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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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