The River City, In the Palm of Your Hand

On the classic Michigan Hand Map, Grand Rapids is located roughly in the middle of the right hand, between the ring finger and pinkie. If you don't know about the Hand Map, and you're considering a move to the great state of Michigan, we suggest you get to know it ASAP. Believe it or not, Michiganders really do often utilize these “handy” bodily maps as visual aids. So, what's so great about living in this part of the north paw? Plenty, actually. Cultural opportunities abound, commutes are a cinch, public spaces are ample, the beaches of that one really big lake are just 30 minutes away and, most importantly, the local beer is good. For a 10 minute tour of the city and a peek at nearly 3,000 of its inhabitants, just watch Rob Bliss' world record-breaking <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPjjZCO67WI" title="Lip Dub video">Lip Dub video</a>.

With average winter low temps hovering around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, living in Grand Rapids pretty much requires a car. With snow tires. GR does offer reliable (and cheap) public transportation around downtown and between suburbs via The Rapid and Dash systems.

Weather

Lifestyle considerations may prove to be a deal-breaker or maker for some house-hunters. While Grand Rapids is widely considered to be an 'up and coming' American community, it's not exactly a world capitol, so competition for vacant units is usually a non-issue. Investigate GR's neighborhoods, and take it from there.

Finding Your Niche

Grand Rapids is basically divided into four sections, NE, NW, SE and SW:Southeast: This area has a variety of housing options.Northeast: Includes the areas of Rockford and Kent county, and holds a plethora of hiking, biking and golfing opportunities.Southwest: Composed of the suburbs of Wyoming, Grandville and Byron Center, this area is known fo– Hey! Look at that giant mall!Northwest: A more rural area.

A River Runs Through It

EastownEastown, so hot right now . . . Eastown. GR's most happening 'hood offers everything you need to get through your day: art galleries, bookstores, a legendary breakfast spot, dive bars, coffee and hot yoga. Located just 5 minutes east of downtown Grand Rapids, snaggable rentals include townhomes, mid-rise apartments and second floor apartments.Heritage HillFounded in 1848 (hence the name) Heritage Hills' rental inventory consists primarily of old, stately manors carved into apartments, and single-family homes. By the way, the whole freakin' neighborhood is on the National Register of Historic Places.Belknap LookoutThe Lookout has a diverse selection of rentals. The farther east you go, the nicer it gets.HeartsideThis neighborhood is smack in the center of town, and somewhat of an ongoing project. A recently opened farmers market and nightlife district and the assortment of LEED-certified apartment buildings.Grand Rapids is, quite simply, an extremely friendly place to live, if you didn’t notice from the lip dub. It offer a vibrant downtown, cool neighborhood shopping districts, and green development plans. So here’s a final insider tip for you, go out and buy a jacket, you don’t want to miss the boat on this one. Hurry and find your rental – before global warming ruins your chances!

Breaking it Down

noun

rentals available

Kent County

Swan

West Grand

1 Bedroom Apartments in Grand Rapids

adjective

Grand Rapids Furnished Apartments

Grand Rapids Luxury Apartments

Grand Rapids Short-term Apartments

Grand Rapids Community College

Aquinas College

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo College

Cornerstone University

Fast-growing Grand Rapids combines cosmopolitan amenities with small-town safety and friendliness

Grand Rapids

Great for business and tech, Ohio's capital has beautiful apartments for every budget

Columbus

Find top apartments for rent with move-in specials in Grand Rapids, MI! Apartment List's personalized search, up-to-date prices, and photos make your apartment search easy.

Apartments Near Me

Apartments in Popular Cities

Cost of Living Calculator

Rent Calculator

Renter Life Blog

A-List Smart Platform

A-List Market

A-List Nurture

A-List Resident

Research & Rental Tools

Rental Management Blog

Apartments for Rent in Grand Rapids, MI with Move-in Specials

More Rental Options