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North East Citizens Action

North East Citizens Action

Suburban Neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Kent County 49503, 49505, 49525

$330,095 Average Value
$232 Average Price per Sq Ft
8 Homes For Sale

City convenience, suburban-style

North East Citizens Action (NECA) is a suburban community united by one of the largest neighborhood associations in Grand Rapids. Its 11,000 residents live in a wide range of home styles — from apartments to single-family homes to senior living. But one thing that all homes have in common is their natural setting. "It's very, very green here," says Betsy Hernandez, the President of the NECA Association. Hernandez has lived in the neighborhood her whole life and cites the convenient location as a prime reason she's never moved. "I say sometimes that we are Grand Rapids' most hidden gem. People are always surprised by how much this area of town has to offer, but we are 10 minutes away from everything." With a sprawling nature area, a public library, nearby interstates and more grocery stores than anywhere else in the city, NECA certainly lives up to its slogan: "city convenience, suburban-style."
Northeast Grand Rapids, Homes, Lookdown
Northeast Grand Rapids, Homes, Lookdown
Northeast Grand Rapids, Homes
Northeast Grand Rapids, Homes
Many different housing options are in North East Citizens Action, MI.
Many different housing options are in North East Citizens Action, MI.
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Diverse home options with large yards

NECA has a mix of densely populated condos and more classic suburban single-family homes. Condo units range from $200,000 to $400,000, and most single-family homes cost between $200,000 and $600,000. Generally, streets are lined with sidewalks and shaded lawns. The average yard size is a quarter acre, some of the largest available this close to the city. Homes can date back to the 1920s, and a few are still being built today — though the majority are from the 1940s to 1960s. "One thing that makes us unique is how many residents are original homeowners," Hernadez says. "At our association meetings, when I ask how many people have lived here for over 35 years, 80% of the hands go up." But, she adds, the neighborhood has seen an influx of new buyers in recent years. "Since COVID, there's been a shift. We've seen more families and younger people moving in — and the dogs! So many people out walking dogs."
You can find some colonial-style homes in North East Citizens Action.
You can find some colonial-style homes in North East Citizens Action.
Ranchers-style homes are commonly found in North East Citizens Action, MI.
Ranchers-style homes are commonly found in North East Citizens Action, MI.
The North East Citizens Action neighborhood is steadily growing in Grand Rapids, MI.
The North East Citizens Action neighborhood is steadily growing in Grand Rapids, MI.
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Hiking trails and garden plots at Ball Perkins

The neighborhood's only park, Ball Perkins, spans 80 acres of preserved woodland. Its trail network is just over half a mile in one direction and passes through dense clusters of old-growth trees. Smaller trails branch off, encouraging visitors to get lost in this remaining slice of West Michigan woodlands. Wild turkeys, foxes and deer are often sighted and sometimes stray into the neighborhood, thanks to NECA's wooded backyards. "We see deer in our backyard almost every day, even though we have a four-foot fence," Hernadez says. "They just step over it! They do eat my plants, but they are so beautiful to watch." Gardeners can apply for a plot at Perkins Community Garden, also located at Ball Perkins Park.
Residents can enjoy walking the trails at Ball Park in North East Citizens Action.
Residents can enjoy walking the trails at Ball Park in North East Citizens Action.
Ball Park is the perfect place for walking, and jogging in North East Citizens Action, MI.
Ball Park is the perfect place for walking, and jogging in North East Citizens Action, MI.
Residents can learn about nature and its importance at Ball Park in North East Citizens Action.
Residents can learn about nature and its importance at Ball Park in North East Citizens Action.
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Two public school districts and a nearby magnet school

Grand Rapids Public Schools serves most of NECA, but several homes on the eastern edge are zoned for Forest Hills Public Schools. Forest Hills gets an overall A-plus from Niche rating compared to Grand Rapids' overall C-plus. For those within the Grand Rapids boundaries, students attend Kent Hills Elementary and Riverside Middle — both schools rated with a C-minus. Then it's on to Union High School, rated C. Alternatively, students could apply to attend a local magnet school, City Middle High School. The school is ranked the No. 1 best public high school in the Grand Rapids Area by Niche and offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. NECA is also home to the Kent Intermediate School building, which partners with school districts across West Michigan to provide specialty courses for special needs learning, technical certification, and college credit.
Union High School is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Union High School is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
NorthPointe Christian School is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
NorthPointe Christian School is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
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Get involved in NECA's community

The NECA Association (NECAA) was formed in the 1980s and remains an entirely volunteer-run organization with no dues for residents. "We want to preserve our neighborhood and keep it safe and vibrant," says Hernandez, the current president. "We do that by keeping an eye on any development and bringing the community together." Members hand-distribute a biannual newsletter and hold monthly meetings, often at the local Yankee Clipper Library., which also fosters community unity with book clubs, craft workshops and toddler storytime.
The Fulton Street Farmers market is a nearby resource for fresh produce most of the year.
The Fulton Street Farmers market is a nearby resource for fresh produce most of the year.
The Yankee Clipper Branch of the Grand Rapids Library sits on Leonard Ave.
The Yankee Clipper Branch of the Grand Rapids Library sits on Leonard Ave.
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Five miles to downtown and easy interstate access

