Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Rapids, MI
Considering a move to Big Rapids, MI? This college town of 7,390 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $130,000 and average rents near $820. Residents enjoy a short average commute of just 14 minutes and access to Ferris State University, making it a vibrant hub for students and families. While property crime rates are higher than average, the low cost of living, local hospital access, and a four-season climate make Big Rapids an attractive option for those seeking small-town charm in west-central Michigan.
Demographics - Big Rapids, MI
Demographics - Big Rapids, MI
Big Rapids is a youthful city with a population of 7,390 and a median age of just 22.6, thanks in part to its university community. The area is predominantly White (84%), with a modest mix of other ethnic groups and about 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a close-knit, small-town feel.
Population:
7,390
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
22.6
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.1%
Black:
8.5%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Rapids, MI?
Big Rapids offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $130,000 and average rent of $820, making it budget-friendly for students and families. The cost of living index is significantly below the national average, particularly in housing and transportation. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$130,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,010
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.7
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
89.5
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Big Rapids, MI a safe place to live?
While Big Rapids enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate, with a 1 in 300 chance of being affected, property crime is more common, with a 1 in 39 likelihood. The overall crime index reflects this higher rate of property incidents, so residents may want to take standard precautions. Despite this, many find the city’s safety on par with similar college towns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
330
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,600
Crime Index:
2,930
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 300
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 39
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Rapids, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters where temperatures often dip below freezing and warm, pleasant summers reaching the low 80s. The city sees about 33.5 inches of rainfall annually, and roughly 48% of days are sunny. These weather patterns support a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Big Rapids is a community of modest means, with a median household income of $31,350 and a notable poverty rate of 36.5%, influenced by its large student population. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging under 14 minutes. The area’s friendly, close-knit atmosphere is shaped by both long-term residents and university students.
Median Income:
$15,800
Household Income:
$31,350
Family Income:
$46,900
Per Capita Income:
$15,800
Income Male:
$20,300
Income Female:
$16,900
Poverty Rate:
36.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.8%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.3%
Commute Time:
13.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.9%
Bachelors or More:
21.3%
Education
How are the schools in Big Rapids, MI?
Education in Big Rapids is anchored by Ferris State University, a major local institution with over 10,000 students, providing cultural and academic vibrancy. The city offers a mix of public and private K–12 schools, including Big Rapids High School and St. Mary's Catholic School, with reasonable student-teacher ratios. Families benefit from comprehensive educational options, both locally and within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Big Rapids High School
Street:
21175 15 Mile Rd
Phone:
231-796-7651
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
Brookside Elementary School
Street:
210 Escott St
Phone:
231-592-3504
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's Catholic School
Street:
927 Marion Ave
Phone:
231-796-6731
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Ferris State University
City:
Big Rapids
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,361
Name:
Grand Rapids Community College
City:
Grand Rapids
State:
MI
Distance:
56 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Big Rapids is anchored by Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital, which provides emergency and general medical services locally. With nearly 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% of people covered by health insurance, access to care is strong for a city its size. The healthcare index indicates generally favorable service quality and affordability.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital
Address:
605 Oak St, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone:
(231) 796-8691
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Rapids, MI?
The housing market in Big Rapids is accessible, with a median home price of $130,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $860. Owner-occupied homes make up about 35% of the market, and rental vacancies are higher than average, offering plenty of choice for newcomers. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making the area attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$130,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
35.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Big Rapids residents are served by the Michigan Secretary of State office located conveniently on N Michigan Ave. Here, locals can handle driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and other DMV needs. Additional information and online services are available through the official Michigan Secretary of State website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
215 N Michigan Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
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.