About the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Rochester to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,751
$1,331
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,396
$1,281
💵 Families earn per year
$74,533
$50,919
🔑 Buying a house
$244,500
$139,600
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
95.5
97.0
🏛️ Property tax per year
$2,493
$3,152
⚡ Electric bill per month
$100
$155
👥 People living there
198,535
208,772
Commute to work
19 min
19.3 min
College degree
41.6%
30%
Own their home
54%
38.1%
Below poverty line
16.9%
27.8%
Unemployment
5.2%
7.9%
Bottom line
- Pick Grand Rapids for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Rochester for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Grand Rapids | Rochester | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firefighter | $56,260 | $89,120 | +58% in Rochester |
| Electrician | $62,240 | $77,310 | +24% in Rochester |
| Police Officer | $74,920 | $92,920 | +24% in Rochester |
| Market Research Analyst | $64,880 | $77,170 | +19% in Rochester |
| Lawyer | $129,360 | $148,150 | +15% in Rochester |
| Software Developer | $107,520 | $122,770 | +14% in Rochester |
| Cashier | $29,880 | $33,850 | +13% in Rochester |
| Dental Hygienist | $84,290 | $93,650 | +11% in Rochester |
Frequently asked questions
Is Grand Rapids or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Grand Rapids and Rochester cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Rochester to match $60,000 in Grand Rapids?
About $60,935 a year gives the same standard of living in Rochester.
Where do people earn more, Grand Rapids or Rochester?
The typical household earns $74,533 in Grand Rapids and $50,919 in Rochester, 46% more in Grand Rapids.
More comparisons
All Grand Rapids comparisons → · All Rochester comparisons →