Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo, Michigan Overview

Kalamazoo faces challenges across several categories, earning a F grade (36.1/100) and ranking #17 of 20 cities in Michigan. Even so, the city scores 77/100 in Affordability — a relative bright spot compared to its Fiscal Health score of 12/100.

Income & Employment in Kalamazoo

The median household income in Kalamazoo is $50,044, 27% below the statewide median of $68,505. The local unemployment rate of 5.1% is higher than the state’s 4.9%. Population declined 0.1%.

Safety in Kalamazoo

With a violent crime rate of 1258.2 per 100,000, Kalamazoo exceeds the Michigan average of 430. Safety is a factor prospective residents should weigh carefully. The property crime rate is 4234.9 per 100,000.

Cost of Living in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has a cost of living index of 94 (where 100 equals the national average), slightly below the national benchmark. The median home value is $164,500. Median monthly rent is $1,031. Renters spend 24.7% of income on rent, well within the 30% affordability guideline.

Health & Wellness in Kalamazoo

The adult obesity rate in Kalamazoo is 41.8%, above the national average and a factor in the city’s health profile. The diabetes prevalence rate is 10.3%. Residents report an average of 23 poor mental health days per month, above the typical range. Michigan ranks #31 nationally for overall health.

Education & Schools in Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has a high school graduation rate of 76.2%. The student-teacher ratio is 18:1. Local districts invest $16,223 per student, well above the national median. The city has 37 public schools serving 15,972 students. School data is sourced from the NCES Common Core of Data and EDFacts.

Climate & Commute in Kalamazoo

The annual average temperature in Kalamazoo is 50.9°F. Summers average 69.6°F. Winters average 33.7°F. Annual precipitation is 40.6 inches. The average commute of 16.3 minutes is notably short.

Frequently Asked Questions