Resident Life
Living in and Around Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, Michigan’s second-largest city, is a vibrant and welcoming community nestled in the heart of West Michigan. Just 30 miles from the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan, it offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
Small Town Feel with Big Amenities
- Enjoy the warmth of tight-knit neighborhoods with strong public schools and a reasonable cost of living.
- Access diverse recreational activities, from scenic landscapes to outdoor adventures.
Dining & Entertainment
- Home to excellent restaurants and a thriving nightlife, including live music venues, comedy clubs, karaoke bars, and theaters hosting top productions like Hamilton and Hadestown.
- Known as ‘Beer City USA’, with 40 breweries in and around the city.
Sports Scene
- Affordable and exciting options for sports fans, including:
- West Michigan Whitecaps (minor league baseball)
- Grand Rapids Griffins (minor league hockey)
- Grand Rapids Gold (G-league basketball)
- Grand Rapids Rise (women’s professional volleyball)
- Nearby collegiate events at Grand Valley State University, Michigan State University, and University of Michigan.
Popular Getaways
Grand Rapids is a hub for exploring Michigan’s diverse attractions:
- Cities: Within three hours, visit Chicago or Detroit for world-class dining, shopping, and pro sports.
- Golf: Play stunning courses like the Ravines Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer.
- Skiing: Hit the slopes at Boyne Mountain, Caberfae, or Crystal Mountain.
- Wine Country: Tour wineries in Traverse City, Old Mission Peninsula, or along the Lake Michigan shore.
- Mackinac Island: A charming, car-free island rich in history and natural beauty.
- Gerald R. Ford International Airport: Easily accessible for nonstop flights to destinations across the U.S.
Whether you’re looking for urban excitement or outdoor serenity, Grand Rapids offers the perfect balance for work and play.
Affordability
Housing prices and cost of living also provide a fair value relative to other locations, especially for the resources and amenities available in the area.
The average rent is about $1,100 per month (with more than 80% of available units ranging from $700 to $1,500), and the median home value averages $250,000. Food costs, restaurant prices and live entertainment are affordable and more accessible than in the larger cities.
Learn more about the area: