Big Rapids is home to Ferris State University and the county seat of Mecosta County. It has a good supply of commercial space, and for many people who live there, an office in town is the obvious choice.
Howard City, about 21 miles south on US-131, is the better fit for a particular kind of Big Rapids professional: one whose work points south.
About 25 minutes down the freeway
Take US-131 south to Exit 118 and follow M-46 east about two miles into the village. In normal conditions the whole trip takes around 25 minutes, all but the last few minutes on the freeway.
When an office in Howard City makes sense
You’re often in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids is about 35 miles south of Howard City, compared with more than 55 from Big Rapids. If you have regular meetings or clients there, an office in Howard City takes about 20 miles off each trip.
Your clients live south of you. Morley, Stanwood, Howard City, Pierson, and Sand Lake are all closer to an office at Exit 118 than to one in Big Rapids.
You want to work away from the campus calendar. Big Rapids changes with the Ferris semesters: move-in weekends, game days, and the quiet of summer. Howard City stays about the same all year.
Who from Big Rapids leases an office
- Remote employees of Grand Rapids companies who live in Big Rapids and want a shorter trip on in-office days
- Advisors and agents whose clients are spread through Mecosta and Montcalm counties
- Small businesses that want an office nearer the middle of the US-131 corridor
When to stay in Big Rapids
If your work is tied to the university, downtown Big Rapids, or clients who live in town, stay close to them. Howard City earns its place only if it shortens the trips you already make.
Next step
Request a tour and let us know you’re coming from Big Rapids. See also office space near Morley and the commuting guide.