Welcome to Ada!
Ada, Michigan, is known for its charm and friendly community. Located 15 minutes east of Downtown Grand Rapids, nestled along the Thornapple and Grand Rivers, Ada has elements of historic charm and a thriving business district that is continuing to grow and evolve. From the shops and restaurants in Ada Village, to the parks and trails throughout the Township, Ada offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s so much to love about Ada.
Table of Contents
Day Trip to Ada
Living in Ada
Ada Real Estate Market
Nearby Cities
FAQs
The Perfect Day Trip to Ada
Start your day with breakfast at a local favorite, MudPenny — try a delicious brunch wrap or the fire toast. Once you’re fueled up, it’s time for a caffeine fix at Foxtail Coffee. As you sip your coffee, take a leisurely stroll through the village. Ada Village is the heart of Ada, featuring unique shops like Pursuit for gifts, Croft Haus for stylish clothes and home decor, and Beyond Bill & Paul’s for all your athleisure needs. The village itself is steeped in history, yet it’s been reimagined into a walkable hub that residents and visitors adore.
After a morning of exploring, head up the street for lunch at Schnitz Deli — the Reubens here are a must-try. Across the street, you’ll find Plumfield Books, a quaint spot perfect for a mid-afternoon browse. No visit to Ada is complete without a stop at the historic Ada Covered Bridge. This landmark is more than just a bridge; it’s a slice of Ada’s rich past that’s still standing strong today.
As the day winds down, head over to Myrth for a delicious dinner. You can’t go wrong with any of their delicious wood-fired pizzas or the Spaghetti with kale & walnut pesto. Afterward, take advantage of Ada’s social district and grab a margarita to-go from Luna. For the perfect end to your day, wander down to Legacy Park and relax by the Thornapple River. It’s the kind of peaceful moment that makes you appreciate everything Ada has to offer.
Making it a Longer Stay?
If a day isn’t enough, Ada has plenty to offer for an extended visit. Stay at the brand-new Ada Hotel, which has two fantastic restaurants, Rix and Post Tavern. Plan a stop to the Amy Van Andel Library, this newly built branch of the Kent District Library offers so much more than just books. For those who love the outdoors, take a hike through the scenic Seidman Park, or play a couple games of pickleball at Ada Township Park. For the golfer, head to Quail Ridge Golf Course for a round. If you’re looking to pamper yourself, book a facial at Skin CoLAB. And if your around on a Tuesday, make sure to stop by the local Farmers Market to grab a couple goodies. No matter what your interests are, Ada has something for you!
What Living in Ada is Like
Living in Ada means enjoying a close-knit community. Whether you like being close to the action or having a little a little more space to yourself, Ada offers the best of both worlds. Living close to the Ada Village business district provides convenient access to shopping and dining. Whereas many of the neighborhoods in Ada Township are more spaced out, allowing you some peace and tranquility. While downtown Ada Village is walkable, driving the most practical way to get around the Township as a whole.
Population
The total population in Ada Township is about 14,400. The community is known for being welcoming and friendly. Getting know your neighbors and get involved with the community is easy with Ada’s lively business district and regular town-hosted events.
Cost of Living
With a cost of living that’s 1% less than the national average, but 9% higher than the Michigan average, Ada ranks as the 15th most expensive city in the state. The median household income in Ada is $160,500.
Employment
Ada, Michigan, is home to the corporate headquarters of Amway, employing 3,500 people in the township. Because of its proximity to surrounding cities, many people in Ada commute to Grand Rapids or other areas for work. The unemployment rate is at a low 0.4%, compared to the state of Michigan overall, which is 4.4%.
Education
Ada falls into the Forest Hills School district for K-12 education. This highly rated public school district offers some specialty schools as well including a Spanish immersion elementary school and an environmental school for grades 5 & 6. There are also a variety of private schools including Ada Christian School and St. Robert Catholic School.
The Ada Real Estate Market
As Ada continues to grow, so does the desirability of living there, making the real estate market in Ada highly competitive. The majority of people living in Ada own their home, at a 96% home ownership rate. Home types range from historical houses as well as new condos near the Village, to sprawling riverfront properties and homes with a little more acreage throughout the northern part of the Township. Ada truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a suburban neighborhood, a bustling business district, or a quiet slice of land.
Ada Township Market Stats Summer 2024*
Average Home Price — $631,000
Average Price Per Square Foot — $283
Average Days on Market — 19 days
Interested in buying a house Ada, Michigan? We can help connect you to an incredible Realtor that works in the area. We’re here to help make your move to Ada as smooth as possible!
Nearby Cities & Suburbs
East Grand Rapids
Located to the west of Ada, East Grand Rapids is a suburb of Grand Rapids with a population of about 11,400. Like Ada, EGR features a walkable downtown area with shopping and dining options, called Gaslight Village. East Grand Rapids is home to the beautiful Reeds Lake. Around the lake, and throughout the suburb, there are many upscale homes in EGR, with an average home price of $622,500* as of summer 2024.
Cascade
South of Ada along the Thornapple River, Cascade offers a mix of suburban living with plenty of parks and recreational options. Cascade Charter Township has a population of about 19,600 and about 90% of people own their home in Cascade. The average home value is about $419,800** as of summer 2024.
Lowell
Lowell is charming, small town (population 4127) east of Ada, known for its historic downtown and annual festivals. Similar to Ada, Lowell is known for being a tight-knit community. Located on the outer edge of the Grand Rapids metro area, Lowell has a more rural vibe. Homes are more spaced out here, with an average price of about $390,000* as of Summer 2024.
FAQs About Ada
What county is Ada located in?
Located in Kent County, Michigan, Ada is a suburb of the Grand Rapids Metro area.
How do I find a house in Ada, Michigan?
Contact one of our trusted Treadstone advisors who can guide you through the process with personalized expertise.
Are there any local events or festivals in Ada?
Ada hosts several seasonal community events throughout the year, such as Beers at the Bridge, Music on the Lawn, and weekly Farmers Markets. Check out their website for an event schedule.
How can I stay informed about local news and events in Ada?
Stay informed by checking the Ada Township website, subscribing to local newsletters, and following community social media pages.
Are there any pet-friendly parks or amenities in Ada?
Yes, Ada has several pet-friendly parks, with designated areas for dogs as well as pet-friendly trails and open spaces. Do keep in mind that all Ada Township parks have a leash policy! If you’re looking for an off leash experience for your pup, check out Shaggy Pines with over 20 acres including a swimming pond, sand pile for digging, and self-serve wash stations.
Why are people moving to Ada, Michigan?
Ada is a rapidly growing suburb of Grand Rapids. Since construction began in 2015, the new Ada Village has expanded its retail, dining, residential, and entertainment offerings. With the opening of the new Ada Hotel fall of 2024, Ada has positioned itself as a must-visit destination. This growth of the business district has made Ada a highly desirable place to move to.
*Source: Rockethomes.com as of August 2024
** Source: Niche.com as of August 2024
