STATE OF THE REGION 2025
LETTER TO THE REGION | 02
The State of the Greater Grand Rapids Region: Welcome to the 2025 State of the Region report. Each year, The Right Place blends quantitative research with the firsthand insight we gain from our close relationships across the business community. This report reflects that dual perspective, offering a clear look at our economic performance and the experiences of employers across Greater Grand Rapids. In 2025, our team met with more than 600 companies across the region. These conversations continue to serve as a strong indicator of business confidence. Overall, companies are moving forward with strategic investments in automation, digital transformation, and emerging technology. These shifts are shaping our local economy and strengthening our position as a growing tech-enabled Midwest hub.
Greater Grand Rapids continues to experience healthy population growth, fueled by young talent and increasingly diverse communities. Our region remains competitive in advanced manufacturing, health sciences, and technology. Cost-of-living advantages and a tight industrial market continue to attract new residents and employers alike. This year’s report tells a story of forward momentum—rising tech capabilities, expanding industrial capacity, and a growing talent base. On behalf of The Right Place, thank you for your partnership and for supporting a stronger, more prosperous region.
We look forward to continuing this work together in the year ahead.
Steve Downing The Right Place, Inc. Board Chair President & CEO, Gentex Corporation
Randy Thelen President & CEO The Right Place, Inc.
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 03
population growth over the last decade 6.2%
possess a bachelor’s degree or higher 37%
25% of population 19-years - old or younger (higher concentration than the state and nation)
of population growth driven by diverse populations 70.3%
7%
industrial space under construction 1.4M sq ft
86K
3.1%
industrial vacancy, lowest among top 50 markets
below national average in cost of living
more air passengers to date (comparing the first three quarters of 2024 to 2025)
employed in Greater Grand Rapids in 2025 597K
of companies report increased sales 65%
1.3K
43% 46%
new tech jobs added in 2025 (nearly 41,000 total)
of companies plan to increase hiring
of companies plan to expand
Data included in this report is based on the Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood Metropolitan Statistical Area, comprising Kent, Ottawa, Barry, Ionia, and Montcalm counties, unless otherwise noted.
Due to the federal government shutdown, areas of this report are limited to the most recent data available. In many cases, data is reflected through the second quarter of 2025.
Lightcast is a frequently cited data source throughout the report. Lightcast aggregates and models data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, and other public and private sources.
Notes on the data
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY | 04
RANKINGS | FOR GREATER GRAND RAPIDS
#11
Housing Market Growth – Business Facilities
#1
City on the Rise: Best Locations to Grow Your Career – LinkedIn
#1
Most Entrepreneurial City in the Midwest – Dealroom.co
#7
#2
Top Ten Rising Stars in North America – Dealroom.co
Small Manufacturing Hub – Business Facilities
#22 Best Run Cities in America – WalletHub
#5
Metros Where Young Homeownership is Most Accessible – Consumer Affairs
#28
Best Cities for Jobs – WalletHub
#20 Best U.S. Cities for Women in the Workplace – Checkr
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PEOPLE | 05
People are the center of Greater Grand Rapids’ growth story. The region’s population rose for another year in a row, becoming more educated and diverse. Amid declining birth rates, Greater Grand Rapids continues to prove a stronghold for young people. Though the labor force contracted slightly and unemployment edged up, the region added 1,300 new tech jobs in 2025, positioning Greater Grand Rapids for a prosperous future. PEOPLE
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PEOPLE | 06
POPULATION
Greater Grand Rapids added more than 5,100 people throughout 2025, at an annual growth rate of 0.4%. Regional population growth slowed compared to the previous year, but matched the nation while outpacing Michigan.
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS POPULATION BY DEMOGRAPHICS
POPULATION GROWTH RATE (YEAR OVER YEAR)
Demographic
2016 Pop.
2025 Pop. Change
Greater Grand Rapids
Michigan
United States
1.40%
White
886,956 101,753 70,930 28,381
908,540 123,788
2%
1.20%
Hispanic
22% 18% 25% 24%
Black Asian
83,561 35,567 28,129 3,988
1.00%
.80%
Two or More Races
22,735
American Indian or Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
3,841
4%
.60%
313
363
16%
.40%
Total
1,114,909 1,183,936
6%
.20%
Source: Lightcast
0.00%
-.20%
-.40% 2022 2023 2024 2025 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
RACE/ETHNICITY AS SHARE OF TOTAL POPULATION IN 2025
Source: Lightcast
Demographic
GGR
MI
U.S.
