Loading listings
Student Housing in Big Rapids, MI
About Student Housing in Big Rapids
Big Rapids is a small city of roughly 10,000 residents in Mecosta County, located in the pine and hardwood forests of central Michigan about 60 miles north of Grand Rapids. The city is dominated by Ferris State University, which enrolls a student population nearly equal in size to the permanent local population, making Big Rapids one of Michigan's most distinctly college-oriented communities. The Muskegon River runs through the edge of downtown, providing a scenic backdrop and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and riverside walking trails throughout the warmer months. Michigan Avenue forms the main commercial corridor, with a mix of local restaurants, coffee shops, and small businesses that cater heavily to students and university staff. Winters in Big Rapids are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing from December through February, so students should come prepared for a genuine Michigan winter. The city is quiet and low-key by design, and students who appreciate a tight-knit community with easy access to outdoor recreation typically find it a comfortable place to live.
Best Neighborhoods for Students in Big Rapids
Campus Edge Neighborhood
The blocks immediately surrounding the Ferris State campus are the most sought-after student rental zone, offering very short walks to classrooms, the library, and campus dining. Demand here is highest and properties rent quickly each spring.
Downtown Big Rapids
Centered on Michigan Avenue near the Muskegon River, downtown has a friendly small-town character with local diners, coffee shops, and a farmers market. Students who like a more walkable, community-oriented environment often prefer living in this area.