Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Grand Rapids are Millbrook, West Grand Rapids, and Baxter. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Grand Rapids, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 1, 2026, the average rent in Grand Rapids is $1,370, which is 1.6% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Millbrook
Average Rent
$1,248/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.1%
Units Available
14 Rentals
Millbrook is a quiet, suburban neighborhood offering spacious homes and easy access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the peaceful environment and proximity to major shopping centers. The area provides a cozy retreat while still being close to city conveniences.
West Grand Rapids
Average Rent
$1,264/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.5%
Units Available
102 Rentals
West Grand mixes city life and natural beauty. Richmond Park covers 57 acres and provides cross-country skiing trails, hiking and biking trails, and a swimming pool. Renters can choose from a variety of architectural styles, including historic and mid-century homes. Beautiful, affordable, and friendly, renters choosing West Grand enjoy a welcoming community close to everything.
Baxter
Average Rent
$1,311/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
Units Available
12 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Baxter might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,311, while the city’s average stands at $1,370. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.3%. Baxter is near Grand Rapids Public Museum, John Ball Zoo, and Cornerstone University.
Madison Area
Average Rent
$1,338/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
Units Available
31 Rentals
Madison Area is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Madison Area is $1,338 while the city average is $1,370. This is a 0.7% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Grand Rapids Public Museum, Madison Square Shopping Mall, and Seymour Square Shopping Center.
Heritage Hill
Average Rent
$1,380/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.6%
Units Available
15 Rentals
Heritage Hill is one of Grand Rapids' most historic neighborhoods, known for its beautiful, preserved homes and tree-lined streets. Renters will enjoy the proximity to downtown and the historic architecture. The neighborhood is ideal for those who appreciate history and charm in a central location.
Westside Connection
Average Rent
$1,394/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
Units Available
18 Rentals
Westside Connection is a popular neighborhood offering a mix of residential homes and commercial areas with easy access to parks and schools. Renters will enjoy the convenient location near shopping and dining options, as well as the peaceful suburban feel.
Highland Park
Average Rent
$1,418/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.2%
Units Available
14 Rentals
Highland Park is a historic neighborhood featuring tree-lined streets and proximity to local parks and schools. Renters will appreciate the quiet, residential atmosphere and easy access to downtown Grand Rapids.
Northeast Grand Rapids
Average Rent
$1,511/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6%
Units Available
38 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Grand Rapids neighborhood on a budget, check out Northeast Grand Rapids. The average rent is $1,511, compared to the city average of $1,370. Rent prices have increased by 6%. Northeast Grand Rapids is convenient to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, and Cornerstone University.
Midtown Grand Rapids
Average Rent
$1,526/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.7%
Units Available
48 Rentals
Midtown Grand Rapids is an affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids with an average rent price of $1,526. Compare this to the city average of $1,370. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 2.7%. Midtown Grand Rapids provides easy access to Cornerstone University, Calvin College, and Aquinas College.
North Grand Rapids
Average Rent
$1,526/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
Units Available
137 Rentals
North Grand Rapids is filled with museums and historic sites, creating a cozy yet scenic community. The nearby Grand River adds to the area’s natural beauty, as do parks like Wahfield Park and Dwight Lydell Park. While wooded and suburban, North Grand Rapids is close to a variety of shops, restaurants, and the entertainment and businesses in downtown Grand Rapids.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.