Strong job market supported by healthcare, manufacturing, and tech
Easy access to parks, trails, and Lake Michigan day trips
Walkable downtown with restaurants, local shops, and breweries
Reliable cost of living compared with other Midwest cities
Steady real estate market with properties that retain value
Active arts and music community
Year round events including ArtPrize, concerts, and outdoor festivals
Grand Rapids is a mid sized Michigan city known for steady growth, a practical cost of living, and a community that values local business and outdoor recreation. Residents appreciate how simple it is to get across town, the range of job opportunities, and the ability to enjoy both city conveniences and quick access to nature. The city appeals to young professionals, families, and long time locals who want a place that is manageable, active, and stable.
The Grand Rapids housing market is known for consistency and demand from buyers who value affordability and convenience. Prices have risen over the past several years without sharp swings, which appeals to homeowners looking for stable long term equity. Inventory varies by neighborhood, but well kept homes often sell quickly due to strong local interest and frequent relocations tied to healthcare and university employment.
You will find classic early 20th century homes in areas closer to downtown, including Heritage Hill and Eastown. These neighborhoods offer older properties with established streets, front porches, and walkable access to shops and restaurants. Many homes have been updated while keeping original details. Buyers who want character and a central location often look here first.
Suburban style options appear as you move outward. Neighborhoods such as Alger Heights, Creston, and Northview offer mid century and later construction with practical layouts, garages, and larger yards. These areas attract buyers who want more interior space and quieter residential streets while staying close to core amenities.
Newer developments can be found on the city edges and in nearby suburbs such as Wyoming, Kentwood, and Grandville. These properties appeal to buyers who prefer more recent construction, open floor plans, and lower maintenance living. Condos and townhomes are also available throughout the metro, often drawing first time buyers and downsizers.
Competition can vary by season, but well priced homes tend to move fast. Buyers should be prepared with pre approval and a clear understanding of neighborhood priorities. Sellers benefit from steady demand and a pool of qualified buyers who are motivated by the city’s employment base and quality of life.
377,980 people live in Grand Rapids, where the median age is 34.4 and the average individual income is $38,700.517. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Grand Rapids, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Taqueria Chilango, Koeze, and Rakowski Family Farm Market.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 1.49 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$$ | 3.76 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.66 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 3.61 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 0.61 miles | 22 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 1.69 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.56 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.57 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.24 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.83 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.9 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.46 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.61 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.04 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.64 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Grand Rapids has 150,052 households, with an average household size of 29.45. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Grand Rapids do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 377,980 people call Grand Rapids home. The population density is 3,477.892 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
Ready to buy, sell, or explore VA home loan options in West Michigan? Contact Leiter Home Group today—our team is here to guide you with expertise, care, and dedication.