$762,704Average Value$381Average Price per Sq Ft2Homes For Sale
East Grand Rapids has a feeling of luxury and leisure
Surrounded by the neighborhoods of Grand Rapids, the separate city of East Grand Rapids has long had its own identity. Simply called East by locals, this community got its start as an upscale amusement park on the banks of Reed Lake — a place where people weary of the city would come for a summer retreat. More than 100 years later, that sense of leisure and luxury still remains. East is best-known for its sprawling vintage homes, walkable lakeside downtown and some of the highest-rated schools in Michigan. However, its desirable lifestyle comes at a cost. In addition to high taxes, East Grand Rapids has the most expensive median home price of any city in Kent County.
Find historic homes or more modern construction in East
Most of East’s homes date back to the first half of the 20th century, including brick-sided Colonial Revivals, stone bungalows and half-timbered Tudor Revivals. While many buyers want that historic charm, Dan Steffee, a Realtor with Green Crown Real Estate, who grew up in East Grand Rapids, says that the area has been modernizing. “There’s been an increase in buyers who knock down homes to add new ones or completely renovate the home,” he explains. “It’s evolving to be a lot newer of a community.”
Many homes in East Grand Rapids have large front yards.
The edges of Reeds Lake are lined with large, custom-built homes.
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How prices and property taxes compare to Kent County
The median sale price in East Grand Rapids is around $850,000, more than twice the median of Grand Rapids. You might find smaller ranch-style homes on the city’s south side in the $300,000s and $400,000s, but it’s not common. “You can’t buy much in East for under half a million,” explains Linda Pell, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices with over 25 years of experience. Larger luxury properties can sell for upwards of $3 million. “Especially on the higher end, about 30% of buyers pay in cash,” Pell says. “It’s a very desirable area.”
And it’s not just the high home price tag — property taxes in East Grand Rapids are also among the county’s highest. “East is like its own little world,” says Shuyan Shi, a local Realtor with Success Realty West Michigan. “The property taxes are really high, and the city is really small — so all that funding pours into developing every aspect of life.”
Some of the highest rated schools in the state
A good portion of the city’s taxes go towards funding the school system, so nearly every aspect of East Grand Rapids Public Schools is well supported. It’s one of the highest-rated districts in Michigan, known for both academic achievement and standout extracurriculars. In fact, East Grand Rapids High School has more state championship titles than any other school in the state. With such strong schools, it’s no surprise to find a community that shows up for every game. “I just went to a basketball game at the middle school, and it was so packed I couldn’t find parking,” Pell says. “This is a community that gets together and coalesces around family, and you see that especially at the schools.”
Welcome to East Grand Rapids High School.
The East Grand Rapids schools share many well-maintained sports fields along Reeds Lake.
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Gaslight Village is a walkable community center
Lit by flickering gas lights that give this area its name, Gaslight Village is a quaint shopping center on the banks of Reeds Lake. It’s the heartbeat of the city, with a grocery store, artisan boutiques and plenty of restaurants, all within a few blocks. Grab a bite to eat at:
Rose’s on Reeds Lake: An iconic, historic spot offering waterfront views along Reeds Lake
Bowdie’s Chophouse: A classic, upscale steakhouse with an old-school feel
Olives: A from-scratch, seasonal restaurant known for curated cocktails and elevated comfort food
Jersey Junction: A nostalgic ice cream parlor serving up generous scoops since 1963
Bang Salon is a boutique full-service salon in Gaslight Village.
Kilwins is a go-to destination for anyone looking for chocolates and sweets.
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Plenty of family friendly parks and recreation
With several well-maintained local parks and a jogging trail along the banks of Reeds Lake, it’s easy to stay active in East Grand Rapids. Fishing is popular over at Waterfront Park’s boardwalk, and kayakers push off from John Collins Park’s boat launch. The East Grand Rapids Community Center has classes for all ages and is home to a branch of the Kent Public Library. The entire city has sidewalk-lined streets, making it easy to walk around your neighborhood. “It’s a place where you can let your kid ride their bike a mile over to their friends, and you don’t have to think twice about it,” Steffee says.
