Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 7% more affordable than Spokane. A $75,000 salary in Spokane is equivalent to $69,643 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Grand Rapids has a housing index of 78 while Spokane sits at 94 (national average = 100). The median home in Grand Rapids costs $240,000 compared to $310,000 in Spokane, a difference of $70,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Grand Rapids versus $1,200 in Spokane.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Grand Rapids scores 96 while Spokane scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Grand Rapids (98) are lower than Spokane (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Grand Rapids is $49,982 compared to $48,834 in Spokane. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
Amazon affiliate links