Median Income
$23,913
68% lower than US avg
Home Value
$84,200
70% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
1,238/100K
226% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
15.6%
54% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$518
55% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
51.9%
62% higher than US avg
Unemployment
4.8%
33% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
38.9%
214% higher than US avg
How Shaw Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population1,586
Median Age35.8 yrs
Density1,429/mi²
Male / Female42% / 58%
Largest GroupWhite 1%
Veterans1.2%
Economy
D
Median Income$23,913
Per Capita$15,141
Unemployment4.8%
Poverty38.9%
County GDP$863M
Commute23 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$84,200
Rent$518
Ownership60.5%
Zillow$94,961
Housing Units773
Rent Burden32.4%
Crime
F
Violent1,238/100K
Property7,214/100K
Health
Obesity51.9%
Uninsured16.5%
Smoking23.4%
Depression17.9%
Heart Disease7.9%
Climate
Avg Temp64°F (18°C)
AQI43 (Good)
Rain59.3 in/yr
Sunny Days304/yr
Elevation133 ft (41 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+15.6%
High School+81.2%
Graduate+8.2%
School Score3.16
Community
2024 VoteR 32% / D 67%
Commute23 min
Broadband73.3%
EV Stations2
Libraries5
Is Shaw a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Shaw receives an overall livability score of 2.5 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, an elevated poverty rate, a high uninsured rate. Shaw has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Shaw is $23,913, 68% below the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 4.8%, indicating a healthy job market. The poverty rate of 38.9% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Shaw is $84,200, 70% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $518 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 3.5x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.
Safety & Crime
With 1,238 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 7,214 per 100,000, 268% above the national average.
Education
15.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 81.2% have completed high school. School test scores average 3.2/10, below typical benchmarks.
Climate & Weather
Shaw enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F. Winters average 42°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. With 304 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 59.3 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.
Shaw has a population of 1,586 with a density of 1,429 people per square mile, spread across 1.1 square miles. The median age is 35.8 years, 8% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 57.7% female and 42.3% male. The city is predominantly Black (96.2%). English is the primary language spoken at home by 95.9% of residents. 1.2% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 23.6% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 86.3% have health insurance coverage.
Population
35.8yrs
Median Age
8% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
95.9%
22% above US avg
Spanish
4.1%
69% below US avg
The median household income in Shaw is $23,913, which is 68% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $15,141 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $789, 45% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 4.8% (above the 3.6% US average). 38.9% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 535 business establishments, including 37 restaurants. The cost of living index is 87, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes. 0.0% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $23,913 |
| 68% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $15,141 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $789 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $43,965 |
| Gini Index | 0.489 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 4.8% |
| 33% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 38.9% |
| 214% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 535 |
| County GDP | $863M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 37 |
| Healthcare | 55 |
| Retail | 83 |
| Manufacturing | 17 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $2,577 |
| 26% below US avg |
| Cost of Living | 87.00 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 3.06% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 23.4 min |
| Drive Alone | 91.1% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 0.0% |
The median home value in Shaw is $84,200, 70% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $94,961, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $518 (55% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $782 for a one-bedroom to $924 for a two-bedroom apartment. 60.5% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 773 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1977. The average annual property tax is $2,577 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 32.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.5x.
Home Values
| Census Median | $84,200 |
| 70% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $94,961 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $518 |
| 55% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 32.4% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $751 |
| 1 Bedroom | $782 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $924 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,177 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,295 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 60.5% |
| Owner-Occupied | 60.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 39.5% |
| Housing Units | 773 |
| Median Year Built | 1977 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $2,577 |
| 26% below US avg |
| Effective Rate | 3.06% |
In Shaw, 51.9% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 21.7% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.9% of residents, above the national average. 54.1% have high blood pressure. 23.4% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 9.8% report binge drinking. 47.9% are physically inactive, above the national average. 17.9% report depression. 21.0% experience frequent mental distress. 16.5% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,822. The dentist ratio is 1:2,481. 38.7% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 4.6 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Shaw vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 51.9% |
| 62% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 21.7% |
| Heart Disease | 7.9% |
| High Blood Pressure | 54.1% |
| Asthma | 12.3% |
| COPD | 10.4% |
| Cancer | 4.5% |
| Stroke | 6.5% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 23.4% |
| 67% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 9.8% |
| Physical Inactivity | 47.9% |
| Depression | 17.9% |
| Mental Distress | 21.0% |
| Physical Distress | 17.7% |
| Short Sleep | 44.2% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 86.3% |
| Uninsured | 16.5% |
| 92% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:2,822 |
| Dentists | 1:2,481 |
| Mental Health | 1:2,719 |
| Checkup Rate | 84.5% |
| Dental Visits | 5.3% |
| Premature Death | 18,895/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 4.6/10 |
| Exercise Access | 38.7% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 55 |
Shaw has a violent crime rate of 1,238 per 100,000 residents, 226% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 7,214 per 100,000, 268% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 11 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Shaw receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Shaw vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 1,238.3/100K |
| 226% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 7,213.8/100K |
| 268% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 11 |
| Traffic Accidents | 2 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Shaw enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winters average 42°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. The area gets 304 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 59.3 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 1.9 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 133 feet.
