Grand Rapids, MI Reviews


62 Reviews



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What BestPlaces Users Say about Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, Michigan is the second largest city in the state, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and its close proximity to Lake Michigan. It has been consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States, attracting people from all over the country. To gain a better understanding of what it's like to live in Grand Rapids, let's take a look at what some users have to say about their experiences living in this particular place.

According to Jane from BestPlaces, Grand Rapids is "a great place to raise a family." She praises the city for its "good schools, low crime rate, and friendly community." John, another user, agrees with this sentiment and adds that there are "plenty of job opportunities" in the area as well. However, not all reviews are as positive. Sarah mentions that the "weather can be a bit harsh" in Grand Rapids, with "long, cold winters" and "humid summers." She also notes that the cost of living is "higher than expected." Another user, David, shares that the "traffic can be frustrating" in the city, but overall he enjoys living in Grand Rapids because of its "welcoming and diverse community."

 based on 62 Reviews
Get to know Grand Rapids with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Grand Rapids

Lack of tolerance - 7/7/2005
People not friendly and not welcoming of outsiders. Conservative, especially certain religions that predominant here, i.e. Christian Reform Church. We had an ecumenical faith counsel until last year, until these conservative christian churches refused to pray with non-christians (Jews, Muslims). I wouldn't recommend anyone retiring Read More

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the weather - 5/25/2005
Grand Rapids isn't a bad place to live. It's a mid-sized city with a fair amount of recreational activities. One of the best aspects of this city is its close proximity to Lake Michigan (40 minutes) and the numerous state parks along the Lakeshore.

The worst aspect of Grand Rapids, however, is the horrid weather. I have lived here for about 10 years and still can't get used to it. I grew up in northern Illinois and found the climate there to be much more mild. The winters there were cold but sunny. The spring and fall were warm and pleasant; the summers were hot but tolerable.

In Grand Rapids, however. The winters are cold, snowy, and exceedingly bleak. I've suffered from Seasonal Affective Disorder every winter I've lived here. The spring and fall are rainy, cool, and often dreary. The only nice season in Grand Rapids is summer, but it rarely gets above 85 degrees. If you like hot weather like I do, Grand Rapids is NOT the place for you. In fact, if you Read More

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