White
76.7% 72.8%
57.1%
Hispanic
10.5%
6.3% 20.2%
Diverse communities drove the majority (70%) of annual population growth in Greater Grand Rapids from 2024 to 2025. This continues a long-standing trend throughout the region where population growth is fueled by diverse populations. Like previous years, Hispanic and Latino populations were the fastest growing community. DIVERSITY & DEMOGRAPHICS
Black Asian
7.1%
13.6% 4.1% 2.6% 0.6% 0.0%
12.6% 6.6% 2.5% 0.7% 0.2%
3.0% 2.4% 0.3% 0.0%
Two or More Races
American Indian or Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
Source: Lightcast
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PEOPLE | 07
LABOR FORCE
After peaking in Q4 2024 at nearly 636,000 people, Greater Grand Rapids’ labor force contracted through the first half of 2025, reaching approximately 629,000 by Q2. Greater Grand Rapids’ labor force contracted by 5,500 people from Q1 2025 to Q2 2025. Likewise, the region’s labor force declined by 1,300 people (less than 1%) from Q2 of 2024.
Unemployment climbed through 2024 and into 2025, reaching 4.7% in Q2. Greater Grand Rapids’ unemployment began outpacing that of the nation in Q3 2024. The region’s unemployment rate remains less than that of the state. Unemployment rates, in general, have climbed across metropolitan, state, and national levels since 2024.
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS LABOR FORCE BY QUARTER
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS UNEMPLOYMENT BY QUARTER
Greater Grand Rapids
Michigan
United States
20%
640,000
18%
630,000
16%
620,000
14%
610,000
12%
600,000
10%
590,000
8%
580,000
6%
570,000
4%
560,000
2%
550,000
0%
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
2022
2023 2024 2025
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PEOPLE | 08
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT People of Greater Grand Rapids continue to strive toward greater levels of educational attainment. Since 2016, the region added 46,000 new bachelor 's degree holders and nearly 31,000 graduate and/or doctorial degrees.
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
POPULATION UNDER 19 YEARS OLD
28%
2025
2016
Graduate Degree & Higher
Greater Grand Rapids
Michigan
United States
Bachelor’s Degree
27%
Associate’s Degree
26%
Some College
High School Diploma
25%
9th Grade to 12th Grade
24%
Less than 9th Grade
23%
0%
5% 10% 15% 20% 25%
30%
35%
Source: Lightcast
22%
Youth population (those under 19 years old) declined across regional, state, and national levels, following declines in national birthrates. In 2025, youth populations accounted for 25% of Greater Grand Rapids total population, compared to 23.1% in Michigan, and 23.9% in the U.S. Greater Grand Rapids’ youth population declined 0.3% from 2024 to 2025. YOUTH POPULATION
21%
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
2023
2024 2025
Source: Lightcast
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 09
Greater Grand Rapids is a vibrant and growing region. The region’s cost of living remains less than that of peer communities, reinforcing its reputation as an affordable and attractive place to live. Housing development continues across the region with prices below the national average. Industrial development remains active with more than a million square feet of new space added during the past year, while office vacancy has begun to ease as companies re-occupy space. Meanwhile, travel activity at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport reached record levels, signaling Greater Grand Rapids’ increasing role as both a destination and a well-connected hub. PLACE
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 10
INDUSTRIAL INVENTORY BY QUARTER
Greater Grand Rapids added nearly 1.3 million square feet of industrial space since Q3 2024. Meanwhile, industrial vacancy rates crept up to 3.1% in Q3 2025 compared to 2.5% during the same period the previous year. On the office front, inventories have remained flat at 13.5 million square feet since the first quarter of 2024. Since Q3 2024, total vacancy rates (including direct and sublease vacancies) decreased from 14.1% to 13.1% in Q3 2025. COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
126,000,000
124,000,000
122,000,000
120,000,000
118,000,000
116,000,000
VACANCY RATES BY QUARTER
Office
Industrial
114,000,000
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
16%
Source: NAI Wisinski of West Michigan
14%
12%
10%
OFFICE INVENTORY BY QUARTER
8%
14,000,000
6%
13,500,000
4%
13,000,000
2%
12,500,000
0%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
12,000,000
Source: JLL and NAI Wisinski of West Michigan
11,500,000
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Source: JLL
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 11
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Industrial space under construction grew throughout 2025, reaching 1.4 million square feet in Q3 — more than quadrupling from the 275,500 square feet under construction the same period the previous year.