The Rapid bus line connects from Lenard Street into downtown in about 20 minutes, making it possible to commute to the city activity and healthcare hubs without a car. However, the neighborhood's suburban spot, 5 miles from the city, means most residents run their daily errands by car. The neighborhood is less than a mile from entrances to both Interstate 196 and 96 for longer trips out to the airport or Lake Michigan. Homes with direct proximity to the interstates may experience some background road noise, but generally, the residential areas of NECA are quiet.
North East Citizens Action is a quiet neighborhood in Grand Rapids, MI.
North East Citizens Action is a quiet neighborhood in Grand Rapids, MI.
Meandering roads course through the North East Citizens Action neighborhood.
Meandering roads course through the North East Citizens Action neighborhood.
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A major shopping hub on the northeast side of NECA

On the northeast side of NECA, a major shopping hub surrounds the Knapp and Beltline intersection. Grocery stores include Meijer, Aldi and D&W Fresh Market. The Celebration Cinema is one of the city's largest theaters, offering reclining seats with built-in heaters. There are familiar chains like Panera and IHOP, as well as regional specialties like Bro's Doughs, which has made-to-order donuts. HopCat, a popular Michigan brewery, has a spacious location here, with a comprehensive craft beer selection, hearty burgers and specialty grilled cheeses. HopCat's vintage wooden interior pairs with vivid green walls and a mural made entirely from bottle caps.
Enjoy a night out with friends at HopCat restaurant in North East Citizens Action.
Enjoy a night out with friends at HopCat restaurant in North East Citizens Action.
The Nantucket Baking Company is a Northeast Citizens Action staple for baked goods.
The Nantucket Baking Company is a Northeast Citizens Action staple for baked goods.
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A high concentration of houses of worship and religious schools

Several houses of worship are local to NECA, including several Christian churches and the Sigh Sabha of Grand Rapids, the only Sikh Temple in Grand Rapids. The centrally located Beckwith Hills Christian Reformed Church donated part of its land to NECAA to form the neighborhood's only public playground. And this area is also known for its high concentration of Christian schools. "We don't have a public school located within the neighborhood, so a lot of families tend to move here for the parochial schools," Hernadez says. Among several faith-based elementary and high schools, NorthPointe Christian is ranked among Niche's top 10 Christian high schools in the Grand Rapids area. The neighborhood is also home to Cornerstone University, a private Christian college.
Catherine Lashley
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Catherine Lashley
Tyler Bolduc
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Tyler Bolduc
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Francesco Basti

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
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

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Laura Kelso, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Gerald R Ford International

20 min drive

Bus

Plymouth & Oak Industrial (Nb)

Bus

Celebration Village

Bus

Ball & Kent County Jail (Sb)

Bus

Leonard & Plymouth (Wb)

Bus

Plymouth & Service (Sb)

Bus

Kctc Dr & Leffingwell (Sb)

Bus

Leonard & Leonard Fuller Plaza (Wb)

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime North East Citizens Action US
Homicide 4 4
Sexual Assault 6 4
Assault with Weapon 5 4
Robbery 5 4
Burglary 4 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 4 4
Larceny 4 4
Crime Score 5 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

North East Citizens Action Demographics and Home Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$350,000
Median Sale Price
$349,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$355,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$389,900
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Last 12 months Home Sales
191
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
8%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$232

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,629
Number of Homes for Sale
8
Median Year Built
2023
Months of Supply
0.50
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,597
Below the national average
1,933
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,213
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
7,840

Open Houses

  • Sunday, Jun 15
    1 - 3pm

    2235 Watertown Way, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

    $404,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,505 Sq Ft
    • 2235 Watertown Way

    A Modern Living Experience in a Prime Location! This stunning end-unit townhome offers over 2,000 sq. ft. of beautifully finished living space, featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, and convenient upstairs laundry. The fully finished walkout lower level offers living space on all levels. Crafted with quality and attention to detail, this home combines modern design with functionality. The

    Wyatt Martin Greenridge Realty (EGR)

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  • Sunday, Jun 15
    1 - 3pm

    2275 Watertown Way, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

    $422,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,089 Sq Ft
    • 2275 Watertown Way

    Welcome to Viridian Place, conveniently situated just minutes away from Knapp's Corners, the Medical Mile, and Downtown Grand Rapids. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and boasting high-quality construction throughout, this main floor ranch condo offers an open and energy-efficient living space with 9-foot ceilings and an abundance of natural light. This three bedroom, three bath unit

    Wyatt Martin Greenridge Realty (EGR)

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  • Sunday, Jun 15
    1 - 3pm

    2254 Watertown Way, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

    $429,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 3.5 Baths
    • 2,069 Sq Ft
    • 2254 Watertown Way

    A Modern Living Experience in a Prime Location! This stunning end-unit townhome offers over 2,000 sq. ft. of beautifully finished living space, featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, and convenient upstairs laundry. The fully finished walkout lower level offers living space on all levels. Crafted with quality and attention to detail, this home combines modern design with functionality. The

    Wyatt Martin Greenridge Realty (EGR)

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Laura Kelso, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
9,956
Median Age
38
Population Density
3 ppl/acre
Population under 18
22.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
19.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$52,378
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$74,530

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
90.7%
College Graduates
40.8%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
12.9%
% Population in Labor Force
54.7%
Below the national average
65.1%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
39''
Average Winter Low Temperature
19°F
Average Summer High Temperature
83°F
Annual Snowfall
46''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®

17 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

13 / 100

Some Transit

Transit Score®

27 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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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.
NEIGHBORHOOD
North East Citizens Action
Laura Kelso
Kelso Homes LLC
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