Home to Grand Valley State University’s main campus, Allendale is more than a college town in western Michigan. The township offers a relaxed lifestyle with a thriving outdoor scene and easy access to U.S. Interstate 96. "Allendale is conveniently located in the middle of Ottawa County, which makes for an easy commute to Grand Haven, Holland or Grand Rapids," says Johnathan Burkhard, Grand Valley alum and former Allendale resident. "I enjoy watching the seasons change from within the parks on Lake Michigan's shores." Established as a township in 1849, Allendale was initially occupied by the Ottawa people. European settlers moved in after Michigan became a state in 1837 and developed as a transportation hub along the Grand River. Today, the township is home to more than 25,000 residents and takes pride in its more than 175 years of history. Grand Valley State University is the primary employer of the township, contributing more than 4,000 jobs to the workforce. Despite GVSUs presence, Allendale maintains its small-town feel through beloved annual events like the 4th of July Celebration. With continued growth and a larger sense of community, Allendale is on the rise in Ottawa County, all just 15 miles from Grand Rapids.
New developments are popping up all the time in Allendale.
Allendale is home to Grand Valley State University’s main campus.
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New housing developments on former Allendale farmland
The housing market in Allendale is desirable because of its ongoing development and wide range of housing options. With a median sales price of $412,000, homes cost around $5,000 more than the national median. Most of the stock features ranch-style or split-level designs. Neighborhoods like Allendale Meadows and Knollwood Estates have mobile parks, while Oakview Estates, Hidden Forest and Hidden Shores offer new housing developments on former farmland. Prices range from around $50,000 for a three-bedroom manufactured home to $800,000 for a five-bedroom newly constructed two-story traditional. Outliers with expansive acreage can reach up to $1 million.
Allendale has a wide variety of newly-built home styles.
Allendale offers some spacious contemporary homes with traditional styling.
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Allendale Public Schools and Grand Valley State University
Families in Allendale are zoned for Allendale Public School District, which earns a B-plus rating from the review site Niche. The district serves over 2,500 students and is ranked 75th out of 517 for districts with the best teachers in Michigan. There are three elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools. Most students attend Allendale High School, which earns a B-plus and offers a fine arts program and six AP courses. Private options like Allendale Christian School are also available. Those interested in pursuing higher education can look to Grand Valley State University (GVSU) on the city's east side. GVSU is west Michigan’s premier university. It offers competitive academic courses and over 400 student organizations. The university has won the Director’s Cup in NCAA Division II more than any other athletic program.
Allendale High School offers a fine arts program and six AP courses.
Grand Valley State University in Allendale has great academic and athletic programs.
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Gathering at Allendale Community Park
Allendale is a 20-minute drive from Lake Michigan’s shore; however, there are several parks and trails to explore in town. "It's so nice to have quick access to the beaches of Lake Michigan," says Emily Bonello, Grand Valley alum and Allendale resident of 10 years. Allendale Community Park is centrally located and offers a mulched playground, pickleball courts, six baseball fields and a seasonal splash pad. Dog owners and hiking enthusiasts head to Grand Ravines North County Park a mile south of GVSU. It spans over 200 acres and offers a hive of walking trails and scenic views of the Grand River. Popular spots include the 20-acre Grand Ravines Dog Park, with fenced off-leash areas for large and small dogs. The Meadows is GVSU's challenging 18-hole golf course. It offers a driving range and a learning center for players of all skill levels. Allendale experiences all four seasons, from hot summers to freezing winters, with an average annual snowfall of 75 inches.
Neighborhood kids love the playground at Allendale Community Park.
Grand Ravines Dog Park in Allendale has vast green spaces for furry friends to enjoy.
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The annual 4th of July Celebration
In July, residents can attend the annual Allendale 4th of July Celebration at Allendale Community Park. The festivities kick off with a parade at 10:00 a.m. on July 4th and conclude with a highly anticipated fireworks display at 10:15 p.m. Visitors can enjoy the car show, carnival games and a collection of local food vendors throughout the day.
