Portage Apartments and Rentals

Offering residents a dynamic, fun living environment, the city of Portage sustains a high quality of life with a connection to the natural environment. Located in the center of Kalamazoo County, where the motto is “You’ll be back. We promise,” Portage residents like to stay local and enjoy the hometown feeling. 

The city’s population is approximately 47,000, which helps Portage maintain a quaint environment that is perfect for families both young and old. Rent a Portage apartment, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Great Lakes State.

The southwest region of Michigan was originally inhabited by Potowatami Indians. The first wave of immigrants did not settle in the area because they believed the land was uninhabitable, but when settlers discovered that the rich soil was perfect for cultivating celery, farmers flocked to the area. Until the middle of the 20th century, Portage was a key celery grower, eventually earning the town the nickname of “Celery City.” The city remained a hub of agriculture until after World War II, when it began a quick transformation into modern society. The City of Portage Historic District Commission works to preserve architectural beauty, with more than 30 registered historic properties in town.

Today the city’s official website claims “Portage has shown itself to be the municipal equal to a renewable resource,” which is a testament to the diverse community that has thrived here and continues to grow. The city boasts a very open-minded community, making people from all walks of life feel comfortable while renting Portage apartments.

Portage is located 7 miles from the city of Kalamazoo, home of Western Michigan University, which U.S. News & World Report ranked as one of the top 100 public universities in the country in 2012. Kalamazoo College and Kalamazoo Valley Community College are also in the area, making Portage a lively city with an energetic, young atmosphere.

For those seeking work, southwestern Michigan is home to many Fortune 500 companies. Pfizer, Kellogg and Stryker all have headquarters or regional offices close to Portage, and employ many of the city’s residents. Other popular industries include education, health and social services. A number of people in Portage also make their livings in the manufacturing and retail trade sectors as well as other blue collar occupations.

Living in Portage is very affordable, as residents enjoy the best of southwestern Michigan with a cost of living index score well below that of the average city in the United States. Rent prices are pretty low here too, with U.S. Census Bureau statistics showing the average cost of rent to be $686 a month. That’s $44 less than the state average, making Portage apartments very desirable for people looking to enjoy the serenity of Michigan without paying the price.

Voted the “Best Place to Take Out-Of-Towners,” the largest attraction in Portage is the Air Zoo, which features amusement park rides, flight simulators and an exhibit of rare aircrafts. In the Celery Flats Historical Area, the Stuart Manor hosts several teas every year, each with a different theme ranging from the “100 Year Anniversary of the Titanic” to “Edible Herbs and Flowers.” 

Portage is also home to Art Encounters, a “Festival of Music, Art and Fun for All!” that attracts residents with art demonstrations, interactive arts and crafts and live music from local performers.

Rent.com® can help you get settled in a Portage apartment. Look through our rental listings and find the perfect home for your needs.