Lawton, Van Buren County, MI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
2,104
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,652/yr
-3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
948
5.5% year-over-year change

Lawton population

How many people live in Lawton

Lawton is home to 2,104 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Lawton locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
2,104
2.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
1,015
Female
51.8%
1,089
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,015 48.2% 1.1%
Female 1,089 51.8% 3.5%
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 Lawton is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.2% of the population, while another 20% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
26.2%
45 to 64
20%
Over 65
24.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 396 18.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 218 10.4% 7.4%
25 to 44 551 26.2% 4.4%
45 to 64 421 20% 7.4%
Over 65 518 24.6% -3.7%
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 Lawton, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,059 97.9% 2.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 36 1.7% -10.0%
Non-citizens 9 0.4% 12.5%
Racial breakdown
White
87.3%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.7%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 1,837 87.3%
Black or African American 35 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 35 1.7%
Asian 19 0.9%
Two or more races 174 8.3%
Other 4 0.2%

Households in Lawton

A peek inside Lawton households

Lawton has 896 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.5% are families, while the remaining 40.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
896
4.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
363
Family households
533
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 363 40.5% 26.5%
Family households 533 59.5% -6.2%
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 Lawton

The housing landscape of Lawton

Lawton's housing consists of 948 units, with 71.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
948
5.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 681 71.8%
2 units 39 4.1%
3 or 4 units 21 2.2%
5 to 9 units 72 7.6%
10 to 19 units 22 2.3%
20 to 49 units 77 8.1%
50 or more units 19 2%
Mobile home 17 1.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lawton

In Lawton, the median construction year is 1966. About 33% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 313 33% 36.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 24 2.5% -27.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 113 11.9% 9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 41 4.3% -29.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 149 15.7% -9.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 102 10.8% -1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 114 12% 5.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 81 8.5% -8.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 11 1.2% 0.0%
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.

Lawton occupancy rates

Out of the 896 occupied housing units in Lawton, 64.8% are owner-occupied, while 35.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
896
4.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
315
Owner occupied
581
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 315 35.2% -0.3%
Owner occupied 581 64.8% 7.8%
Unoccupied housing units
5.5%
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.

Lawton housing costs

Housing costs in Lawton come to a median of $1,004 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $812.

Median housing costs per month
$1,004/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 Lawton
$812/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 Lawton

Lawton education at a glance

About 43.7% of the population in Lawton went to high school, while 26.6% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 10.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 75 4.7% 56.2%
High school diploma 704 43.7% -0.1%
College diploma 428 26.6% -2.1%
Associate degree 129 8% 21.7%
Bachelor's degree 176 10.9% -1.7%
Graduate degree 99 6.2% 0.0%
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 Lawton

How much people earn in Lawton

The average annual household income in Lawton was $59,217 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -7.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,652, reflecting a -3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lawton
$59,217/year
-7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lawton
$52,652/year
-3.8% year-over-year change

Lawton income by age

In Lawton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,539. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,875 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $56,316, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $30,625 in earnings. Overall, 81% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $56,316 2.0%
25 - 44 $69,539 -3.1%
45 - 64 $51,875 -22.1%
Over 65 $30,625 -0.5%
Above poverty level
1,595
Below poverty level
374
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,595 81% 0.9%
Below poverty level 374 19% 18.7%

Average renter income in Lawton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Lawton, their median household income was $29,837 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,837
Rent-to-income ratio
32.7%
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 Lawton

Workforce and job types in Lawton

The job market in Lawton is powered by 856 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 0.8% run their own businesses, 75.7% are employed by private companies, and 13.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
856
7.3% year-over-year change
White collar
582
Blue collar
274
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 582 68% 8.0%
Blue collar 274 32% 5.8%
Employer type
Self employees
0.8%
Private companies
75.7%
Governmental workers
13.7%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7 0.8% -63.2%
Private companies 648 75.7% 4.7%
Governmental workers 117 13.7% 34.5%
Not for profit companies 84 9.8% 15.1%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
-2.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lawton stands at 7.9%, 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 Lawton

How people get around in Lawton

Commuting methods vary: 87.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 720 87.2% 3.3%
Bicycle 10 1.2% N/A
Walk 26 3.2% 333.3%
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 Lawton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
49065 7,092 2,915 $71,447 $90,563

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FAQs about Lawton demographics 

What is the total population of Lawton?

Lawton has a total population of 2,104 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 +2.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lawton?

The gender ratio in Lawton is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (1,015 residents)
  • 51.8% females (1,089 residents)

What is the median age in Lawton?

The median age in Lawton is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lawton?

The age distribution in Lawton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (396 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (218 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.2% (551 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20% (421 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.6% (518 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lawton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lawton is as follows:
  • White: 87.3% (1,837 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (35 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.7% (35 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (19 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (174 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (4 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Lawton.

How many housing units are there in Lawton?

There are 948 housing units in Lawton, reflecting a +5.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lawton has a total of 896 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lawton?

Lawton has a median household income of $52,652, representing a -3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in Lawton, with a workforce of 856 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68% (582 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32% (274 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 0.8% (7 residents)
  • Private companies: 75.7% (648 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.7% (117 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (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