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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.
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.
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.
This stretch south of campus offers a mix of newer apartment complexes and single-family rental homes that are popular with upperclassmen. Rents trend slightly lower here, and the area is convenient for students with cars who want quick access to Meijer and other services.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Big Rapids.
Big Rapids operates the Mecosta County Area Transit (MCAT) system, which provides fixed-route and demand-responsive bus service within the city and to some surrounding areas. Routes are limited in frequency and do not run late at night, making a car or bicycle practical for most daily trips. Ferris State students can ride certain routes at reduced or no cost with a valid student ID.
Much of the Ferris State campus and the adjacent student neighborhoods are walkable, and many students cover their daily campus needs entirely on foot. The city has a modest network of sidewalks and some bike-friendly streets, and bicycles are a popular and practical option for students living within a mile or two of campus. The Muskegon River Trail offers a scenic off-road path for recreational rides through downtown.
Parking in Big Rapids is generally easy and low-cost compared to larger college cities. Most off-campus apartment complexes include dedicated parking for residents, and street parking near campus is available with some permit restrictions during the academic year. Students with cars should check their specific lease and the city permit zone map to avoid tickets near the core campus zone.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
One-bedroom apartments in Big Rapids typically rent for $600 to $900 per month, while shared multi-bedroom units often work out to $400 to $600 per person. Michigan winters mean heating and electric costs can add $80 to $180 per month depending on the property.
Browse student housing near each Big Rapids-area university.