Reeds Lake is a popular attraction in East Grand Rapids.
Waterfront Park in East Grand Rapids has lots of great fishing spots.
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Year-round events include a standout Fourth of July show
The city hosts events year-round, including seasonal farmers markets, outdoor concerts and holiday celebrations. But perhaps the city’s best-known event is the Fourth of July Celebration. The all-day summer extravaganza features a parade, carnival activities, food trucks, live music and a bright fireworks display over Reeds Lake.
Residents can enjoy boating on Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids.
Reeds Lake is a popular kayaking and fishing destination.
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Shop close to home or commute 15 minutes to Grand Rapids
You’ve got most of what you need right within the city. In addition to Gaslight Village, there’s plenty of upscale shopping at Breton Village, including an Anthropologie, West Elm and Thyme Fresh Market. There's also Corewell Health’s Blodgett Hospital for healthcare needs. For more city activity, you're only 5 miles away from Downtown Grand Rapids, about a 15-minute car ride.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Tyler Bolduc
Video By
Jacob Branchaud
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Justin Blevins,
an experienced agent in this area.
Agents Specializing in this Area
Jennifer McNamara
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate (Main)
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in East Grand Rapids, MI sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in East Grand Rapids, MI over the last 12 months is $847,500, up 24% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Classic 1924 Alexander McColl brick home blending timeless architecture with modern updates in the heart of East Grand Rapids! This 5 bed, 2.5 bath residence showcases character with a stately brick exterior, charming architectural details, detailed millwork, and gleaming hardwood floors throughout. Quality craftsmanship was not spared, with extensive renovations completed by highly regarded
Turnkey Tudor in the heart of East Grand Rapids, thoughtfully renovated while preserving its original 1920s charm. Rich woodwork and beautifully refinished hardwood floors highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of a bygone era. This home offers 3 bedrooms plus a 4th non-conforming bedroom or office, 2 full baths, and 1 half bath. Newly updated custom kitchen and bathrooms, unfinished walk up
Welcome to 616 Rosewood SE,East Grand Rapids ! Move right into this meticulously maintained fully renovated two story brick home on a quiet one way street . The main floor boasts large living spaces: a family room with fireplace, study/den, sitting room, formal living room, updated kitchen with new appliances, new cabinetry, new sink, a breakfast nook, and formal dining area. Check out a half
Currently under construction and ready for interior design selections! The Carriage Homes of Breton Hamlet have been designed to offer great main floor living with an attention to architecture and interior design. The Carriage Homes include tall ceilings and attractive main floor living spaces with a main floor primary bedroom suite, 2 stall attached garage and private outdoor patios. Located on
Hidden off the road on a rarely available 2.47-acre parcel in East Grand Rapids, this extraordinary private estate offers a rare combination of seclusion, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Originally built in the 1940s and thoughtfully expanded through two extensive additions, the home was envisioned by renowned architect Wayne Visbeen, creating a one-of-a-kind residence rich in architectural
From renowned architect Wallace Frost, these timeless homes are known for light-filled interiors, refined details, and signature elements like curved walls and custom built-ins. Built in 1939, this 5-bedroom, 51⁄2-bath home sits just steps from Gaslight Village, East Grand Rapids High School, and Wealthy Elementary. Formal living and dining rooms anchor the main level, while a private fifth
Classic 1924 Alexander McColl brick home blending timeless architecture with modern updates in the heart of East Grand Rapids! This 5 bed, 2.5 bath residence showcases character with a stately brick exterior, charming architectural details, detailed millwork, and gleaming hardwood floors throughout. Quality craftsmanship was not spared, with extensive renovations completed by highly regarded
$15k in Buyer concessions toward closing closets, prepaids/points. Perfectly located in East Grand Rapids where you are literally just a minute's walk from Eastown or Downtown East Grand Rapids. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath home features an open concept floor plan, including a brand-new custom kitchen with built-in separate refrigerator and freezer, high-end cooktop, wall ovens, quartz countertops, and
