Detroit, MI vs Grand Rapids, MI
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Detroit
77.3
#253 nationally
Grand Rapids
73.4
#738 nationally
Grand Rapids leads in median household income ($54,789 vs $37,761). Grand Rapids leads in average commute (21.2 min vs 25.7 min). Detroit leads in cost of living index (82 vs 91).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 77.3 (#253) | 73.4 (#738) |
| Population | 633,218 | 201,013 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $76,084 | $311,699 |
| Median Household Income | $37,761 | $54,789 |
| Average Commute | 25.7 min | 21.2 min |
| Walk Score | 51 | 52 |
| Crime Level | 48.8 | Moderate |
| School Rating | N/A | 6.8 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 91 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+29.0 | D+5.4 |
C+
77.3 Score
Detroit, MI
Major Michigan city with a diverse economy
Median Home
$76,084
Population
633,218
Crime
Very High
Walk Score
51
Midwest
View Detroit, MI →
C
73.4 Score
Grand Rapids, MI
Beer City USA with West Michigan charm
Median Home
$311,699
Population
201,013
Crime
Moderate
Schools
B
Midwest
View Grand Rapids, MI →
Try a different matchup
Swap Detroit for: