Big Rapids, MI
Population 7,847 · Michigan
About Big Rapids, MI
Big Rapids is a small community in Michigan with a population of 7,847 residents. The median household income is $40,197 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Big Rapids is 23 years.
Housing in Big Rapids has a median home value of $134,200 and median monthly rent of $815. Of the 3,347 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 1,127 owner-occupied and 1,669 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Big Rapids is 5.5% and the poverty rate is 35.4%. 28.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Big Rapids, MI
Compared to national averages, Big Rapids has a median household income of $40,197 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $134,200, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $815 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Big Rapids's income is 39% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 27% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Big Rapids, MI?
Big Rapids offers affordable housing with a median home value of $134,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $815/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,197) that falls below the national average. However, Big Rapids’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Big Rapids has a population of 7,847 with a median age of 23 years. Compare Big Rapids with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Big Rapids
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Joseph | 7,805 | $77,765 | $271,100 | Compare |
| Grand Ledge | 7,797 | $66,515 | $189,300 | Compare |
| Three Rivers | 7,936 | $48,852 | $120,200 | Compare |
| St. Johns | 7,712 | $63,030 | $175,300 | Compare |
| Hudsonville | 7,711 | $88,606 | $260,500 | Compare |
| Grand Blanc | 7,995 | $67,284 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Hillsdale | 8,013 | $47,817 | $131,300 | Compare |
| Ludington | 7,664 | $44,471 | $192,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Big Rapids With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Rapids
What is the population of Big Rapids, MI?
The population of Big Rapids, MI is 7,847 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Big Rapids?
The median household income in Big Rapids, MI is $40,197 per year.
What is the median home value in Big Rapids?
The median home value in Big Rapids, MI is $134,200.
What is the average rent in Big Rapids?
The median monthly rent in Big Rapids, MI is $815.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Rapids?
The unemployment rate in Big Rapids, MI is 5.5%.