Local grocers and restaurants along Lake Michigan Drive
Allendale does not have a designated downtown area, however, groceries and everyday essentials are available along Lake Michigan Drive. The thoroughfare is lined with grocers like Family Fare Supermarket or Aldi and retailers like Dollar General and Walgreens. When dining in the area, folks can choose between dozens of fast-food chains and a few local restaurants. Main St. Pub is a favorite among Grand Valley students, known for its Tuesday karaoke nights, comfort pub food and top-secret ranch dressing recipe. Peppino’s Pizzeria is a classic Italian sports bar with various pizzas, pasta, wings and burgers for game day dinners.
Allendale residents can stock up on groceries at Family Fare on Lake Michigan Dr.
Main St. Pub in Allendale is known for its Tuesday karaoke nights and comfort pub food.
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Nearby healthcare and trips into Grand Rapids on Lake Michigan Drive
Lake Michigan Drive and 68th Avenue intersect at the heart of the community, connecting residents to Grand Rapids and U.S. I-96 to the north. Public rides are provided by The Rapid, a bus system that serves the Grand Rapids Metro Area. When traveling farther, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport is 27 miles away. For healthcare, the Allendale Health Center is located along Becker Drive on the east side of the community.
Crime and monthly tornado sirens
Crime statistics specific to Allendale are not readily available, but Ottawa County, which oversees Allendale, saw a decline in violent and property crime in 2023, and its rates for both remain well below national figures. Allendale’s location is considered a marginal Tornado Alley, meaning there’s a slightly higher chance of tornado activity than the national average. Every first Friday of the month, the tornado sirens in Allendale Community Park and at Grand Valley State University will sound for several seconds as a habitual test.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Allendale, MI sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Allendale, MI over the last 12 months is $449,900, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence in Pearline Estates, Allendale, offering plenty of finished living space on an expansive acre lot. This single-family home features a 3-car garage and sits on a waterfront property with direct access to 2 ponds, providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities and serene water views. The generous lot size affords privacy and space for
Welcome to this spacious, well-maintained condo offering comfortable, easy living. The open-concept kitchen and living area features a walk-in pantry, soft-close cabinets and an 8-ft slider leading to the deck. The main-floor primary suite includes a walk-in closet and convenient direct access to the laundry. Also on the main floor is a separate bonus room, perfect for an office or possible 3rd
Welcome to this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence in Pearline Estates, Allendale, offering plenty of finished living space on an expansive acre lot. This single-family home features a 3-car garage and sits on a waterfront property with direct access to 2 ponds, providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities and serene water views. The generous lot size affords privacy and space for
Welcome to this spacious, well-maintained condo offering comfortable, easy living. The open-concept kitchen and living area features a walk-in pantry, soft-close cabinets and an 8-ft slider leading to the deck. The main-floor primary suite includes a walk-in closet and convenient direct access to the laundry. Also on the main floor is a separate bonus room, perfect for an office or possible 3rd
a beautiful new construction home designed for the way today’s families live!The open-concept main level features a spacious kitchen with a walk-in pantry that flows effortlessly into the dining area and gathering room, creating the perfect space for entertaining or everyday life.Upstairs, you’ll find generously sized bedrooms and flexible living space to accommodate your family’s
Welcoming two-story home with open concept, spacious great room, large kitchen hosts an island with snack ledge, cozy dining space, and convenient walk-in pantry. The exceptional second-floor primary bedroom suite includes an extensive walk-in closet and private bath complete with secluded water closet and linen closet. The mud room provides plenty of storage with a closet and additional bench
Welcoming two-story home with open concept, spacious great room, large kitchen hosts an island with snack ledge, cozy dining space, and convenient walk-in pantry. The exceptional second-floor primary bedroom suite includes an extensive walk-in closet and private bath complete with secluded water closet and linen closet. The mud room provides plenty of storage with a closet and additional bench
Camden House PlanCozy, 2 bedroom cottage-style ranch home that encompasses the feeling of a large condo, without the association. A nice foyer opens up to a great living space with a huge, executive-style kitchen with a center island, spacious great room, great dining area. The exceptional primary bedroom suite down the hall offers privacy and an expansive walk-in closet, primary bath, and
