New: Get Kurby insights right inside Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin

    Add to Chrome
    logo
    B

    Big Rapids

    Big Rapids city, Michigan

    Affordable
    About Big Rapids

    Big Rapids offers a refreshing contrast to the escalating costs of living seen across much of the US. With a population just shy of 8,000, this charming Michigan town boasts a median home value of a mere $130,500, a figure that's a steal compared to the national average. This affordability, coupled with a laid-back atmosphere, makes Big Rapids an attractive haven for those seeking a simpler, more budget-friendly lifestyle. You'll find a strong sense of community here, where neighbors know each other and the pace of life allows for a genuine connection to the surrounding natural beauty.

    From an investment standpoint, Big Rapids presents a compelling case. While the median household income hovers around $36,058, significantly lower than the national average, the low cost of entry into the housing market opens doors for first-time homebuyers and savvy investors alike. The town's reputation for safety and its proximity to outdoor recreation, like the Muskegon River, further enhance its appeal. This is a place where young families, retirees, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life can find a welcoming and affordable place to call home, with the potential for solid long-term investment returns.

    Big Rapids, Michigan at a Glance

    Big Rapids is a city in Big Rapids city, Michigan with a population of approximately 7,915. The median home value is $130,500 and the median household income is $36,058. It has a Walk Score of 0 out of 100, indicating car dependency. The violent crime rate is 1.9 per 1,000 residents, which is 47% below the national average. Air quality is rated Good. The overall climate risk is rated as "Relatively Moderate." Median rent is $732 per month. Data sourced from the US Census Bureau, FBI Crime Data Explorer, EPA, Walk Score, and FEMA.

    Median Home Value

    $130,500

    Median Income

    $36,058

    Population

    7,915

    Walk Score

    0

    Air Quality

    AQI 41

    Good

    Climate Risk

    Relatively Moderate

    Kurby Score
    56
    C+

    Fair

    Walkability & Transit13/100
    Affordability78/100
    Safety95/100
    Economy26/100
    Environment48/100
    Education: Unavailable

    Are you a real estate agent in Big Rapids?

    Thousands of homebuyers research this neighborhood every month. Make sure they find you.

    Get discovered

    Your profile shown to every visitor

    Generate leads

    Direct calls, emails & website clicks

    Build authority

    Branded reports & local expert badge

    Claim this neighborhood

    Available on Pro & Enterprise plans

    Demographics
    Population
    7,915
    Median Age
    N/A
    Median Household Income
    $36,058

    52% below nat'l avg

    Bachelor's Degree+
    N/A
    Poverty Rate
    33.6%

    171% above nat'l avg

    Housing
    Median Home Value
    $130,500

    54% below nat'l avg

    Median Rent
    $732

    37% below nat'l avg

    Homeownership Rate
    40.7%

    38% below nat'l avg

    Affordability Index
    N/A
    Safety
    Violent Crime Rate
    1.9 per 1K

    47% below nat'l avg

    Property Crime Rate
    1.1 per 1K

    94% below nat'l avg

    Livability
    Walk Score
    0 / 100

    100% below nat'l avg

    Transit Score
    N/A
    Bike Score
    25 / 100

    22% below nat'l avg

    Want a detailed report for a specific address in Big Rapids?

    Air Quality
    AQI
    41

    Near nat'l avg

    Category
    Good
    GoodModerateUnhealthy
    Climate Risk
    Overall Risk
    Relatively Moderate
    Risk Score
    68.22

    Top Hazards

    Strong Wind
    Very High
    Winter Weather
    Very High
    Tornado
    Relatively High
    Noise Levels
    Overall
    N/A
    Road Traffic
    N/A
    Aviation
    N/A
    Rail
    N/A
    Utility Costs
    Electricity Rate
    18.4ยข/kWh

    11% above nat'l avg

    Est. Monthly Electric
    $166

    21% above nat'l avg

    Employment
    Unemployment Rate
    7.2%

    95% above nat'l avg

    Poverty Rate
    33.6%

    171% above nat'l avg

    Political Landscape

    Political Leaning
    Strongly Republican
    DemocratRepublican

    โ†’ Politically stable

    Based on Gratiot County county-level presidential election data

    Presidential Election Results

    Culture & Things to Do in Big Rapids

    Attractions & Landmarks
    ๐Ÿ“œMecosta County Courthouse(historic)
    ๐ŸŒณBig Rapids Riverwalk(park)
    ๐ŸฆCard Wildlife Education Center(zoo)
    ๐Ÿ›๏ธBig Rapids Museum of Pioneer and Local History(museum)
    ๐Ÿ—๏ธBig Rapids Water Tower(landmark)
    ๐Ÿ“œOld Jail Museum(historic)
    Local Events & Festivals

    National Lumberjack Days

    Annual festival featuring lumberjack competitions and family activities.

    Big Rapids Festival of the Arts

    A juried art fair showcasing local and regional artists.

    Mecosta County Fair

    A traditional county fair with agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and entertainment.

    Summer Concert Series

    Free outdoor concerts held throughout the summer months.

    Things to Know Before Moving

    Similar Cities in Michigan

    People Also Compare

    Explore Michigan

    Find Your Perfect Neighborhood

    Tell us what matters most to you and we'll match you with neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.