2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Portage, MI vs Big Rapids, MI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Big Rapids older or younger than people in Portage?
- The Median Age in Big Rapids is 15.0 years younger than in Portage.

Are housing costs cheaper in Big Rapids or Portage?
- Big Rapids housing costs are 28.2% less expensive than Portage housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Big Rapids or Portage?
- The average commute for residents of Big Rapids is 5.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Portage.

Things to do in Portage?
Portage, MI is a peaceful community located in Kalamazoo County near Lake Michigan. Home to numerous parks and recreational areas including Celery Flats Historical Area and Portage Creek Bicentennial Park, Portage provides its residents with plenty of outdoor resources perfect for activities like disc golfing at Milham Park Golf Course or fishing on Pigeon River Country State Game Area. In addition, there are many restaurants, unique shops and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for rural serenity or just want easy access to nearby cities — Portage has something for everyone!

Things to do in Big Rapids?
Big Rapids is a city situated within Mecosta County Michigan boasting approximately 11 thousand people. Here you can find lots to do as well - from exploring nearby state parks like Hemlock Park for recreational activities like mountain biking or snowmobiling to perusing through its many unique shops that allow you to get your own piece of this vibrant spot; plus there’s also plenty of cultural attractions too!

 Portage, MIBig Rapids, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock9,105329,725,481
 Median Income$68,755  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock2238.4
 Avg. Home Price$252,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portage    3 Reviews

I'm just writing because I think that the people who are in my opinion bashing Kalamazoo, really don't know anything about it. I have vacationed in much larger cities,  More

   |    Reply

Before I moved to Portage in 2007, I didn't have any real breathing problems. I had a minor case of hay fever. I moved here and I am stuck inside most of the summer  More

   |    Reply

Over 20 years ago

Portage is a nice palce to live and raise a family. I don't think it would be a good place for a single  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portage

Reviews for Big Rapids    0 Reviews

Start Your Review of Big Rapids


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.