2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Grand Rapids, MI vs Des Plaines, IL

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Des Plaines older or younger than people in Grand Rapids?
- The Median Age in Des Plaines is 10.8 years older than in Grand Rapids.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Plaines or Grand Rapids?
- Des Plaines housing costs are 7.9% more expensive than Grand Rapids housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Plaines or Grand Rapids?
- The average commute for residents of Des Plaines is 9.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Grand Rapids.

Things to do in Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids, Michigan is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the banks of the Grand River or take a walk through one of the city's beautiful parks. History buffs should check out sites like the Gerald R. Ford Museum to learn more about Grand Rapids' past. Sports fans can catch a game at DeVos Place, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should head to The Shops at Centerpointe or Woodland Mall for good deals on all kinds of items. With its lively atmosphere and exciting activities, Grand Rapids is an amazing destination!

Things to do in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines, Illinois is a vibrant and thriving city located just outside of Chicago. This bustling town offers a unique mix of small town charm and big city energy with plenty of shops, restaurants, parks, and attractions. There are also several concert venues, theatres, and museums to explore while in Des Plaines. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of activities from antiquing to golfing if they're looking for something more active. Whatever you choose to do there's no doubt that Des Plaines will make your stay enjoyable!

 Grand Rapids, MIDes Plaines, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,413329,725,481
 Median Income$55,385  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$247,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.35  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Grand Rapids    62 Reviews

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  More

   |    Reply

Grand Rapids proper - the small city - is fairly OK. Nothing special stands out about it when judged against the nicer areas of the US, but it has some decent dining and  More

   |    Reply

Wow. “bland Rapids and everyone is Smug, uptight and part of the Christian Reformed Church. “ Someone is accurately describing Grand Rapids in 1985. Much has changed  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Grand Rapids

Reviews for Des Plaines    4 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

low  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

The historic center of des plaines is also downtown. Fairly easy commute to Chicago. The metra is right there. Also there is the Des Plaines public library with a great  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

Changing of the seasons is good. But it's too cold for too  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Plaines


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.