10 Best Independent Living Communities in Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Independent Living

Independent Living Communities offer seniors a convenient balance between an independent lifestyle and not having to concern themselves with chores. Frequent needs such as the scheduling of social activities and housekeeping are accounted for, allowing seniors more free time to live life as they desire. Along with their daily needs being met, residents can enjoy the opportunity to be among peers, in a community with others of similar ages and backgrounds. Typically comprised of a private living area and a full kitchen, these communities offer homes with many of the amenities of apartment life but with none of the hassle. Guests can be invited over and entertained, and more time can be spent with them with the basic maintenance of daily chores out of the way. While policies differ between communities, many residences allow pets as well. Nursing and health care services may always be arranged for with independent care providers if desired. There are a variety of benefits and expenses to consider while selecting an independent living community. It is important to learn if these amenities are included in your plan: field trips, wellness program, meals, Waiting list deposit, internet access, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry. The amenities that pertain to independent living include laundry service, community activities, healthcare center, concierge services, security guards, restaurant-style dining hall, game/TV room, and golf course.

Demographics and Values

Grand Rapids has a population density of 1,727 people per square mile. Of the population of Grand Rapids 22.3% have a high-school diploma, 34.7% have a college degree, and 12.2% have a graduate degree. Demographically, Grand Rapids is 67.6% white, 0.4% Native American, 4.8% mixed race, 15.3% Hispanic, 2.1% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian, 19.9% black, and 5.1% other or not specified. Out of the total population of Grand Rapids, 13.8% have some form of disability, 22.5% live in poverty, 10.2% do not have health insurance, and 67.9% participate in the labor force. In Grand Rapids, 5.4% of the citizens are veterans. Out of the total city population, 50.8% are female and 49.2% are male. The median age of Grand Rapids is 31 years old.

Cost of Living

The community in which a community is located could have a significant effect on community price. The total cost of living is a major influence when deciding which destination is best for your loved one. Grand Rapids has a median home value of about $121,421 and the median cost of rent is $862 per month per month. The rent burden for Grand Rapids is around 17.2% of the average monthly income.

State Information

An overview of Michigan

The quality of life enjoyed by the average Michigan citizen is ranked 33rd nation-wide. Additionally, Michigan is ranked 24th by healthcare standards. Out of a national average of 100, Michigan has a cost of living index rating of 89, a grocery index rating of 89, and a housing index rating of 75. There are 148 general hospitals and 259 health centers that provide care for 10,015,421 Michigan residents. The three highest ranked hospitals in Michigan are University Of Michigan Health System, Mercy Health Muskegon, and Holland Community Hospital. The natural beauty of Michigan is ranked 29th in the nation.

Social demographics of the state

In terms of religious values, 33% of Michigan’s population regularly attend some form of service and there are in total 9,521 different congregations. The top three Christian denominations in the state are Evangelical Protestant-25%, Mainline Protestant-18%, and Historically Black Protestant-8%. The top three non-Christian denominations in the state are Jewish-<1%, Muslim-<1%, and Buddhist-<1%. In Michigan there are 351 masonic lodges. During the latest presidential election, 48% voted for the Republican candidate while 47% voted for the Democratic candidate. In terms of diversity, Michigan ranks 36th in the nation. In Michigan, 31% of the population is over the age of 55. The median age in the state is 40.

State-wide weather information

On average, the state receives 2.76 inches of precipitation a month. The average amount of precipitation peaks during the month of June at around 4.76 inches. The average air quality index rating in Michigan is 38.1 AQI. The average air quality index rating peaks in the month of May with a rating of around 54.5 AQI. The average temperature in the winter falls to around 23F. During the winter, the average high temperature peaks at around 37F during the month of February. The average low temperature during the winter drops to around -2F in the month of January. During the summer, the average temperature in Michigan is around 67F. Over the summer months the average high temperature peaks at around 85F during the month of July. The average low summer temperature is around 44F in the month of June. On average, the humidity rating for Michigan is around 72%. The highest monthly average humidity rating is 81% in the month of December. While residents of Michigan mostly enjoy pleasant conditions, it’s important to be aware of inclement weather as well, which in Michigan can include tornadoes.

Wildlife to be found in Michigan

The state of Michigan has a diverse array of plant and animal life. Local plant life can consist of red oak, hemlock, white pine, and birch. While venturing throughout the state, you might see animals such as the catfish and bullheads, the lake trout, the monarch butterfly, or the Atlantic salmon. The state animal of Michigan is the white-tailed deer.