Your Guide to Living in Grand Rapids, MI

he Grand Rapids skyline as seen at dusk.

Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a vibrant city on the banks of the Grand River, known for its rich history, art scene, and welcoming community. If you’re considering moving or simply curious about more you can do in the city, you’ve come to the right place.

This guide will explore the essentials of living in Grand Rapids, MI, touching on the cost of living, the best neighborhoods, things to do, and the local job market.

Why Choose Grand Rapids, Michigan?

Living in Grand Rapids, MI, is great for individuals and families looking for a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city stands out for its affordability, especially compared to other cities across the United States.

Cost of Living

When it comes to the cost of living, Grand Rapids is notably lower than the national average. Housing costs are the most appealing regarding the cost of living. Buyers and renters have various housing options, including historic homes and modern apartments.

In addition to housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation are also affordable. All of these variables contribute to the affordability of the city.

Best Neighborhoods

Quaint old homes line a tree-shaded street in an older neighborhood.

Choosing the best neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is important for your fulfillment in your area. Depending on your lifestyle, you have many options for the types of neighborhoods in this city. Some of the neighborhoods worth considering include:

  • East Grand Rapids: This area is known for its excellent schools and beautiful homes. It is also close to Reeds Lake, a beautiful area to enjoy in the warmer months. East Grand Rapids is wonderful for families because of its top-quality schools.
  • Heritage Hill: If you appreciate a more historical area, Heritage Hill might be the right neighborhood for you. Many of the buildings have stunning architecture. The community is very tight-knit, so it would be a great place to meet others.
  • Midtown: This area is perfect for those who love to be in the heart of the city. Midtown offers great places for shopping and restaurants. There are also many entertainment options to enjoy.

Regardless of the neighborhood you choose, you will feel a welcoming presence.

Things to Do

When you move to or live in Grand Rapids, you won’t ever run out of things to do. It is an active place that has something enjoyable for everyone.

Things to do in Grand Rapids, Michigan, include:

  • Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: View modern sculptures in their beautiful botanical garden, which features many sculptures and exotic plants.
  • John Ball Zoo: This zoo features over 2,000 animals, including lions, bears, chimpanzees, and tigers.
  • Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: If you have children, this museum offers a place for hands-on learning with permanent and changing exhibits.

You can find something you enjoy in this town, regardless of your age.

Job Industries

The local economy in Grand Rapids is robust. There are strong sectors in healthcare, manufacturing, and education. This city is the home to several large companies, including Spectrum Health and Meijer. Many employment opportunities come from these large companies. These job markets, the tech and creative industries are on the rise. With all of these opportunities, Grand Rapids is a promising place for professionals in many fields.

Living in Grand Rapids

Log balanced on top of a dam in Grand Rapids.

Grand Rapids is a city that offers affordable living with many professional opportunities. Whether you enjoy friendly neighborhoods or the arts scene, Grand Rapids has something to offer everyone.

By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision about making Grand Rapids your new home

ClearHome Storage Can Help With Your Move

If you want to move to Grand Rapids, we can help! While we don’t have storage locations directly in Grand Rapids, we have two locations that are close by. Choose from our Comstock Park or Rockford location to store your items before, during, or after your move. Utilizing a storage unit can make moving a breeze.

Our storage units offer the following amenities:

  • Climate control so your items are protected from the elements
  • Secure storage facilities
  • Drive up units so you can easily access your belongings
  • Month-to-month leasing options
  • Covered parking

If you want to reserve your storage unit today or have questions you need answered, contact us. We can answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to get set up with your self-storage unit. Our team can quickly get you set up to rent a self-storage unit and help you find the right unit for your needs.

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