Temperature
42°F Jan (6°C)
82°F Jul (28°C)
| Annual Average | 63.6°F |
| 18% above US avg |
| January Average | 42°F (6°C) |
| July Average | 82°F (28°C) |
| Sunny Days | 304 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 133 ft (41 m) |
| Area | 1.1 sq mi (2.9 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,429/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 33.6015°N, 90.7720°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| County | Sunflower County County |
| Nearest Airport | Pinebluff Regional/Grider Field (PBF)
78 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
59.3"
56% above US avg
Wettest Month (Mar)
6.06"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 43.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 69.6 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 93.9 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 32.2 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Low |
| Hail |
Relatively Moderate |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Moderate |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Very Low |
| Lightning |
Relatively Low |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Moderate |
| Drought |
Relatively Moderate |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively High |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
13 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.7. Most recent: M2.8 on Aug 9, 2019.
| Jan 8, 2019 |
8 km WNW of Hollandale, Mississippi |
M3.7 |
47 km |
| May 3, 2015 |
7 km SSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.2 |
133 km |
| Jun 29, 2015 |
6 km SSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.2 |
133 km |
| Aug 11, 1996 |
9 km WSW of Shaw, Mississippi |
M3.1 |
10 km |
| Oct 26, 2002 |
3 km SE of Alligator, Mississippi |
M3.1 |
52 km |
| May 3, 2015 |
8 km WSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.0 |
129 km |
| Aug 11, 2002 |
8 km ESE of Darling, Mississippi |
M2.8 |
98 km |
| Aug 9, 2019 |
Mississippi |
M2.8 |
138 km |
| Feb 25, 1999 |
10 km NE of Oakland, Mississippi |
M2.8 |
103 km |
| Feb 11, 1991 |
10 km SSW of Clarksdale, Mississippi |
M2.7 |
59 km |
| Apr 11, 1996 |
9 km ENE of Biscoe, Arkansas |
M2.6 |
148 km |
| Aug 17, 2015 |
9 km N of Madison, Mississippi |
M2.6 |
133 km |
| Oct 20, 1999 |
8 km NE of Clarendon, Arkansas |
M2.5 |
136 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Hurricane History
2 hurricanes (Cat 1+) within 500 km since 1980.
Strongest: Category 1. Most recent: Laura (2020, Cat 1).
| Year |
Name |
Category |
Closest |
| 2020 |
Laura |
Category 2 |
281 km |
| 2005 |
Katrina |
Category 1 |
229 km |
Source: NOAA IBTrACS (Cat 1+, 1980–2026)
Tornado History
474 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 49 fatalities, 712 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Mar 24, 2023 |
EF4 |
87 km |
17 |
| Nov 24, 2001 |
EF4 |
34 km |
0 |
| Mar 9, 1992 |
EF4 |
62 km |
0 |
| Apr 17, 1978 |
EF4 |
26 km |
0 |
| Mar 24, 2023 |
EF3 |
75 km |
3 |
| Dec 23, 2015 |
EF3 |
45 km |
2 |
| Apr 27, 2011 |
EF3 |
86 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2007 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Nov 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
43 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
62 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
59 km |
0 |
| May 2, 1997 |
EF3 |
70 km |
0 |
| Dec 21, 1990 |
EF3 |
91 km |
1 |
| Dec 21, 1990 |
EF3 |
78 km |
0 |
| Nov 19, 1988 |
EF3 |
40 km |
0 |
| Apr 24, 1976 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Mar 20, 1976 |
EF3 |
86 km |
0 |
| Nov 24, 1973 |
EF3 |
54 km |
0 |
| Nov 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
67 km |
0 |
| Apr 21, 1972 |
EF3 |
45 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
8 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: COMP 139 (1,671 ac, 2010).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2010 |
COMP 139 |
1,671 |
95 km |
| 2010 |
DREW |
1,283 |
83 km |
| 2010 |
COMP 134 |
1,257 |
97 km |
| 2010 |
COMP 135 |
1,063 |
100 km |
| 2013 |
C-132 |
889 |
98 km |
| 2022 |
HOLLY SPRINGS BB 133 |
866 |
95 km |
| 1993 |
UNNAMED |
651 |
98 km |
| 1998 |
UNNAMED |
577 |
84 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
42°F (6°C) |
4.8 in |
Coldest |
| February |
47°F (8°C) |
4.8 in |
|
| March |
55°F (13°C) |
6.1 in |
Wettest |
| April |
63°F (17°C) |
5.5 in |
|
| May |
72°F (22°C) |
5.4 in |
|
| June |
79°F (26°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| July |
82°F (28°C) |
4.5 in |
Warmest |
| August |
81°F (27°C) |
2.8 in |
Driest |
| September |
75°F (24°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| October |
64°F (18°C) |
3.4 in |
|
| November |
54°F (12°C) |
5.2 in |
|
| December |
46°F (8°C) |
5.8 in |
|
Shaw has a seasonal temperature swing of 40°F / from 42°F in January to 82°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 55.8 inches, with March being the wettest month (6.1") and August the driest (2.8").
