Grand Rapids is an exciting city with a unique blend of affordability and urban living. Forget the national median home value of $350,000; here, you'll find a median home value of just $200,000, making homeownership a realistic goal for many. With a remarkable walk score of 98, you can easily access local amenities and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The city offers a quiet environment and good air quality. Grand Rapids is an up-and-coming destination, perfect for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle without the hefty price tag.
From an investment perspective, Grand Rapids offers compelling opportunities. The unemployment rate hovers around 3.9%, slightly above the national average, indicating a stable job market. While the homeownership rate sits at 8%, the low median rent of $1,354 suggests a healthy rental market. The city's safety is another major draw, with a violent crime rate of 4.8 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 18.1 per 1,000 residents, making this a safe place to live. The city is best suited for young professionals, families, and anyone looking for a balanced lifestyle.
The quality of life in Grand Rapids is exceptional. The city boasts an excellent air quality index of 36, and the overall noise level is notably quiet. The city is known for its beautiful parks, art scene, and thriving local businesses. The cost of electricity is 13.7¢/kWh. Whether you're drawn to the city's affordability, walkability, or the sense of community, Grand Rapids offers a compelling package for those seeking a high quality of life.
Median Home Value
$200,000
Median Income
$47,940
Population
198,917
Walk Score
98
Air Quality
AQI 36
Good
Climate Risk
Relatively High
- Population
- 198,917
- Median Age
- N/A
- Median Household Income
- $47,940
36% below nat'l avg
- Bachelor's Degree+
- N/A
- Poverty Rate
- N/A
- Median Home Value
- $200,000
29% below nat'l avg
- Median Rent
- $1,354
16% above nat'l avg
- Homeownership Rate
- 8.0%
88% below nat'l avg
- Affordability Index
- 39
61% below nat'l avg
- Violent Crime Rate
- 4.8 per 1K
30% above nat'l avg
- Property Crime Rate
- 18.1 per 1K
3% above nat'l avg
- AQI
- 36
14% below nat'l avg
- Category
- Good
- Overall Risk
- Relatively High
- Risk Score
- 86.8
Top Hazards
- Overall
- Quiet
- Road Traffic
- 0 dBA
100% below nat'l avg
- Aviation
- 0 dBA
100% below nat'l avg
- Rail
- 0 dBA
100% below nat'l avg
- Electricity Rate
- 13.7¢/kWh
17% below nat'l avg
- Est. Monthly Electric
- $123
10% below nat'l avg
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.9%
5% above nat'l avg
- Poverty Rate
- N/A
Weather & Climate in Grand Rapids
Avg High
59°F
Avg Low
42°F
Annual Rainfall
35.7"
Avg Humidity
71%
Political Landscape
→ Politically stable
Based on Kent County county-level presidential election data
Culture & Things to Do in Grand Rapids
ArtPrize
An open, independently organized art competition held every fall.
Festival of the Arts
A three-day festival featuring art, music, and food.
Grand Rapids Asian-Pacific Festival
A celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures through food, performances, and crafts.
LaughFest
A week-long comedy festival with stand-up, improv, and family-friendly events.