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Studio Apartment for Rent in Big Rapids, MI

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    $845 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • Condo for Rent

    412 S State St Unit 1, Big Rapids, MI 49307

    412 S State St Unit 1, Big Rapids, MI 49307

Why Live in Big Rapids

Big Rapids, Michigan, is a small city known for its college-town atmosphere and abundant natural attractions. The Muskegon River flows through the town, providing opportunities for kayaking and ice fishing, while the surrounding national forest offers hiking, hunting, and snowmobiling. Hemlock Park features a wooden playground, pickleball courts, and a splash pad, and the Big Rapids Riverwalk connects various waterside parks, offering several miles for walking, biking, or skateboarding. The White Pine Trail, a major paved pathway, extends over 90 miles from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. Housing options in Big Rapids range from early-1900s homes with front porches and gabled roofs to ranch-style houses and contemporary properties on several acres. Riverview Elementary School is highly rated, and Ferris State University, with nearly 10,000 students, offers dual-enrollment courses for high school students. Downtown Big Rapids has locally owned boutiques and restaurants, including Blue Cow Cafe wine bar, Two Cheezy Guyz, and Three Girls Deli & Bakery. Nawal's Mediterranean Grille is another local favorite. Perry Avenue hosts larger retailers like Walmart Supercenter, Meijer, and Lowe’s. Community events include a farmers market, outdoor concerts, and the Festival of Lights. Ferris State University’s sports facilities are open to the public, and youth sports are popular. Major employers include Ferris State University and Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital. Grand Rapids, about 55 miles south, is accessible via U.S. Route 131 and offers the nearest airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Big Rapids, MI?
The median rent for a home in Big Rapids, MI is $1,650 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Big Rapids, MI?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Big Rapids, MI, a household needs to earn roughly $66,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,650 per month in Big Rapids, MI, renters typically need to show $4,950 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Big Rapids, MI?
In Big Rapids, MI, the price-to-rent ratio is 12.1, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$1,650
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,795
Median Condo Rent
$1,750
How to Rent a Home