 1.8%

Households in Paw Paw

A peek inside Paw Paw households

Paw Paw has 1,505 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56% are families, while the remaining 44% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,505
5.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
662
Family households
843
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 662 44% 2.5%
Family households 843 56% 7.0%
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 Paw Paw

The housing landscape of Paw Paw

Paw Paw's housing consists of 1,589 units, with 52.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,589
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 836 52.6%
1 unit, attached 9 0.6%
2 units 57 3.6%
3 or 4 units 33 2.1%
5 to 9 units 254 16%
10 to 19 units 179 11.3%
20 to 49 units 91 5.7%
50 or more units 63 4%
Mobile home 67 4.2%
Homes built since 2020
6
-14.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Paw Paw

In Paw Paw, the median construction year is 1966. About 26.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 0.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 428 26.9% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 84 5.3% 21.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 171 10.8% 26.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 181 11.4% -3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 123 7.7% 373.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 346 21.8% -8.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 163 10.3% 5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 12 0.8% -61.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 75 4.7% 0.0%
Built in 2020 or later 6 0.4% -14.3%
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.

Paw Paw occupancy rates

Out of the 1,505 occupied housing units in Paw Paw, 48.8% are owner-occupied, while 51.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,505
5.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
771
Owner occupied
734
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 771 51.2% 2.7%
Owner occupied 734 48.8% 7.5%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

Paw Paw housing costs

Housing costs in Paw Paw come to a median of $920 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $761.

Median housing costs per month
$920/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 Paw Paw
$761/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 Paw Paw

Paw Paw education at a glance

About 45.7% of the population in Paw Paw went to high school, while 27.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 12.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 48 2% 6.7%
High school diploma 1,100 45.7% -11.0%
College diploma 666 27.6% -3.9%
Associate degree 239 9.9% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 308 12.8% 51.7%
Graduate degree 48 2% 20.0%
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 Paw Paw

How much people earn in Paw Paw

The average annual household income in Paw Paw was $55,757 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $41,587, reflecting a +6.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Paw Paw
$55,757/year
7.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Paw Paw
$41,587/year
6.7% year-over-year change

Paw Paw income by age

In Paw Paw, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,539. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $45,333 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $18,594, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $31,792 in earnings. Overall, 78.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $18,594 -38.6%
25 - 44 $47,539 5.6%
45 - 64 $45,333 5.8%
Over 65 $31,792 -14.6%
Above poverty level
2,420
Below poverty level
680
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,420 78.1% -3.7%
Below poverty level 680 21.9% 17.4%

Average renter income in Paw Paw

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Paw Paw, their median household income was $28,421 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,421
Rent-to-income ratio
32.1%
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 Paw Paw

Workforce and job types in Paw Paw

The job market in Paw Paw is powered by 1,295 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 72.1% are employed by private companies, and 11% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,295
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
942
Blue collar
353
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 942 72.7% 6.6%
Blue collar 353 27.3% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
72.1%
Governmental workers
11%
Not for profit companies
6.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 134 10.4% -11.8%
Private companies 934 72.1% 1.6%
Governmental workers 143 11% 85.7%
Not for profit companies 84 6.5% -15.2%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Paw Paw stands at 5.7%, 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 Paw Paw

How people get around in Paw Paw

Commuting methods vary: 78% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,010 78% -2.9%
Bus or trolleybus 60 4.6% 57.9%
Bicycle 12 0.9% N/A
Walk 76 5.9% -11.6%
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 Paw Paw by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49079 13,414 5,472 $73,333 $88,727

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FAQs about Paw Paw demographics 

What is the total population of Paw Paw?

Paw Paw has a total population of 3,289 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Paw Paw?

The gender ratio in Paw Paw is as follows:
  • 51.8% males (1,703 residents)
  • 48.2% females (1,586 residents)

What is the median age in Paw Paw?

The median age in Paw Paw is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Paw Paw?

The age distribution in Paw Paw is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.8% (781 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6.1% (200 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 33.1% (1,088 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.8% (618 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.3% (602 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Paw Paw?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Paw Paw is as follows:
  • White: 81.3% (2,675 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (84 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (103 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.2% (367 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (60 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.3% of the population in Paw Paw.

How many housing units are there in Paw Paw?

There are 1,589 housing units in Paw Paw, reflecting a +6.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Paw Paw has a total of 1,505 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Paw Paw?

Paw Paw has a median household income of $41,587, representing a +6.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Paw Paw, with a workforce of 1,295 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.7% (942 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.3% (353 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (134 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.1% (934 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11% (143 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.5% (84 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