Living in Grand Rapids, MI

Are you considering a move to Grand Rapids, MI? Make sure you know these 7 things about living in Grand Rapids, MI. 

Considered to be one of the best places to live in the U.S., Grand Rapids is home to 197,416 residents who love to call this city their home. This city is the second largest city in Michigan and is located on the banks of the Grand River that goes all the way through downtown. Grand Rapids is also known as "Beer City" because of its renowned craft beer scene. 

Whether you are interested in excellent jobs, educational opportunities, and affordable housing, Grand Rapids has it all and is a young city on the rise. Not only does this city offer a low cost of living, but it also gives you the small-town feeling of the big city. This metro area has a lot to offer its residents, no matter your lifestyle or preferences. 

Grand Rapids ranks high on many levels, especially beauty and affordability. In March, this city ranked number 2 on the list of the 10 most beautiful and affordable places to live in the United States. So, if you are looking for a place to move to that is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, you have found your place. Keep on reading to learn more about this beautiful city in the state of Michigan. 

Here are the 7 things that you need to know about life in Grand Rapids!

Cost of Living

Grand Rapids' cost of living is 5 percent lower than the national average, according to Payscale. Breaking this number down into categories: housing expenses are 15 percent lower than the national average, utility prices are 3 percent higher, transportation like bus fares and gas prices are 1 percent higher, grocery prices are 8 percent lower, and healthcare costs are 5 percent lower than the national average. 

When it comes down to the cost of living, you do have to remember that transportation, food, utilities, and other everyday expenses go into that number. Thankfully, Grand Rapids does have affordable living so those everyday expenses will be cheaper than the national average. 

Keep in mind, though, that these are not fixed numbers for the cost of living but are averages. The cost of living will vary depending on your living situation, the size of the family, the location of the home, and many other aspects, so use these numbers as a base rather than fixed. Check out the cost of living in Michigan to compare numbers as well. Below are some common cost of living aspects. 

Real Estate

The housing costs in Grand Rapids are overall 15 percent lower than the national average, according to Payscale. The housing market here is considered to be somewhat competitive, and on average, homes stay on the market for about 31 days.

Since last year, this city has been a seller's market which means prices will tend to be higher and homes will sell faster, so if you are on the search for a home, you need to be competitive. Homes values over the past year have gone up about 17 percent and are on the rise at the moment. 

However, do keep in mind also that the real estate market is subject to change and that numbers and listings will vary, so if you are interested in moving to Grand Rapids and the real estate listing, working with a real estate agent is recommended. 

If you are interested in a move to Grand Rapids, you should check out new construction homes, luxury homes, condos, and single-family homes for sale in Grand Rapids. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to their homes, so check out different homes for sale in the area so you can find what fits perfectly for you. Check out the best places to live in Grand Rapids and moving to Sterling Heights to figure out what location is best for you!

Weather

In Grand Rapids, the winters are freezing, snowy, winder, and long while the summers are considered to be warm with partly cloudy skies. Over the year, the temperature will vary from 18 degrees Fahrenheit to 83 degrees Fahrenheit and is rarely below 3 degrees Fahrenheit or even above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month here will be in January, and the warmest month will be in July. If you are a person who likes colder weather, this place may be perfect for you. 

According to the US Climate Data, the average annual precipitation fall is 38.37 inches, and the average annual snowfall is 76 inches. Living here, you need to be ready for the long cold winters ahead and make sure you have all the snow gear ready for the beautiful snowfall! If you are a person who loves the snow, this city is a perfect location for you. 

Education

Schools in Grand Rapids have an average ranking go 7/10, which is the top 50 percent of Michigan public schools. The Grand Rapids school district is the 8th largest school district in Michigan and serves 40 plus schools. Grad rates here increase annually and are considered to be above the state average. For more than 150 years, Grand Rapid Public Schools has been the leader in West Michigan. 

Grand Rapids is also a college town. There are at least 15 institutions of higher education in the metro area. This offers a diverse selection of college experiences; whether you are looking for state universities, private colleges, Christan colleges, and one of the best community colleges, they have it. Even though this city is located around many colleges, it has been known to be a very safe, clean, and friendly city and one of the best places to raise a family. 

Below are a few of the best schools in Grand Rapids!

