Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Plainwell, MI
Considering a move to Plainwell, MI? With a friendly population of 3,790, Plainwell offers affordable living—median home prices around $187,000 and rents near $890—well below national averages. The city boasts a low violent crime rate of 165 per 100K, short average commutes of about 21 minutes, and access to reputable schools. Enjoy a small-town feel, convenient health care, and the beauty of Michigan’s distinct seasons, all in a welcoming community.
Demographics - Plainwell, MI
Demographics - Plainwell, MI
Plainwell is a close-knit community of 3,790 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 38.8. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a small but present non-English-speaking population, contributing to its friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
3,790
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Plainwell, MI?
Living in Plainwell is notably affordable, with a median home value of $187,000 and average rent around $890. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$187,000
Gross Rent:
$890
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,280
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.2
Grocery:
91.3
Housing:
72.1
Utilities:
95.5
Transportation:
86.4
Health Care:
92.1
Miscellaneous:
88.5
Crime
Is Plainwell, MI a safe place to live?
Plainwell experiences a low violent crime rate of 165 incidents per 100,000 residents and a modest property crime rate, offering a sense of safety for families and newcomers. The odds of encountering violent crime are low, making the city a secure place to call home.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
165
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,315
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 606
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Plainwell, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons in Plainwell, from snowy winters to warm summers, with average summer highs reaching 83°F. The area receives about 37 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Plainwell’s residents benefit from a community-oriented lifestyle, with a median household income of $53,200 and a poverty rate just under 10%. Most adults have completed high school, and the average commute is a manageable 21 minutes.
Median Income:
$34,300
Household Income:
$53,200
Family Income:
$66,900
Per Capita Income:
$26,800
Income Male:
$48,900
Income Female:
$39,100
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$890
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
20.6%
Education
How are the schools in Plainwell, MI?
Education in Plainwell is served by well-regarded public schools, including Plainwell High School and Middle School, and a private school option. Several colleges, such as Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Valley Community College, are within a short drive, supporting lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Plainwell High School
Street:
684 Starr Rd
Phone:
269-685-9554
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1
Name:
Plainwell Middle School
Street:
720 Brigham St
Phone:
269-685-5813
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.4
Private Schools
Name:
Otsego Christian Academy
Street:
912 Barton St, Plainwell
Phone:
269-685-6281
Students:
90
Colleges
Name:
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
City:
Kalamazoo
State:
MI
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
9,200
Name:
Western Michigan University
City:
Kalamazoo
State:
MI
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
19,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in Plainwell, with two major hospitals nearby and over 93% of residents covered by health insurance. The area maintains a good healthcare index and has 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring reliable medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension Borgess Hospital
Address:
1521 Gull Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Phone:
(269) 226-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Bronson Methodist Hospital
Address:
601 John St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Phone:
(269) 341-7654
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Plainwell, MI?
The housing market in Plainwell is stable and accessible, with a median home price of $187,000 and a home ownership rate above 65%. Home appreciation has been steady, and rental options remain available with a healthy vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$187,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$890
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State office conveniently located on Main Street in Plainwell. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
329 S. Main St, Plainwell, MI 49080
Phone:
1-888-767-6424
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.