Population: 1,017,877
Average annual salary: $42,950
Quality of life: 7.5
Value: 7.9
Grand Rapids attracts “college students and young families with its healthy job market, affordable housing, and outdoor recreational activities,” said a local expert. The self-proclaimed “Beer City USA” has more than 40 breweries as well as dynamic public art and music scenes.
Once a hub for furniture production, Grand Rapids’ job market is now dominated by education and healthcare, with many opportunities for workers without a college degree.