2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Rochester, MI vs Grand Rapids, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Grand Rapids older or younger than people in Rochester?
- The Median Age in Grand Rapids is 7.9 years younger than in Rochester.

Are housing costs cheaper in Grand Rapids or Rochester?
- Grand Rapids housing costs are 41.1% less expensive than Rochester housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Grand Rapids or Rochester?
- The average commute for residents of Grand Rapids is 8.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Rochester.

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, MI is a small city located in Oakland County, just north of Detroit. It is home to 8,000 residents who enjoy its many parks and recreational facilities as well as nearby lakes and rivers. The city is also known for its historic downtown business district with unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

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!

 Rochester, MIGrand Rapids, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock197,858329,725,481
 Median Income$100,021  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$420,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.86  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Rochester    2 Reviews

Over 14 years ago

The winters are very cold and some snow days can be quite challenging. The summers are great with very little humidty and  More

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Over 16 years ago

Back in the 1970's and early 1980's, Rochester was a nice quiet little town that people lived in to get away from the craziness of other areas in Oakland and Macomb  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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