2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Waukesha, WI vs Grand Rapids, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Grand Rapids older or younger than people in Waukesha?
- The Median Age in Grand Rapids is 4.5 years younger than in Waukesha.

Are housing costs cheaper in Grand Rapids or Waukesha?
- Grand Rapids housing costs are 13.4% less expensive than Waukesha housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Grand Rapids or Waukesha?
- The average commute for residents of Grand Rapids is 2.9 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Waukesha.

Things to do in Waukesha?
Waukesha, Wisconsin is a vibrant city located in the Midwest United States. Home to attractions such as Fox River Park and Frame Park visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Waukesha. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Carroll University Center for the Arts and the Waukesha Civic Theatre. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Waukesha has something for everyone!

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!

 Waukesha, WIGrand Rapids, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock197,858329,725,481
 Median Income$71,733  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$286,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.27  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Waukesha    7 Reviews

I lived in waukesha for 37 years. It's home, it's where I grew up but it's a bit of a dump. They're trying hard to make it nice but its just not that great of a place to  More

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Over 12 years ago

I lived in Waukesha in 2006 while on a contract position for a precast design company. I found Waukesha to be a very enjoyable place to live. It is a very place to live  More

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Over 16 years ago

Waukesha is a small city, 65K population, with the amenities of a larger town. Its access to library, daily shopping, mainline restaurant fare and outside activity is  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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