2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Lake Forest, IL vs Grand Rapids, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Grand Rapids older or younger than people in Lake Forest?
- The Median Age in Grand Rapids is 14.9 years younger than in Lake Forest.

Are housing costs cheaper in Grand Rapids or Lake Forest?
- Grand Rapids housing costs are 72.4% less expensive than Lake Forest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Grand Rapids or Lake Forest?
- The average commute for residents of Grand Rapids is 11.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Lake Forest.

Things to do in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest, Illinois is a vibrant city located in Lake County. With its many shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking an enjoyable night out or a fun day of shopping. For outdoor fans, Lake Forest offers beautiful parks and trails, plus beaches along the shore of Lake Michigan. Families looking to move to the area can rest assured that there are multiple schools with outstanding educational programs. Lake Forest has something to offer everyone — whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a great place to live.

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!

 Lake Forest, ILGrand Rapids, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock197,858329,725,481
 Median Income$194,267  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$898,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.2  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Lake Forest    4 Reviews

We relocated cross county to Lake Forest about a year ago due to a job change. We looked at nearby communities, within proximity of the work commute (the office is in  More

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Be prepared for a so called upscale town with entitled, overpaid, snooty people from teenagers who sneer at you to adults who look you up and down, who make demands on a  More

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Over 15 years ago

Long cold winters, short cold springs, hot humid summers, nice  More

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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

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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

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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

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