Median Income
$38,433
49% lower than US avg
Home Value
$110,300
61% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
787/100K
107% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
12.1%
64% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$722
38% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
39.6%
23% higher than US avg
Unemployment
7.5%
108% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
28.7%
131% higher than US avg
How Dowagiac Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population5,677
Median Age37.3 yrs
Density1,276/mi²
Male / Female49% / 51%
Largest GroupWhite 76%
Veterans6.9%
Economy
D
Median Income$38,433
Per Capita$26,286
Unemployment7.5%
Poverty28.7%
County GDP$1,897M
Commute25 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$110,300
Rent$722
Ownership50.3%
Zillow$218,309
Housing Units2,904
Rent Burden30.0%
Crime
F
Violent787/100K
Property3,410/100K
Murder0.0/100K
Assault577/100K
Burglary402/100K
Health
Obesity39.6%
Uninsured9.5%
Smoking19.8%
Depression29.4%
Heart Disease6.6%
Climate
Avg Temp48°F (9°C)
AQI38 (Good)
Rain41.7 in/yr
Sunny Days275/yr
Elevation771 ft (235 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+12.1%
High School+85.3%
Graduate+3.2%
School Score5.20
Community
2024 VoteR 66% / D 32%
Commute25 min
Broadband86.9%
EV Stations3
Libraries7
Is Dowagiac a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Dowagiac receives an overall livability score of 2.4 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate. Dowagiac has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Dowagiac is $38,433, 49% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 7.5% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 28.7% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 25 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Dowagiac is $110,300, 61% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $722 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2.9x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
With 787 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,410 per 100,000, 74% above the national average.
Education
12.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.3% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.2/10.
Climate & Weather
Dowagiac experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 48°F. Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 71°F in July. With 275 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 41.7 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 38.
Dowagiac has a population of 5,677 with a density of 1,276 people per square mile, spread across 4.5 square miles. The median age is 37.3 years, 4% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 51.3% female and 48.7% male. The city is predominantly White (75.8%), with 4.7% Hispanic, 12% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 90.9% of residents, while 9.1% speak Spanish. 6.9% of the population are veterans. 24.1% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 87.4% have health insurance coverage.
Population
37.3yrs
Median Age
4% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
90.9%
16% above US avg
Spanish
9.1%
32% below US avg
The median household income in Dowagiac is $38,433, which is 49% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $26,286 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $998, 30% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 7.5% (above the 3.6% US average). 28.7% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 932 business establishments, including 64 restaurants. The cost of living index is 96.2, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 25 minutes. 3.5% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $38,433 |
| 49% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $26,286 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $998 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $83,974 |
| Gini Index | 0.465 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 7.5% |
| 108% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 28.7% |
| 131% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 932 |
| County GDP | $1,897M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 64 |
| Healthcare | 60 |
| Retail | 113 |
| Manufacturing | 75 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $6,290 |
| 80% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 96.20 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 5.70% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 24.8 min |
| Drive Alone | 74.5% |
| Public Transit | 1.5% |
| Work from Home | 3.5% |
The median home value in Dowagiac is $110,300, 61% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $218,309, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 93.1% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $722 (38% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $891 for a one-bedroom to $1,113 for a two-bedroom apartment. 50.3% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 2,904 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1953. The average annual property tax is $6,290 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 30.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.9x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $110,300 |
| 61% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $218,309 |
| Median List Price | $125,000 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median List Price | $125,000 |
| $/Sq Ft | $99 |
| Homes Sold | 5 |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 93.1% |
| Price Drops | 38.5% |
| Inventory | 13 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $722 |
| 38% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 30.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $807 |
| 1 Bedroom | $891 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,113 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,419 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,588 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 50.3% |
| Owner-Occupied | 50.3% |
| Renter-Occupied | 49.7% |
| Housing Units | 2,904 |
| Median Year Built | 1953 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $6,290 |
| 80% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 5.70% |
In Dowagiac, 39.6% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 12.0% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.6% of residents. 35.4% have high blood pressure. 19.8% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 16.4% report binge drinking. 29.3% are physically inactive, above the national average. 29.4% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 21.4% experience frequent mental distress. 9.5% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:4,680. The dentist ratio is 1:3,427. 62.9% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.0 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Dowagiac vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 39.6% |
| 23% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 12.0% |
| Heart Disease | 6.6% |
| High Blood Pressure | 35.4% |
| Asthma | 12.9% |
| COPD | 9.2% |
| Cancer | 7.2% |
| Stroke | 3.8% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 19.8% |
| 41% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 16.4% |
| Physical Inactivity | 29.3% |
| Depression | 29.4% |
| Mental Distress | 21.4% |
| Physical Distress | 15.9% |
| Short Sleep | 38.3% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 87.4% |
| Uninsured | 9.5% |
| 10% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:4,680 |
| Dentists | 1:3,427 |
| Mental Health | 1:939 |
| Checkup Rate | 77.5% |
| Dental Visits | 60.8% |
| Premature Death | 9,385/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.0/10 |
| Exercise Access | 62.9% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 60 |
Dowagiac has a violent crime rate of 787 per 100,000 residents, 107% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 577.0 per 100,000, robbery at 17.5, rape at 192.3. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 3,410 per 100,000, 74% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 2,658, burglary at 402, vehicle theft at 350 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 14 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Dowagiac receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Dowagiac vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 786.9/100K |
| 107% above US avg |
| Murder | 0.0/100K |
| 100% below US avg |
| Rape | 192.3/100K |
| Robbery | 17.5/100K |
| Assault | 577.0/100K |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,409.7/100K |
| 74% above US avg |
| Burglary | 402.2/100K |
| Theft | 2,657.8/100K |
| Vehicle Theft | 349.7/100K |
| Arson | 0.0/100K |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 14 |
| Traffic Accidents | 50 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 3.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Dowagiac experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 48°F (9°C). Winters average 24°F in January while summers reach 71°F in July. The area gets 275 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 41.7 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 38. The city sits at an elevation of 771 feet.
Temperature
24°F Jan (-5°C)
71°F Jul (22°C)
| Annual Average | 48.1°F |
| 11% below US avg |
| January Average | 24°F (-5°C) |
| July Average | 71°F (22°C) |
| Sunny Days | 275 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 771 ft (235 m) |
| Area | 4.5 sq mi (11.8 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,276/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 41.9834°N, 86.1128°W |
| Timezone | America/Detroit |
| County | Cass County County |
| Nearest Airport | Southwest Michigan Regional (BEH)
19 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
41.7"
10% above US avg
Wettest Month (Sep)
3.98"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 38.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 47.7 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 52.6 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 49.8 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Very Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Low |
| Hail |
Relatively Moderate |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively High |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Low |
| Lightning |
Relatively Low |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Low |
| Drought |
Very Low |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
4 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.2. Most recent: M3.3 on Jun 30, 2015.
| May 2, 2015 |
5 km S of Galesburg, Michigan |
M4.2 |
63 km |
| Jun 30, 2015 |
5 km NNE of Burlington, Michigan |
M3.3 |
90 km |
| Nov 4, 2013 |
1 km SSW of Lyons, Illinois |
M3.2 |
143 km |
| Jan 26, 2012 |
5 km NE of Topeka, Indiana |
M3.0 |
69 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
372 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF5. Total: 159 fatalities, 2,038 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 3, 1956 |
EF5 |
75 km |
17 |
| Apr 2, 1977 |
EF4 |
57 km |
0 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
45 km |
36 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
94 km |
21 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
52 km |
31 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
53 km |
5 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF4 |
83 km |
23 |
| Oct 18, 2007 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Oct 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
48 km |
1 |
| May 15, 1986 |
EF3 |
95 km |
0 |
| May 13, 1980 |
EF3 |
28 km |
0 |
| May 13, 1980 |
EF3 |
48 km |
5 |
| Mar 12, 1976 |
EF3 |
78 km |
0 |
| Mar 12, 1976 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
| Apr 3, 1974 |
EF3 |
82 km |
5 |
| Nov 26, 1965 |
EF3 |
45 km |
0 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF3 |
60 km |
0 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF3 |
80 km |
10 |
| Apr 11, 1965 |
EF3 |
100 km |
0 |
| Apr 30, 1962 |
EF3 |
49 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Tsunami History
1 tsunami recorded within 500 km.
Highest wave on record: 3.0 m (10 ft).
| Year |
Location |
Cause |
Max Wave |
Deaths |
Distance |
| 1954 |
MICHIGAN CITY, IN (LAKE MICHIGAN) |
Avalanche |
3.0 m |
7 |
71 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Wildfire History
3 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: ALLEGAN6 (1,077 ac, 1988).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 1988 |
ALLEGAN6 |
1,077 |
66 km |
| 2021 |
21-INDU TOLLESTON DUNES EAST |
594 |
100 km |
| 2017 |
17 INDU COWLES DUNES |
522 |
90 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
24°F (-5°C) |
2.2 in |
Coldest |
| February |
27°F (-3°C) |
1.8 in |
Driest |
| March |
37°F (3°C) |
2.7 in |
|
| April |
48°F (9°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| May |
59°F (15°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| June |
68°F (20°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| July |
71°F (22°C) |
3.7 in |
Warmest |
| August |
70°F (21°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| September |
63°F (17°C) |
4.0 in |
Wettest |
| October |
52°F (11°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| November |
40°F (4°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| December |
29°F (-2°C) |
3.2 in |
|
Dowagiac has a seasonal temperature swing of 47°F / from 24°F in January to 71°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 38.4 inches, with September being the wettest month (4.0") and February the driest (1.8").
Average costs for common services in Dowagiac. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$241 ($144–$385) |
| Specialist Visit |
$337 ($192–$529) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$192 ($96–$337) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,116 ($770–$4,810) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$125 ($72–$192) |
| Dental Filling |
$241 ($144–$385) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$43 ($24–$72) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$72 ($48–$115) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$289 ($144–$481) |
| Tire Rotation |
$38 ($19–$72) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$577 ($385–$962) |
| Battery Replacement |
$192 ($96–$337) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$96 ($58–$144) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$87 ($48–$135) |
| HVAC Repair |
$385 ($144–$770) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,734 ($3,848–$11,544) |
| Roof Repair |
$962 ($385–$1,924) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,658 ($5,291–$14,430) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,443 ($481–$3,367) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$14,430 ($4,810–$28,860) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,810 ($1,924–$9,620) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,443 ($770–$2,886) |
| Will Preparation |
$481 ($192–$962) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,405 ($962–$4,810) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$24 ($14–$43) |
| Women's Haircut |
$53 ($29–$96) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$144 ($72–$241) |
| Manicure |
$24 ($14–$43) |
| Pedicure |
$38 ($24–$63) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$77 ($48–$125) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.94 ($2.89–$5.29) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.37 ($2.41–$4.81) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.66 ($2.41–$5.29) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.33 ($2.89–$6.25) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.29 ($3.85–$7.22) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.96 ($0.58–$1.73) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$135 ($77–$241) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$67 ($29–$144) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$67 ($38–$115) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$67 ($38–$96) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$63 ($29–$96) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$82 ($48–$144) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$192 ($72–$481) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,924 ($1,154–$3,367) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$67 ($29–$125) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.70–$24) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$96 ($29–$241) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$29 ($14–$72) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,154 ($577–$2,405) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$962 ($481–$1,924) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$385 ($192–$673) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$48 ($24–$96) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$962 ($385–$2,405) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$12,025 ($4,810–$28,860) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$58 ($29–$96) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$96 ($48–$192) |
| Dog Grooming |
$58 ($29–$96) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$38 ($19–$72) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$289 ($144–$481) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$192 ($96–$385) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $577 |
| Toddler | $577 |
| Preschool | $523 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
| Infant | $686 |
| Toddler | $703 |
| Preschool | $703 |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dowagiac
What is the population of Dowagiac?
Dowagiac has a population of 5,677 residents and is located in Michigan. The population density is 1,276 people per square mile, spread across 4.5 square miles. The median age of residents is 37.3 years. The population is 51.3% female and 48.7% male.
Is Dowagiac expensive to live in?
Dowagiac has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 96.2 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $38,433, 49% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $110,300 (61% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $722 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Dowagiac safe?
Public safety is a concern in Dowagiac, with a violent crime rate of 787 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,410 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Dowagiac receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Dowagiac?
Dowagiac has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 48°F (9°C). Winter temperatures average 24°F in January, while summers reach an average of 71°F in July. The area receives 275 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 41.7 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 38.
How is the job market in Dowagiac?
The unemployment rate in Dowagiac is 7.5%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $998. There are 932 business establishments in the area, including 64 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 25 minutes, and 3.5% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Dowagiac?
The median home value in Dowagiac is $110,300. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $218,309. For renters, the median monthly rent is $722. Fair market rent is $891 for a 1-bedroom and $1,113 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 50.3%. The average annual property tax is $6,290.
How are the schools in Dowagiac?
Schools in Dowagiac score 5.2 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 12.1% of adults in Dowagiac hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.3% have completed high school. 3.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Dowagiac?
The obesity rate in Dowagiac is 39.6% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 19.8% of adults are smokers. 29.3% are physically inactive. 29.4% of residents report depression. 9.5% lack health insurance. 62.9% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:4,680.
What is transportation like in Dowagiac?
The average commute in Dowagiac is 25 minutes. 74.5% of workers drive alone to work, 1.5% use public transit, and 3.5% work from home.
What are the demographics of Dowagiac?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Dowagiac is 75.8% White, 12% Black or African American, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino. 90.9% of residents speak only English at home, while 9.1% speak Spanish. 6.9% of the population are military veterans. 24.1% of residents have a disability. 87.4% have health insurance coverage.
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