Cost of living in Big Rapids
Big Rapids, located in Michigan, is a city known for its vibrant community and educational institutions. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Big Rapids, covering essential categories such as dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $14.5 on average, with a range between $9 and $35.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $80, with prices ranging from $60 to $100.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $8, with a range between $8 and $12.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $6 to $8, imported beer $5 to $7, cappuccino $3.5 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.66 and $0.87 per liter, averaging $0.79.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $3.27 and $4.41, with an average price of $3.27.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.79 to $3, averaging $2.7.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.93 to $8.82 per kg, while oranges range from $2.2 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.1 and $4.41 per kg, and lettuce costs $1 to $2.99 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2.5, with a monthly pass priced at $24.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.77 and $1.03 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3, with a cost of $1.55 per km and $26.4 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1000.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $750.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1800.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $1000.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $125 and $290, averaging $172.24.
- Internet - Internet services range from $40 to $130, with an average cost of $62.78.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Big Rapids offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities, with moderate prices in dining and housing.
Transportation costs are low, especially for public transport, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
Grocery prices are reasonable, though some items like local cheese and beef can be on the higher side.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Big Rapids, MI, presents a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and transportation options.
While dining and grocery costs are moderate, residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses found in larger metropolitan areas.
This makes Big Rapids an attractive option for families, students, and professionals seeking a cost-effective living environment.