Michigan / County

Moving to Big Rapids, MI

Thinking of making a move to Big Rapids, MI? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Rapids, MI

Considering a move to Big Rapids, MI? This welcoming community of 7,390 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $130,000 and average rents near $860. Commute times average 14 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (48% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Big Rapids's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Big Rapids, MI

Big Rapids has a population of 7,390 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 23 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 84% White, 9% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 7% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Big Rapids is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 82.7. Median home values are around $130,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $820. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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?

Big Rapids is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 330 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 39. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Michigan.

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?

Big Rapids experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and cold winters dipping to 13°F. The area receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 48% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
13°F
Max
31°F

Summer

Min
57°F
Max
81°F

Spring

Min
34°F
Max
65°F

Fall

Min
38°F
Max
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
48%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $31,350 and a low poverty rate of 36.5%. Over 91% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 21% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 14 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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?

Big Rapids offers quality education options, with public schools like Big Rapids High School and Brookside Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Ferris State University and Grand Rapids Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Big Rapids residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Spectrum Health Big Rapids Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 people and 91.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $130,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 35%. The market has seen a 5.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 10.2%. Big Rapids offers a mix of stability and opportunity 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

Residents of Big Rapids handle vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State, conveniently located in Big Rapids. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Michigan
Department
Michigan Secretary of State
Address
215 N Michigan Ave, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone
1-888-767-6424

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.

FAQs About Moving to Big Rapids, MI

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Big Rapids, review the core fields on this page: population 7,390, median home value $130,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $860, commute time 13.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 48%.

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