Crime Rates

Grand Rapids' total crime index is 7, which means that it's safer than 7 percent of U.S. neighborhoods. The violent crime rate and property crime rates were lower than the national average rate. Overall, the crime rate in Grand Rapids is 8 per 1,000 residents during the whole year. People who live here do say that the Eastern part of the city is considered to be the safer side.   

Finding a place where you can feel safe in your own home is very important. Moving to Michigan, in general, you will find many different diverse communities. Every area has its downfalls, and crime will follow you everywhere, no matter the location. Finding the best neighborhood to live in is very important as well. Here in Grand Rapids, you will feel safe where you are, especially when comparing it to metro cities like it.

Dining

Grand Rapids has diverse dining options with a wide range of preferences. Whether you are looking for craft breweries, locally fresh food, or even a quick bite, they have it. Since this city is known as the Beer City, it is home to many popular breweries while also a bustling downtown that offers many various dining options. Below are a few local favorites for dining in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 

Butcher's Union - $$

438 Bridge Sta NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

This is a modern gastropub with a meat-heavy menu of locally inspired fare while also they offer over 100 plus whiskeys and craft beer. You can view their waitlist online before visiting as well!

Leo's Seafood Restaurant and Bar - $$$

60 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

This is a seafood restaurant that is artfully presented in a dining room that boasts soaring ceilings and romantic lighting. This place is more on the pricey side as well. You can reserve a table ahead of time online. 

The Chop House Grand Rapids - $$$$

190 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

This is a steakhouse that is a plush chophouse with elegant gas lamps offering premium beef and wines, plus delicious desserts. You are also allowed to reserve a table ahead of time through their website!

These are just a few of the most popular places in Grand Rapids. The list of dining options will go on forever. At least living here or even visiting, you will have various options on where to go out to eat!

Job Market

The average annual salary in Grand Rapids is $52,660, which is just a little under the national average. The unemployment rate last year was about 8 percent which is around what the national average was as well. However, when comparing Grand Rapids to other metro areas, it does not have as great of a job market as the others. 

Although education is a dominant sector in this area, it does offer many jobs for people who are searching for occupations in education; there are so many large healthcare sectors, administrative and distributive jobs, and many manufacturing jobs. Every city has a lot to offer its residents when it comes to a job; however, every city also does have its strengths and weaknesses for each sector. 

Moving somewhere new means finding a job, and that is usually the first step for most people. Here in Grand Rapids, you will find many employment options; if you do not find what you are searching for, there are other cities surrounding this city that may have what is perfect for you!

Pros and Cons of Moving to Grand Rapids, MI

Pros:

• Low cost of living
• Excellent education
• Stable economy
• Unique food options
• Lots of employment opportunities

Cons:

• Hard winters
• Higher crime rates
• Lack of diversity
• Dense population

FAQs - Moving to Grand Rapids

What is Grand Rapids known for?

The city of Grand Rapids is known for many things: furniture, beer, and the river. 

Why move to Grand Rapids, Michigan?

This city has a neighborly atmosphere wherever you go. It also has a very diverse, close-knit community while also offering so much to its residents. Can't forget, it was ranked #34 for 150 Top Places to Live in the United States.

Are a lot of people moving to Grand Rapids?

Grand Rapid's population has been shown to be booming, and the area overall grew by about 100,000 between 2010 and 2020, with an increase of 8 percent. 

What are the benefits of living in Grand Rapids, Michigan?

Overall, a few benefits will e the booming economy, low cost of living, diverse dining options, great schools, and low housing costs. This city has it all!

Moving to Grand Rapids, MI - The Bottom Line

Grand Rapids ranks high on many levels, especially beauty and affordability. Whether you are interested in excellent jobs, educational opportunities, and affordable housing, Grand Rapids has it all and is a young city on the rise. Not only does this city offer a low cost of living, but it also gives you the small-town feeling of the big city. 

Besides the vibrant scenery that Grand Rapids does offer, it also has a friendly community with natural beauty as well. This metro city has it all, no matter your preference or lifestyle, so if you are looking for the best places to live in Michigan, this city may be one of them. Do not miss out on all Grand Rapids has to offer.

If you are interested in moving to Grand Rapids, then please get in touch with us here so we can connect you with one of our Realty Specialists to help make your transition for you go smoothly. We are here to help you find the perfect home for you, so do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Contact us here today for any questions or help!