COMMENT BY
Blake from Grand Rapids, MI
COMMENT ABOUT PLACE
Grand Rapids, MI
COMMENT
Read for the TRUTH about GR
I've lived in Grand Rapids about 85% of my life and can confidently say it is a great place to live for anyone.
I know countless people who dogged the city, moved away, only to move back a few years later. From places like Chicago, Seattle and Atlanta.
In fact, last census we had a huge influx of people move here from Chicago.
Probably because it's safe, clean, updated, always has a strong economy (even the folks who reviewed GR poorly All say they moved here for a good job), is very family friendly and also has a great singles scene downtown.
There's always something going on downtown every weekend that's fun and often free.
Some people on here talk about the Christian Reformed church. There are churches here yes. Many different kinds. Just like everywhere, but it's never forced on the culture of the city. Plus, though I am not a church going person, I respect and appreciate people of faith. Not a fan of those who don't if I'm honest... So if that's you, maybe try a different city.
But if you like a big small city with incredible Healthcare, good schools and universities (the city high school is best in the state and I think 13th nationally?), then GR Is for you!
The politics are right in the middle with room for all party affiliations.
How do I know this?
Voted for Trump 2016
Voted for Biden 2022
Voted for Snyder for Governor (Republican)
Voted for Whitmer for Governor (Democrat)
Justin Amash was our House Rep.
Then just this week we sent a Democrat to the House.
See what I'm saying here? A very swing city and I dig that!
You should too, because all smart people want to be surrounded by diversity of thought. We are diverse in every way, just look at the stats before you believe anecdotal evidence.
Worried about climate?
Michigan has been labeled a climate refuge. Our weather is only expected to get Better as the climate changes.
Where many places deal with killer tornados, hurricanes and earthquakes, our winters are getting warmer and our hot summers will be the last to be effected.
Anyone else whose lived here for decades will agree that the winters are much much milder now.
And we are surrounded by 80% of the surface freshwater in the USA.
People are nice here. Even freaking Oprah agreed with our label of "West Michigan Nice" when she visited last.
I'm lucky enough to live on a hill overlooking the city and I appreciate it and the people here every day.
So if you are a kind person with a good attitude I would love it if you joined the thousands of people moving here.
Cheers