Presenting an exceptional opportunity to build on a scale rarely encountered in East Grand Rapids. Lot 5 at the historic Brookby Estate offers a sprawling 1.85-acre canvas, providing a level of space and seclusion that is remarkably hard to find in the heart of the city. This premium home site is defined by its impressive footprint and elevated vistas of Fisk Lake, offering a picturesque water
Presenting a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build your custom estate on a premier 1.24-acre lakefront home site in the heart of East Grand Rapids. Situated adjacent to the historic Brookby Estate, this exclusive parcel offers private, direct access to the serene waters of Fisk Lake, nestled within the original footprint of one of West Michigan's most storied properties. As an exclusive
This 2,000 sq ft East Grand Rapids residence blends timeless style with elevated, modern updates throughout. Designed with an open, airy floor plan, the home is filled with natural light and refined finishes at every turn. The beautifully renovated kitchen showcases crisp white cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances--perfectly suited for both everyday living and
Welcome to 3150 Manhattan Lane, gracefully positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on coveted Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids. This exquisite residence features a thoughtfully refined floor plan with custom millwork, elevated finishes, and sun-drenched interiors that flow effortlessly from one elegant space to the next-framed by breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views of the lake. Now even more
Live in the heart of East Grand Rapids just moments from Gaslight Village and Reeds Lake, with access to top-rated EGR schools and a truly desirable neighborhood setting. This charming 3 bed, 2 bath home blends classic character with thoughtful updates, featuring a welcoming living room with fireplace and built-ins, arched doorways, and abundant natural light. Hardwood floors run throughout,
Charming East Grand Rapids Home in an Unbeatable Location! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering over 1,500 square feet of comfortable living space in the heart of East Grand Rapids. Blending classic character with thoughtful updates, this move-in ready home delivers the perfect combination of charm, convenience, and lifestyle. Inside, you’ll find recently
Prime location in East Grand Rapids that is close to all the attractions in the area. Two units in one building both occupied. The lower is occupied with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath. The upper unit occupied is 2 bedrooms and 1 bath. Lots of parking in front of home and also and also has a garage and additional parking area. A private rear yard can be a great place to relax or entertain. Beautiful
Property Id: 2482021AVAILABLE JULY 1! EAST GRAND RAPIDS SCHOOLS!!! Updated 4 bed, 1.5 bath in the heart of Gaslight Village within walking distance to everything! Garage and off street parking, Washer/Dryer in unit, extra large attic bedroom, and a large backyard--perfect for Michigan summer evenings! More photos available soon. Landlord responsible for water/sewer, snow removal
Rare East Grand Rapids rental. Lower level of duplex, you have the front porch, wood floor living room w/fireplace, wood floor Dining Room, 2 wood floor Bedrooms , 1 Bath, Kitchen w/nook, dishwasher, microwave, new oven, refrigerator , 1 parking space in garage, large basement with washer/dryer, 4 storage racks.Basement has another approx 500sq ft of space in addition to the 1,233
Property Id: 752822Welcome to this 2 bedroom 1 bath duplex. The apartment is a first floor unit. It features central a/c and heat throughout. Hard wood floors across most of the apartment with plenty of windows to allow for natural light. Shared laundry on the first floor with separate access. Street parking available in front of the house. Great location local restaurants, cafes, and
Discover the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and charm in our lovely upstairs duplex unit in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan. This space has been thoughtfully designed to be your serene haven, offering 1,000 square feet of living space that combines functionality with a cozy ambiance. As you enter your new home, you'll be greeted by the natural warmth of wood and laminate
Discover the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and charm in our lovely duplex unit in the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan.This space has been thoughtfully designed to be your serene haven, offering 1,000 square feet of living space that combines functionality with a cozy ambiance. This stylish place is perfect for group trips.As you enter your new home, you'll be greeted by
This three bedroom home that brings you back to the classic days of Grand Rapids Golden Triangle.The home's layout is very simple with restored hardwood floors throughout the living room and dining room. The kitchen is updated with tile flooring, beautiful back splash and stainless steel appliances. The three season porch and backyard maybe the best thing about this classic home. One
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