Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 30% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $52,500 in Grand Rapids.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Michigan salaries · Oregon salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Grand Rapids has a housing index of 78 while Portland sits at 168 (national average = 100). The median home in Grand Rapids costs $240,000 compared to $480,000 in Portland, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Grand Rapids versus $1,800 in Portland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Grand Rapids scores 96 while Portland scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Grand Rapids (98) are lower than Portland (108).
Median household income in Grand Rapids is $49,982 compared to $71,005 in Portland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
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