Average costs for common services in Shaw. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$218 ($131–$348) |
| Specialist Visit |
$305 ($174–$479) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$174 ($87–$305) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,914 ($696–$4,350) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$113 ($65–$174) |
| Dental Filling |
$218 ($131–$348) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$39 ($22–$65) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$65 ($44–$104) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$261 ($131–$435) |
| Tire Rotation |
$35 ($17–$65) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$522 ($348–$870) |
| Battery Replacement |
$174 ($87–$305) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$87 ($52–$131) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$78 ($44–$122) |
| HVAC Repair |
$348 ($131–$696) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,090 ($3,480–$10,440) |
| Roof Repair |
$870 ($348–$1,740) |
| Roof Replacement |
$7,830 ($4,785–$13,050) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,305 ($435–$3,045) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,050 ($4,350–$26,100) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,350 ($1,740–$8,700) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,305 ($696–$2,610) |
| Will Preparation |
$435 ($174–$870) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,175 ($870–$4,350) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$22 ($13–$39) |
| Women's Haircut |
$48 ($26–$87) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$131 ($65–$218) |
| Manicure |
$22 ($13–$39) |
| Pedicure |
$35 ($22–$57) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$70 ($44–$113) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.57 ($2.61–$4.79) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.05 ($2.18–$4.35) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.31 ($2.18–$4.79) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$3.92 ($2.61–$5.66) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.79 ($3.48–$6.53) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.87 ($0.52–$1.57) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$122 ($70–$218) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$61 ($26–$131) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$61 ($35–$104) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$61 ($35–$87) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$57 ($26–$87) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$74 ($44–$131) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$174 ($65–$435) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,740 ($1,044–$3,045) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$61 ($26–$113) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$13 ($6.96–$22) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$87 ($26–$218) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$26 ($13–$65) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,044 ($522–$2,175) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$870 ($435–$1,740) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$348 ($174–$609) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$44 ($22–$87) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$870 ($348–$2,175) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$10,875 ($4,350–$26,100) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$52 ($26–$87) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$87 ($44–$174) |
| Dog Grooming |
$52 ($26–$87) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$35 ($17–$65) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$261 ($131–$435) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$174 ($87–$348) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $508 |
| Toddler | $463 |
| Preschool | $463 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Shaw
What is the population of Shaw?
Shaw has a population of 1,586 residents and is located in Mississippi. The population density is 1,429 people per square mile, spread across 1.1 square miles. The median age of residents is 35.8 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 57.7% female and 42.3% male.
Is Shaw expensive to live in?
Shaw is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 87 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $23,913, 68% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $84,200 (70% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $518 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.5x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Shaw safe?
Public safety is a concern in Shaw, with a violent crime rate of 1,238 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 7,214 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Shaw receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Shaw?
Shaw enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winter temperatures average 42°F in January, while summers reach an average of 82°F in July. The area receives 304 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 59.3 inches, with 1.9 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.
How is the job market in Shaw?
Shaw has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 4.8%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $789. There are 535 business establishments in the area, including 37 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 23 minutes, and 0.0% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Shaw?
The median home value in Shaw is $84,200. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $94,961. For renters, the median monthly rent is $518. Fair market rent is $782 for a 1-bedroom and $924 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 60.5%. The average annual property tax is $2,577.
How are the schools in Shaw?
Schools in Shaw have an average test score of 3.2 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 15.6% of adults in Shaw hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 81.2% have completed high school. 8.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Shaw?
The obesity rate in Shaw is 51.9% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 23.4% of adults are smokers. 47.9% are physically inactive. 17.9% of residents report depression. 16.5% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 38.7% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,822.
What is transportation like in Shaw?
The average commute in Shaw is 23 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 91.1% of workers drive alone to work, and 0.0% work from home.
What are the demographics of Shaw?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Shaw is 0.7% White, 96.2% Black or African American. 95.9% of residents speak only English at home, while 4.1% speak Spanish. 1.2% of the population are military veterans. 23.6% of residents have a disability. 86.3% have health insurance coverage.
All Countries
