Population Government data
The Kalamazoo area's population grew 0.8% from 2020 to 2025 (261,780 → 263,795), ranking #263 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). People moving in (net +1,713) account for most of the change.
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Kalamazoo are up 16% from 2021 to 2025 (419 → 487). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Kalamazoo area has about 115,768 homes. 57% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is older than most; 8% were built in 2010 or later. Older homes often need more repair, replacement and upgrade work. 65% of households own their home, and the median home value is $260,600.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 27 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $90,730 | 870 | #21 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $80,870 | 160 | #28 |
| Construction Supervisor | $76,040 | 530 | #227 |
| Telecom Line Installer | $76,010 | 60 | #96 |
| Building Inspector | $71,040 | 70 | #140 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $66,340 | 610 | #150 |
| Electrician | $65,690 | 680 | #154 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $61,730 | 190 | #155 |
| HVAC Technician | $61,270 | 430 | #149 |
| Carpenter | $61,060 | 410 | #118 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $60,200 | 230 | #207 |
| Tile Setter | $60,010 | 30 | #27 |
| Paving Equipment Operator | $59,910 | 60 | #41 |
| Roofer | $59,280 | 110 | #80 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $58,920 | 100 | #249 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $57,250 | 210 | #98 |
| Concrete Finisher | $52,600 | 150 | #193 |
| Construction Laborer | $51,380 | 620 | #105 |
| Machinist | $49,440 | 640 | #304 |
| Painter | $49,310 | 170 | #136 |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,210 | 560 | #230 |
| Welder | $47,560 | 250 | #329 |
| Glazier | $47,400 | 70 | #125 |
| Maintenance Technician | $46,700 | 1,230 | #254 |
| Hazmat Removal Worker | $45,650 | 60 | #100 |
| Pest Control Technician | $45,110 | 70 | #99 |
| Landscaper | $37,320 | 860 | #213 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
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