If you’re considering moving to the Grand Rapids area, you might be wondering if this city is affordable. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Grand Rapids real estate market and how it compares to the rest of the country.
Housing Costs
Housing costs are one of the biggest factors in affordability. In Grand Rapids, the median home price is about $270,113 according to Zillow.com, compared to a national median of $375,000. For renters, the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,230 per month according to data from Apartment Advisor as of January 2025, roughly 12% less than the national average.
The city offers a variety of housing options. Heritage Hill is known for historic homes with unique architecture, while Ada and Cascade feature newer homes with more space. If you want to live closer to downtown, Eastown is popular for its walkability and convenient location. It’s worth noting that Grand Rapids is a competitive market—homes tend to sell quickly, and prices have been steadily rising in recent years. Having someone local to guide you can be a big advantage if you’re looking to buy.
Daily Expenses
Overall, daily expenses in Grand Rapids are manageable. Groceries are about 6% less than the national average: a gallon of milk runs around $3.40, and a loaf of bread costs about $2.60. Gas prices average about $3.40 per gallon, which is on par with the national average. (I know when I was in LA not too long ago, gas prices were almost double that.) Health care costs in Grand Rapids are about 10% lower than the national average, which can be a significant benefit for families and retirees.
Comparing Grand Rapids to Other Midwest Cities
When compared to Detroit, Grand Rapids is about 5% less expensive overall. Housing in Grand Rapids costs about 8% less than in Detroit, making it a strong choice for those who want more value for their investment.
Chicago is another common comparison. Grand Rapids is about 10% less expensive overall, with housing prices nearly 22% lower. Although Chicago has a bigger job market and more city amenities, many people prefer Grand Rapids for its lower cost of living and shorter commutes.
Compared to Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids is slightly more expensive but offers more opportunities and amenities, which often justifies the difference in cost.
Quality of Life
Affordability isn’t the only reason people choose Grand Rapids. The city is home to respected schools and universities such as Grand Valley State and Calvin University. Outdoor areas like Millennium Park and the Kent Trail system are great for walking, biking, and other activities. The job market is diverse, with opportunities in health care, manufacturing, and technology.
Grand Rapids also avoids some of the congestion found in larger cities, making it easier to balance work and personal life. Commuting tends to be shorter here, which is a big plus if you’re not a fan of spending time in traffic.
Conclusion
So, is Grand Rapids affordable? For many, the answer is yes. Housing costs are below the national average, day-to-day expenses are reasonable, and the city offers a high quality of life. Though the market is competitive, a local expert can help you navigate the process and find the right fit.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. What has been your experience with the cost of living in Grand Rapids?