Recent statistics indicate that Jenison, an exurban neighborhood of Grand Rapids, is booming. It’s even snagged its title as the second-hottest neighborhood in the United States for 2025. This ranking marks yet another recognition of Jenison’s affordability and high quality of life, which consistently makes it a homebuyer’s dream location. Part of that is driven by a very strong housing demand in their 49428 ZIP code. The region offers predictable property tax rates, highly competitive insurance rates and an enviable labor market.
Jenison’s median sale price is $356,500, which is a 0.2% drop from last year. Houses in Jenison are selling quicker than they were a year ago. This reception to the current fair is a clear indication of a prosperous and dynamic real estate market. Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, noted that “It reflects strong demand. When there are more buyers, and there are sellers, homes sell quicker.”
The area has become increasingly attractive to potential homeowners who are seeking proximity to employment opportunities without the elevated costs typically associated with urban living. Fairweather commented on the changing landscape of desirable neighborhoods: “The South has been the desirable place in previous years because it’s more affordable on the coast, but insurance costs and property taxes have gone up. The Midwest, on the other hand, is characterized by stable insurance costs, stable property taxes and a relatively stable housing market.”
Jenison’s charms include more than just its amenities and praised school system. The suburb is located under 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids. That puts you half an hour or less from the 1,575 miles of beaches that make up Lake Michigan. This unique accessibility gives residents immediate access to the convenience of urban life alongside the beauty of coastal and mountain recreational options.
The pull of suburbanization seems irresistible. Jenison’s retention of extensive open space and desirable employment options set it apart, and have made it a hot spot for home buyers. “It’s a bit more suburban than Manhattan. I think people are looking for that balance of having job opportunities, especially with return to the office, but still wanting more space,” Fairweather explained. Homes in Jenison are hot properties. This trend is a natural consequence of the increasing desirability of suburban communities that remain connected to strong metropolitan areas and labor markets.
Beyond these two metros, the broader Midwest region has shown impressive strength in the housing market so far this year. Fairweather noted, “The Midwest, in general, has been stronger this year because it is one of the few parts of the country that remains affordable.” This kind of stability is in stark contrast to what we’re witnessing in coastal communities where increased insurance rates and property taxes have scared off would-be homebuyers.
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