$299,444Average Value$203Average Price per Sq Ft14Homes For Sale
Living in the developing neighborhood of Creston
Creston is at the forefront of Grand Rapids' expansion. The once-quiet area is transforming into a trendy neighborhood as the busy corridor of shops and restaurants along Plainfield Avenue continues to grow. Creston may not be as walkable as spots like Eastown or Heritage Hill, but it offers some of the most relatively affordable homes within 3 miles of Downtown Grand Rapids. First-time homebuyers and investors are drawn to the area's historic properties, even as modern apartments rising along Plainfield Avenue set the stage for a high-end future.
Creston is perhaps best known for Plainfield Avenue, a thriving business district.
Brick homes add a historic charm to the Creston neighborhood.
1/2
Relatively affordable housing for Grand Rapids
Creston’s historic streets showcase architecture from the late 1800s through to the mid-1900s. It’s common to see a mix of smaller ranch-style homes, Victorian cottages and Tudor-inspired designs. According to Sarah DeRooy, a Realtor with City2Shore and a native of Grand Rapids, lower prices are the primary draw to the area. “There are typically two types of buyers I see in the Creston neighborhood — first-time homebuyers and investors,” she says. “Because there’s a lower barrier for entry. Investors are starting to see that and purchasing homes to upgrade them.” Investment properties can start in the low $100,000s, while modern construction or remodeled homes can reach up to the mid-$500,000s. The median sale price is around $280,000, significantly lower than nearby neighborhoods like Northview or Grand Rapids Township. In general, as you head north in the Creston area, home prices get higher, and yards get larger.
In Creston, prospective buyers will find large American Foursquare homes.
Tudor-inspired homes with gabled roofs can be spotted in the Creston neighborhood.
1/2
Up-and-coming energy along Plainfield Avenue
Plainfield Avenue is lined with local businesses, restaurants and the family-owned Kingma’s Market, the neighborhood’s beloved grocery store. “When people think of Creston, they usually think of our Plainfield corridor. We like to call it our own microeconomy,” says Gregg Hampshire, the neighborhood association’s executive director. “It’s a very walkable center. You can go get lunch or stop by your dentist and doctor. It’s booming,” he adds. Plainfield Avenue is expected to continue growing in the coming years as several new apartment complexes and ground-floor retail spaces move in. “It’s an up-and-coming area,” DeRooy. “Already over the last 10 years, the area has undergone a dramatic change, all for the better.” Some of the street’s most popular restaurants include Lucy’s for homemade breakfasts and Choo Choo Grill, a staple for burgers since 1946. Café Mamo uses produce from local farmers, and Graydon’s Crossing is a cozy English gastropub. “I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Frosty Boy,” says Hampshire. “People wait an hour to get their ice cream, and it’s somehow worth it.”
The Creston neighborhood is home to Lucy's, serving up some delicious brunch dishes.
Kingma's Market provides the Creston neighborhood with fresh local produce.
1/2
Events planned by the Creston Neighborhood Association
An active neighborhood association helps plan and sponsor community events within the neighborhood, including:
Pancake Brunch: A neighborhood potluck with yard games and craft booths.
Food Truck Fridays: Riverside Park’s summertime concert series and food event.
Creston After Dark: Block party and artisan market hosted by a local arts initiative.
Oktoberfest: A weekend of German beers and live entertainment at Riverside Park.
Lights on Creston: Festive lights, trolley rides and visits with Santa.
Family-friendly amenities at local parks
Creston might not have the family-friendly amenities of upscale neighborhoods like East Grand Rapids, but its recreation spaces often cater to younger kids. There’s a local bowling alley, Northfield Lanes, and the small Van Belkum Branch of the Grand Rapids Public Library. Families may appreciate the splash pad at Aberdeen Park, and children under 17 can get into the Briggs Park Pool for just $1. “I think there’s still more to come for family friendly amenities, the more that demand rises for it,” DeRooy says.
The residents in Creston have access to their own public pool with a waterslide feature.
Aberdeen Park has a splash park for cooling off on a hot summer day.
1/2
Recreation options at Riverside Park and Huff Park
Riverside Park is the largest park in Grand Rapids, with spots for fishing, kayak launching and disc golf along the water. It’s commonly used for festivals and is expected to connect to the citywide Riveredge Trail and White Pine Trail in the next few years. Over at Huff Park, floating boardwalks create a system of walking trails throughout preserved wetlands.
