Grand Rapids December 2025 Rental Market Update
Fourth Quarter 2025 Rental Market Trends & Insights
As we wrap up 2025, many landlords share one common goal: fully occupied units with quality residents. This fourth quarter rental market report breaks down what we’re seeing across Grand Rapids and surrounding areas using consistent Zillow data. While no data source is perfect, Zillow provides a reliable benchmark for tracking year-over-year trends.
Units on Market by Month (2024 vs. 2025)
Rental inventory increased significantly in October 2025, with over 800 units listed. This spike aligns with Grand Rapids’ strong college rental cycle, where many leases turn over between September and November.
- October marked the peak for new listings
- November remained elevated
- December inventory declined slightly but remains higher than typical winter levels
This seasonal influx continues to put pressure on pricing and days on market.
Rental Inventory by Zip Code (Last 90 Days)
Top Zip Code for Rental Listings:
- 49504 leads the market with over 500 advertised rentals in the last 90 days
This zip code continues to be the most active rental area in Grand Rapids, which directly impacts competition and pricing strategies for landlords.
Days on Market: Year-Over-Year Comparison
When reviewing days on market based on off-market month:
- January 2025 showed significantly higher days on market than January 2024
- Summer months narrowed the gap
- November 2025: ~32 days vs. November 2024: ~40 days
Internally, we are seeing slightly longer leasing times than last year, largely driven by increased apartment supply.
Rent Reductions: A Growing Trend
Rent reductions became increasingly common throughout 2025:
- July 2025: 22% of listings had at least one rent reduction compared to July 2024 at 25%
- October 2025: Nearly 40% of listings saw a rent reduction
Landlords are adjusting pricing faster and more aggressively than in previous years, often starting lower upfront rather than reducing later.
Rental Rates – Zip Code 49504
Key observations:
- September and October rents remained nearly identical
- November rents increased slightly, likely influenced by higher-priced college rentals
November Averages:
- 2-bedroom apartment: ~$1,522
- 2-bedroom single-family home: ~$1,761
Single-Family Homes vs. Apartments: Days on Market
Single-Family Homes:
- September: ~50 days
- October: ~46 days
- November: Significantly lower
Apartments:
- Still averaging 38+ days on market, though trending downward
Zip Code Spotlight: 49503
Zip code 49503 stands out due to extremely high apartment supply:
Compared to other zip codes, 49503 has a disproportionately high number of one- and two-bedroom apartments, which is contributing to longer days on market and increased concessions.
City-Level Rental Trends
Grand Rapids
- Rents for 2-bedroom units have climbed slightly
- 3-bedroom rents have softened
- 4-bedroom rents increased due to limited supply
- Apartments continue to price lower than single-family homes due to supply pressure
Days on Market:
- Single-family homes: ~30 days in November
- Apartments: 39–41 days in the last 3 months
Wyoming Rental Market
Apartments:
- 1-bedroom: ~$1,000
- 2-bedroom: $1,200–$1,400
- 3-bedroom: ~$1,500+
Days on Market:
- Single-family homes: ~30 days in November
- Apartments: 70–82 days in October and November indicates slower demand
Kentwood Rental Market
- 3-bedroom single-family homes: ~$2,200
- 4-bedroom homes: ~$2,400–$2,600
Apartment inventory is limited, but:
- November apartment days on market dropped to 15 days, signaling strong demand
Days on market is trending up for single family homes and down for apartments.
Market Outlook: What Comes Next?
While Q4 2025 has been challenging, there are reasons for optimism:
- We are past Christmas, when leasing activity typically accelerates
- Average days on Market is currently 54.
- Tax return season (February–March) historically increases renter demand
- More concessions are helping move inventory
That said, competition is fierce. Renters have more choices than ever.
Tips for Landlords in a Competitive Market
- Use high-quality photos
- Write clear, compelling descriptions
- Offer flexible showing times (evenings and weekends)
- Be open to concessions where necessary
Meeting renters where they are is essential in a market with abundant options.
Final Thoughts on the Grand Rapids Rental Market
The fourth quarter of 2025 has proven more difficult than last year, according to both data and conversations with other property managers. However, seasonal demand is expected to return soon.
If you have questions about pricing, leasing strategy, or managing rentals in today’s market, feel free to reach out. If you’re ready for stress-free property management, give us a call at 616-329-6318 or email Jon at jon@simplepmgroup.com. We’re here to help. Contact us today.