This popular traditional two-story home offers 1,870 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a versatile second-floor game room that can be converted to a fourth bedroom. With a layout that balances defined spaces with an easy, natural flow, the home is designed for comfortable everyday living. A dedicated foyer creates a welcoming entry while providing
Bay Harbor House PlanSpectacular open concept two-story home with grand two-story foyer that leads to a dual staircase. Spacious great room gives way to both the den and dining area with large kitchen complete with a conveniently located corner walk-in pantry and island with snack ledge. The large primary suite has a great sitting area, large bathroom and walk-in closet. Appropriately placed
New Construction home in Woodford Farm in Allendale school district. This traditional two-story home offers 1,882 sqft of thoughtfully designed living space with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, blending everyday comfort with timeless style. The great room is positioned at the front of the home, welcoming you in with natural light and a space that feels inviting from the moment you enter. The modern
Centennial Farms – Modern Townhome Living in Allendale, MICALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A SHOWING!We’re happy to accommodate appointments to suit your schedule. Brand-New Townhome-Style Units for RentWelcome to Centennial Farms, a newly developed community in Allendale, MI, featuring spacious 2- and 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome-style units built in 2023-2024. Located next
Living off-campus near Grand Valley State University doesn't mean you'll give up conveniences found on-campus. 48 West offers the very best in comfortable student living with our exceptional amenities, spacious apartments and unbeatable location.From our 20 person hot tub to our resident events, there's always something fun to do at our apartments near GVSU. Because the friendly staff &
Your Life. Your Place. Your Way.At TRIO, we are committed to YOUR LIFE by providing a safe, comfortable, and affordable living experience with apartments designed to fit the needs of every GVSU student.TRIO Townhomes is committed to providing YOUR PLACE. TRIO provides both furnished and unfurnished options and is a pet friendly community. From easy access to the
NOW LEASING! Conifer Creek is a place where you can relax and feel at home. Nestled in a beautiful, naturally wooded setting, Conifer Creek Townhomes offer comfort and privacy with all the modern features expected in today’s student housing communities. Conveniently located near Grand Valley State University, Allendale Campus, Conifer Creek features:- Four private bedrooms and
Ranked #1 Off-Campus Student Housing Property in the NATION in 2020 by J Turner Research with an ORA score of 96. Our off-campus Grand Valley townhomes and apartments in Allendale, Michigan, offer modern amenities, comfort, privacy, and a great location. Meadows Crossing's off-campus, student apartments are conveniently located at the 48th Avenue entrance to Grand Valley State University's
Free internet/wi-fi for one year! Updated, 3-floor townhome in great area. Garden level has bedroom with full bath and laundry. Main floor has eat in kitchen with large living space. Top floor has 2 bedrooms with a full bathroom. Property was built in 2007 by award wining builder. 3 assigned and marked parking spots with unit. 2 bus stops right out front of unit. Gas station with convenience
Spacious 4BR/1BA Home near GVSU Campus in Allendale at 5233 Rich St., Allendale, MI 49401- Spacious open-floor-plan living room with ceiling fan.- 3 carpeted bedrooms and 1 vinyl floor bedroom with walk-in closets in each room.- Full-size bathroom with tub.- Kitchen with provided appliances ( fridge and gas stove/oven), hardwood cabinets, and pantry.-
This is a 4 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathroom (with dual vanities and separate shower room) townhome which includes your own main floor laundry room. Appliances included are washer and dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator, and stove. The monthly rent payment covers the rent payment, waste disposal, parking, high-speed internet, and expanded cable TV. The resident is responsible for gas and
Beautiful upstairs main level duplex in the country! Wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle and rest in a quiet place with plenty of space and fresh air? This is it! Country home, yet close to grocery stores/schools (both Allendale and Coopersville)/the highway/beaches and more! Included in this unit is the full main level. Kitchen, 3 large Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, mud room, shared
This rare find will not last long! This large townhome has a spacious kitchen, washer and dryer in the unit, 4 large bedrooms, and 2 full baths! These are rarely vacant and are a must see! Located just off Lake Michigan Dr. in Allendale, close to GVSU and within 15 minutes of downtown Grand Rapids. All Compass Property Management residents are enrolled in a My Amenities Package for $30
Spacious and updated 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom available for lease in Allendale! This property is walking distance to the Allendale Park and close to many shops, dining and GVSU! No pets. Tenants to pay electric, all other utilities included! Don't miss out on this property - call MI Real Estate Management today to schedule a tour!
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