Private and public schools within Creston
The Creston neighborhood is served by Grand Rapids Public Schools, a district that tends to have lower ratings than surrounding suburbs like Forest Hills and Northview. There are still several highly rated options for schools within the neighborhood, including:
City High Middle School: Top-rated, application-only public school with the International Baccalaureate program.
ISJ Academy: Known for its relatively affordable Christian education for students up to eighth grade.
All Saints Academy Lower Campus: Catholic school for kindergarten through second grade.
NorthPointe Christian Elementary and Preschool: Large private school with high ratings and a nearby middle/high school campus.
Wellspring Preparatory High School: Top-rated charter school with standout academics.
Union High School has a total population of around 1,200 students.
Kent Hills Elementary School serves young students in Grand Rapids.
1/2
Quick commutes to downtown with transit access
Downtown Grand Rapids and the city’s well-known Medical Mile are about 3 miles south. DeRooy says that proximity to the city center is likely going to attract medical students and healthcare professionals to Creston’s new apartments in the coming years. A public bus line runs down Plainfield Avenue to downtown in about 20 minutes, and the route into the city is mostly lined with designated bike lanes.
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Creston neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Creston
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Creston Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Creston, Grand Rapids sell after 12 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Creston, Grand Rapids over the last 12 months is $285,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Set on two lots just minutes from Riverside Park, your new home delivers the kind of usable space that buyers in this price range rarely find. This 3 bedroom ranch offers almost 1,400 square feet of functional single level living, two separate one car garages, a dedicated workspace, a shed, and a large horseshoe driveway designed for real life. From the curb, the difference is clear. The home
Move in ready home, with massive 3 stall garage, and a large lot! A rare find that can be used as a single fam residence or 3 unit income property. The upper floor has been fully updated with new flooring, paint, and a renovated bathroom. The spacious main floor offers new flooring, carpet, and fresh paint. Very spacious lower level. Exterior improvements completed in 2024 include full exterior
Great location in desirable Dean Lake Woods, centrally located near shopping, dining, and entertainment in the Knapp's Corner area. This well-maintained end unit features an updated main level bathroom with walk-in tub/shower. Large closets throughout. Newer flooring and a finished lower walkout level complete with a bedroom and full bath. The lower-level full kitchen adds flexibility, perfect
Completely reimagined from top to bottom, 1009 Drexel NE is exactly what you're looking for--every major update already done. Step inside to find a beautiful wood ceiling & new floors flowing through a light-filled living room, where large windows bring in an abundance of natural sunlight. The fully remodeled kitchen & baths deliver a fresh, modern feel, paired seamlessly with all new flooring
Mark Brace
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Michigan Real Estate (Main)
Welcome to 1602 Northbend Dr NE, where simplicity, function, and comfort come together in a thoughtfully designed single-level home. From the moment you step inside, the open floor plan creates an easy, natural flow between the living space and kitchen, perfect for both everyday living and hosting friends and family. The main level offers two well-sized bedrooms, including a primary suite with
Charming and well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2 full bath bungalow located on the desirable NE side of Grand Rapids! As the city of Grand Rapids continues to grow and thrive, this is your opportunity to secure a move-in ready, thoughtfully updated home in a highly sought-after area.Step inside to a warm and inviting living space filled with natural light. The updated kitchen, featuring newer
Charming, affordable, and move-in ready! This inviting 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch offers easy single-level living on a slab foundation with no stairs to worry about. From the moment you arrive, you'll love the great curb appeal and welcoming exterior that makes this home stand out. Inside, enjoy a functional layout with comfortable living spaces, spacious bedrooms, and plenty of natural light. The
Welcome to 25 Palmer St NE in Grand Rapids, a fully remodeled 3 bedroom, 1 full bath home in the popular Creston neighborhood. This move in ready property offers updated interior finishes, quartz countertops, new cabinets and appliances, and a clean refreshed feel throughout. Outside, you'll find a fenced backyard, front deck, and a 1 stall garage for added convenience. Located near Riverside
Spacious NE Grand Rapids 7-bedroom, 3-bath home offering exceptional flexibility and recent updates throughout. All three bathrooms have been remodeled, and the kitchen has been updated for modern living. Conveniently located near highway access for easy commuting. The main floor family room may also function as a formal dining space. Expansive primary suite features a sitting area, reading nook,
