5 Reasons Grand Rapids Is a Retiree Haven
Grand Rapids has a reputation as a retiree haven, both in the press and in Grand Rapids real estate agent circles. And why not? In addition to being a very affordable area relative to other parts of the nation, Grand Rapids offers great quality of life, including art, culture, and great health care.
As a Grand Rapids real estate agent, I’m always running across people who see Grand Rapids as their ideal place to retire, and for many good reasons. AARP Magazine listed Grand Rapids as one its top 10 places to live a couple of years ago, and it’s also been featured in Where to Retire magazine. What accounts for all this buzz about Grand Rapids?
- Health care – With its famous Medical Mile, Grand Rapids has become well known as a health care magnet. Grand Rapids features three major hospital systems (two of which are ranked nationally), so patients find themselves with many good options.
- Cost of living – Grand Rapids’ cost of living compares favorably to much of the nation. In fact, AARP Magazine’s list looked for communities in which retirees could live comfortably for $30,000 a year, and that was one of the criteria for choosing Grand Rapids.
- Activities – Whether you like the buzz of city life or prefer the scenic outdoors, Grand Rapids has something to offer. Cultural activities abound at venues like Meijer Gardens. Sports buffs enjoy the opportunity to take in a Whitecaps game, a Grand Rapids Griffins hockey game, or an LPGA tournament. Others enjoy proximity to the lake and weekend destinations, a great restaurant scene, bike trails, the free international art competition ArtPrize, and a selection of top-rated craft breweries.
- Communities – The neighborhoods and outlying towns around Grand Rapids offer integrated communities, where neighbors pride themselves on looking after each other.
- Social opportunities – Grand Rapids is known for a high degree of volunteer involvement, and senior volunteer programs through groups like Senior Neighbors provide lots of chances to get involved in the community and give back. Just about every community near Grand Rapids has at least one senior group that offers travel opportunities, enrichment classes, special events, and social centers.
Whatever your interest, Grand Rapids is a great place to consider for retirement. Because Grand Rapids’ housing market remains affordable relative to the rest of the country, Grand Rapids retirees have more money to spend on other activities. Take a look at our home search and allow yourself to imagine the possibilities. And when you’re ready to see what Grand Rapids might offer, contact The Sprich Group.
Photo: John Eisenschenk ( some rights reserved )
