Plainwell, MI
Population 3,764 · Michigan
About Plainwell, MI
Plainwell is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 3,764 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,846 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Plainwell features a median home value of $191,100, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Plainwell in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $860, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,531 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (1,018 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (475 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Plainwell shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Plainwell have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.8% of Plainwell residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 11.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Plainwell, MI
Compared to national averages, Plainwell has a median household income of $65,846 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $191,100, which is 22% below the national median. Monthly rent at $860 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Plainwell's income is 0% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 4% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Plainwell, MI?
Plainwell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $191,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $860/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,846) that falls below the national average. However, Plainwell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Plainwell has a population of 3,764 with a median age of 39.9 years. Compare Plainwell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Plainwell
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paw Paw Lake | 3,794 | $65,360 | $191,100 | Compare |
| Williamston | 3,800 | $73,902 | $215,000 | Compare |
| Portland | 3,821 | $65,116 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Imlay City | 3,706 | $55,061 | $137,800 | Compare |
| Vicksburg | 3,824 | $70,070 | $208,300 | Compare |
| Boyne City | 3,829 | $68,087 | $233,900 | Compare |
| Cedar Springs | 3,661 | $56,711 | $203,400 | Compare |
| Romeo | 3,654 | $73,500 | $245,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Plainwell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Plainwell
What is the population of Plainwell, MI?
The population of Plainwell, MI is 3,764 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Plainwell?
The median household income in Plainwell, MI is $65,846 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Plainwell?
The median home value in Plainwell, MI is $191,100, which is 22% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Plainwell?
The median monthly rent in Plainwell, MI is $860, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Plainwell?
The unemployment rate in Plainwell, MI is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Plainwell, MI a good place to live?
Plainwell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,764 and a median age of 39.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Plainwell, MI?
21.8% of residents in Plainwell aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Plainwell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Plainwell, MI: median home value is $191,100 (22% below national), median rent is $860/month, and median household income is $65,846. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Plainwell?
The poverty rate in Plainwell, MI is 11.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Plainwell, MI?
Plainwell's population is 11.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 2.3% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.