Rare opportunity in NE Grand Rapids! Spacious 7-bed, 4.5-bath property with over 4,900+ sq ft on 1.75 acres. Currently set up as a 2-unit, offering incredible flexibility for multi-generational living, house hacking, or a large single-family home. Features include multiple kitchens, expansive living areas, and generous bedroom sizes, along with updated windows, roof, and mechanicals (approx. 3
Explore this versatile investment property in Grand Rapids. This parcel includes a duplex and a fully renovated single-family home. The single-family unit was taken to the studs in 2022, offering new HVAC, central air, updated electrical, plumbing, stainless steel appliance and windows. Currently vacant, it's perfect for an owner-occupant. The duplex is fully rented and includes a 2 bed/2 bath
Welcome to this charming 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with easy access to Riverside Park and just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids! Enjoy relaxing on the charming covered front porch. Inside, the main floor features a spacious open kitchen and dining area with ample cabinet space. The living room boasts a cozy fireplace, beamed ceiling, and convenient main-level laundry, perfectly situated near the
Chelsea BoomgaardColdwell Banker Woodland Schmidt Grand Haven
Welcome to Central Park Place, where a tranquil setting meets the best in modern living. Our one and two bedroom apartments feature a host of amenities that add comfort and style to your interior. Enjoy special touches such as a washer and dryer in every apartment and stainless steel appliance packages available. Prepare a meal in your well-equipped kitchen, complete with a dishwasher and a
Experience a life of elegance and excitement in our new urban community, just north of downtown GR. The Current prepares you for a successful day with modern perks to streamline your schedule and high-end extras to brighten every moment. Our studio, one, and two bedroom apartment homes in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provide the ideal launchpad for you to start and end your day. Whether you?re getting
Welcome to Aspen Lakes, where beautiful landscaping and bountiful amenities meet exceptional service and an ideal location. This community is located on 40 acres of mature landscaping with two lakes. Our apartments offer a host of special features, we even have brand new apartments available! From lake and wooded views to well-equipped kitchens you are sure to find your new home at Aspen Lakes.
Oakview Apartments, nestled among mature oaks and sycamores, offers a peaceful setting with one- and two-bedroom options. Rent includes heat, water, sewer, and trash removal, and each apartment features an open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen. Deluxe units include a washer and dryer, granite countertops, and hardwood floors. Laundry facilities are available on-site. Located in Grand
Welcome to Wyndham Hill, where your ideal Grand Rapids apartment is waiting. Featuring spacious and bright interiors with private patios, walk-in closets, and in-home washers and dryers, as well as an amazing selection of top-tier shared amenities, Wyndham Hill is the perfect place to call home. With our incredible location just minutes from the heart of the city and surrounded by an outstanding
Welcome to 58 Caledonia NE - An opportunity to live in the Creston neighborhood. This 3 Bed, 1 Bath 2 story home boasts gorgeous original details and a large open living space on the first floor! You'll also enjoy the flexible space on the first floor perfect for all your work/learn from home needs and the huge walk in closet upstairs. The large lot has off-street parking with a parking pad
2 bedroom, 1 bath rental on the NE end of Grand Rapids! Upstairs apartment in house converted into two units. Close to downtown with quick access to restaurants, hospitals, etc. with a nice laid back feel; located on a dead-end with very little traffic, large yard, a creek that runs along edge of property and a trail into the woods. Utilities are included, lawn care provided. No pets. Laundry
3 bedroom, 1 bath home with all new flooring and paint. Walking distance to the Creston Business District. Large main-floor bedroom. Dedicated dining room with an open concept kitchen. Two more spacious bedrooms upstairs with bonus room for storage or large closet. Off-street parking. Washer/dryer hookups in the basement. Note: there is an existing washer/dryer that was left by a prior resident
This charming 2-bedroom upper unit is located in the highly sought-after Creston neighborhood, just seconds from downtown Grand Rapids. Filled with natural light, the unit features a spacious living room, brand-new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, and access to a shared backyard. An off-street parking space adds extra convenience.Don’t miss your opportunity to call this inviting
Beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bathroom home on the city's NE side. New floors throughout much of the home gives is a crisp, clean feel. THe three bedrooms are perfect size, and don't forget the formal dining room in addition to a large kitchen. Plus, washer and dryer are available in the basement. Close to the thriving Creston Business District and all of the shops, restaurants and
Introducing our newly remodeled 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath cozy house located in the vibrant city of Grand Rapids, MI. This charming home features modern stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, adding a touch of elegance to your daily routine. . Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home sweet home.To schedule a showing or to apply please visit us at or call
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
