Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
15% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 15% more affordable than Salt Lake City. A $75,000 salary in Salt Lake City is equivalent to $63,785 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 · Utah salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Grand Rapids has a housing index of 78 while Salt Lake City sits at 120 (national average = 100). The median home in Grand Rapids costs $240,000 compared to $440,000 in Salt Lake City, a difference of $200,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Grand Rapids versus $1,500 in Salt Lake City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Grand Rapids scores 96 while Salt Lake City scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Grand Rapids (98) are higher than Salt Lake City (97). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Grand Rapids is $49,982 compared to $60,590 in Salt Lake City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
Amazon affiliate links