Having only been founded two decades prior to the Civil War, Allendale, more formally referred to as Allendale Charter Township, is relatively young in the grand scheme of things, but still offers plenty in the way of easy living.
Allendale is the spot for people in Michigan looking to not be crowded out by other people. With a population density that is the fourth lowest in the entire state, those looking to live nearby the Great Lakes without running into someone every ten seconds have found their home here. Of course, that is if you can survive the sometimes insanely cold weather.
Moving to Allendale
Whether you're in the mood for a studio apartment or something larger, Allendale offers your heart's desire. Unless you desire a date with Julia Roberts. Only Richard Gere can have those, and only in the movies. Other than that, the fact that over 40 percent of all Allendale residents are renters should show just how popular the place is. Plus, you'll be in great renter company!
When to Start Looking
While it's not super hard to find a place in Allendale, it's not as easy as many other places either. It's not that there aren't great places to be had, it's just that people snatch them up relatively quickly. Fortunately for you, it shouldn't take more than two months of searching and checking places out before you find one that suits you. So, what are you still doing here? Start searching!
Best Time to Move
In a word...summer time. Sure, there are no giant festivals or mass influxes of tourists to slow you down the rest of the year, but your stuff could quite literally have icicles on it if you move any other time. With low average temperatures reaching down to 20 degrees during the winter, you'll thank yourself for doing it during the 80 degree average high of summer.
What to Bring
A jacket, and a big one at that. But you're probably more worried about what to bring to get a place. Well, as always, you should come prepared with a security deposit, first and last month's rent, a pet deposit for Fido, and proof of income. This is true whether you're searching for luxury apartments or something simpler. In an area as sought out as Allendale, though, it wouldn't hurt to bring a background check, both credit and criminal, and references from prior landlords. You know, just for extra credit.
Allendale Neighborhoods
Okay, we get it, there's not a bunch of hustle and bustle happening in Allendale, but in reality, that's why over 17,500 people have chosen to make it their home. It's not like you're going to be in the middle of nowhere, though; like anywhere else in America, each neighborhood has its own flair.
Rusk: Those living in the Rusk area have the privilege of living next to the Engine House Museum. If you're not into learning about history, you slacker, you could instead check out the Allendale Civic Center.
Grand Valley State: Like to wear Polo shirts? Then this is your place. Take a few swings over at The Meadows Golf Course if you get bored. Be mindful of your swing, though; the nearby Cook Carillon Tower chimes at each quarter hour. And that, my friends, could totally mess up your follow through.
Town Center: If you're lucky enough to snag one of the property rentals in town center, you're in for a treat. It's adjacent to the Grand River and has stores with everything you could ever need sprinkled throughout.
Living in Allendale
Hurry and find yourself a rental apartment in Allendale! Seriously, you're going to love living there. You're only about 15 minutes from Lake Michigan, but in reality, that's nowhere near the only perk of living here.
Awesome Outdoor Fun
You can camp out at River Pines RV Park and Campground. Don't get flustered you big baby. This isn't exactly roughing it. There's laundry, hayrides, and even hot showers!
Fun in the Sun
Okay, sure, it's still sometimes cold in the sun. You're moving to Michigan for crying out loud, but don't fret. The Bass River Recreational Area means you won't even have to drive the 15 minutes to Lake Michigan to have fun.
Easy to Travel
We know that you might want to get away from the simply living of Allendale every so often. It's peaceful, but too much peace can drive a person nuts. Fortunately, Interstate 96 is less than five minutes away and can open up all of Michigan for you.