SQUARE FEET OF INDUSTRIAL SPACE UNDER CONSTRUCTION BY QUARTER
SQUARE FEET OF OFFICE SPACE UNDER CONSTRUCTION BY QUARTER
2,676,356
450,000
3.0M
400,000
2.5M
350,000
2.0M
300,000
1,420,744
250,000
1.5M
774,766
200,000
1.0M
150,000
349,700
100,000
500K
50,000
0
0
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023 2024 2025
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Source: NAI Wisinski of West Michigan
Source: JLL
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 12
RESIDENTIAL HOUSING
MEDIAN LISTING PRICE BY QUARTER
The median listing price for housing in Greater Grand Rapids increased nearly 4% to $411,700 in Q3 2025 from $396,508 in Q3 2024. This reflects persistent increases in housing costs at regional, state, and national levels. Median housing costs increased 47% from $279,858 Q3 2019 to Q3 2025. National median listing prices were $20,000 higher than those in Greater Grand Rapids in Q3 2025. New housing continues to sprout up across the region. In the first half of 2025, nearly 1,900 new building permits were issued in Greater Grand Rapids, compared to approximately 2,000 building permits in the first half of 2024. Annual building permits increased nearly 10% to 3,900 in 2024 compared to nearly 3,600 in 2023.
United States
Michigan
Greater Grand Rapids
$500,000
$450,000
$400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000
$150,000
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
Source: Realtor.com
NEW PRIVATE HOUSING BUILDING PERMITS BY QUARTER
1,200
1,000
800
600
400
200
0
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 13
New York, NY 138.5
COST OF LIVING
COST OF LIVING INDEX
Greater Grand Rapids’ cost of living index increased slightly from 92 in 2024 to 92.6 in 2025. Compared to many other peer communities, Greater Grand Rapids offers an affordable cost of living compared to the national average.
Denver, CO
115
Colorado Springs, CO
Milwaukee, WI
107.6 107.8
Salt Lake City, UT 105.2
Jacksonville, FL
Chicago, IL
103 104.4
National 100
Indianapolis, IN 99.0
Louisville, KY
Raleigh, NC
97.2 97.3
Nashville, TN 96.0
The Current | Talbot Development Co. | Grand Rapids, MI
Columbus, OH 95.4
Birmingham, AL 94.8
Greensboro, NC
Oklahoma City, OK
Chattanooga, TN
93.9
Knoxville, TN
Note: The Cost of Living Index compares communities to the national average. Communities with numbers above 100 have higher costs of living than the national average, while communities with numbers below 100 offer a more affordable cost of living than the national average.
93.7
93.0 93.5
Grand Rapids, MI
92 .6
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PLACE | 14
COMMUNITY VIBRANCY 2025 proved to be another record year for hotel sales in Greater Grand Rapids. From November 2024 to October 2025 hotel demand reached 2.3 million rooms sold, a 3% increase from the previous year. AIRLINE TRAVEL Passenger activity through the Gerald R. Ford International Airport grew through 2024 and into Q3 2025. The third quarter of 2025 saw the highest level of traffic in the airport’s history with 1,141,278 passengers. Airport passenger activity increased 6% – or by 66,000 passengers – from Q3 2024 to Q3 2025. Approximately 86,000 more air travelers passed through the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in the first three quarters of 2025, compared to the first three quarters of 2024.
HOTEL ROOM DEMAND
2,500,000
2,000,000
1,500,000
1,000,000
500,000
0
2020 2021
2022 2023 2024 2025
Source: Smith Travel Research (November to October)
GERALD R. FORD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PASSENGERS BY QUARTER
1,200,000
1,000,000
800,000
600,000
400,000
200,000
**Note** Passenger activity aggregates enplanement and deplanement data.
0
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Source: Gerald R. Ford International Airport
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 15
A prosperous region is one that continues to generate opportunity, and Greater Grand Rapids is doing just that. The region continues to forge ahead as the tech economy accelerates, venture capital spurs innovation, and wages continue to grow. Many companies are experiencing growth, planning expansions, hiring new workers, and investing in their employees. PROSPERITY
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 16
Total jobs in Greater Grand Rapids hovered between 603,000 and 605,000 jobs between much of 2025. Due to data constraints, only jobs data through August was readily available at time of publication. Since 2019, Greater Grand Rapids grew nearly 3%, adding approximately 16,000 jobs. Jobs in Greater Grand Rapids are growing faster than those across the state (1.9%) but slower than the nation (5.8%). JOBS
COMPARATIVE JOB GROWTH 2019 TO 2025
Greater Grand Rapids
Michigan
United States
0%
1.0%
2.0% 3.0% 4.0% 5.0% 6.0% 7.0%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
TOTAL JOBS IN GREATER GRAND RAPIDS*
700,000
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS*
600,000
Industry
2019 Jobs 2025 Jobs % Change
Durable goods
87,600
78,238
-11%
Nondurable goods
35,600
34,825
-2%
500,000
Wholesale Trade
32,800
35,300
8%
Retail trade
50,500
50,413
0%
400,000
Transportation and warehousing
17,200
19,113
11%
Finance and insurance
22,300
23,238
4%
Professional and technical services
22,000
27,725
26%
300,000
Management of companies and enterprises
6,300
6,150
-2%
Administrative and waste services
53,500
44,775
-16%
200,000
Educational services
14,200
16,838
19%
Health care and social assistance
81,300
87,075
7%
100,000
Accommodation and food services
45,000
46,738
4%
2023 2024 2025 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Federal
3,800
3,800
0%
State government
8,800
8,575
-3%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics *Includes nonfarm jobs only **2025 data as of August 2025
Local government
38,800
42,550
10%
Source: Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget (MILMI)
**2025 data as of August 2025 *Includes nonfarm jobs only
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 17
Greater Grand Rapids added approximately 1,300 tech jobs in 2025 to reach nearly 41,000 total tech jobs in the region. The region has added 5,600 tech jobs since The Right Place launched the regional Tech Strategy in 2021. SAP Applications, AutoCAD, and Salesforce were the most frequently requested tech skills in job postings from October 2024 to September 2025. TECH JOBS
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS TECH JOBS
TOP TECH SKILLS ( OCT. 2024-SEPT. 2025)
NUMBER OF JOB POSTINGS
42,000
1,040 1,107 1,148 1,275 2,095
SAP Applications
41,000
AutoCAD
Salesforce
40,000
SQL (Programming Language)
39,000
R (Programming Language)
628 817 859 897 952
Python (Programming Language)
38,000
Microsoft Azure
37,000
Power Bl
Epic EMR
36,000
Human Resources Information System (HRIS)
35,000
Source: Lightcast
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
Source: Lightcast
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 18
2025 saw more venture capital investment over fewer deals than the previous year. Venture capital closed 14 deals in 2025, compared to 26 deals in 2024. Capital investment increased 66% from $38 million in 2024 to $63 million in 2025. Median deal value decreased slightly from $3.1 million in 2024 to $2.9 million in 2025. VENTURE CAPITAL
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS VENTURE CAPITAL DEAL COUNT
35
30
25
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS VENTURE CAPITAL INVESTMENT
20
15
180M
10
160M
5
140M
120M
0
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
100M
80M
Source: Pitchbook. Data based on the Core Based Statistical Area including the Grand Rapids metropolitan area and Muskegon.
60M
40M
MEDIAN DEAL SIZE
20M
0
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
$3.5M
$3.0M
Source: Pitchbook. Data based on the Core Based Statistical Area including the Grand Rapids metropolitan area and Muskegon.
$2.5M
$2.0M
$1.5M
$1.0M
$.5M
$0
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
Source: Pitchbook
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 19
AVERAGE WAGES BY OCCUPATION
24–25 Change
19–25 Change
Average hourly earnings in Greater Grand Rapids increased to $31.92 per hour in Q2 2025 from $31.00 per hour in the same period the previous year. Greater Grand Rapids’ average wages continue to trend lower than state and national levels. WAGES AND OCCUPATIONS
Title
2019
2022
2023 2024
2025
Assembler 1
$15.02
$18.06
$18.53
$17.92
$18.59
4%
24%
Machine Operator
$16.64
$18.99
$18.38
$19.96 $19.20
-4%
15%
Assembler 2
$16.74
$19.46
$19.93
$21.99 $22.22
1%
33%
Material Handler
$16.54
$19.99
$19.89
$20.39 $20.30
0%
23%
Packer
$14.70
$17.29
$18.02
$19.39 $19.84
2%
35%
Injection Molding Mach Oper I
$14.87
$17.30
$18.74
$19.23
$19.18
0%
29%
AVERAGE HOURLY EARNINGS BY QUARTER
Registered Nurse
$31.47
$35.37
$34.04
$36.10 $41.70
16%
33%
$37
Case Worker
$17.20
$20.74
$23.16
$21.97 $25.00
14% 45%
Michigan
United States
Greater Grand Rapids
Social Worker
$27.16
$26.66
$33.24
$29.57
$37.45
27%
38%
$35
Software Eng 1
$59,136
$73,715
$71,379 $78,013 $75,925
-3%
28%
Software Eng 2
$74,395
$86,614 $95,996 $95,447 $98,604
3%
33%
$33
Software Eng 3
$95,647 $105,009 $107,546 $123,107 $127,924
4% 34%
Systems Programmer I
$31
$58,073
$58,322 $62,393 $59,885 $63,552
6%
9%
Systems Programmer II
$81,954
$81,341 $85,489 $84,982 $78,673
-7%
-4%
$29
Network Administrator
$70,530
$77,302 $84,407 $84,507 $83,991
-1%
19%
$27
Accountant I
$50,726
$56,131
$53,415 $58,808 $59,376
1%
17%
Controller
$101,771
$112,876 $115,405 $123,593 $130,284
5%
28%
$25
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024 2025
HR Manager
$80,000
$88,986 $95,563 $88,782 $93,351
5%
17%
Source: Federal Bank of St. Louis and Bureau of Labor Statistics
Admin Assistant II
$41,981 $45,609 $49,427 $48,184 $50,389
5% 20%
Wages across occupations, by-and-large, continue to increase year-over-year. Wages in healthcare occupations, including nursing and social workers, saw the most gains from 2024. For the first time since The Right Place began tracking wage data, average salaries for entry-level software engineers fell 3% from in 2025. Meanwhile, wages for intermediate and advanced software engineers increased 3% and 4% respectively.
Help Desk II
$22.27
$24.81
$26.78
$27.91
$28.54
2%
28%
Paralegal
$72,219
$76,920
$62,491 $85,824 $84,017
-2%
16%
Buyer II
$60,824
$67,428
$68,881 $70,905 $73,110
3% 20%
Source: The Employers Association (TEA)
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 20
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS Each year The Right Place meets with more than 600 companies across the region through retention visits. These conversations provide The Right Place with unique insights into the state of the Greater Grand Rapids economy and business community. Overall, companies in Greater Grand Rapids are becoming less concerned with talent-related issues and more concerned about sales, a trend that began in 2024 and has accelerated since. The share of companies reporting increasing and declining sales both rose , and many are tempering hiring and training investments.
GREATER GRAND RAPIDS SALES TRENDS
8%
Sales Increasing
28%
Sales Stable
65%
Sales Decreasing
Talent Recruitment Recruitment challenges continue to ease: 24% of companies reported issues attracting new talent, down from 31% in 2024 and 43% in 2023. Sales Trends Sales increased for 65% of companies in 2025, up from 61% in 2024. However, the share reporting declining sales also rose from 5% to 8%. Hiring Trends Hiring momentum slowed again in 2025. Forty-three percent of companies plan to increase hiring, compared to 45% in 2024 and 49% in 2023. Companies maintaining hiring levels remain consistent with 2024, but those planning decreases rose from 3% to 6%. Expansions Expansion plans dipped in 2025 : 46% of companies expect to expand , compared to 52% in 2024 and 57% in 2023.
Ownership Changes Seven percent of companies reported ownership changes in 2025, up slightly from 6% in 2024. Investing in Training Training investments remain mostly stable. Forty-four percent reported unchanged budgets; companies increasing training spend declined from 38% in 2024 to 34% in 2025. Pinch Points Sales remained the top barrier to growth, cited by 24% of companies (22% in 2024). Facility issues (13%) and talent attraction (11%) also indicated pressure points. Talent-related barriers overall continue to decline compared to 2023.
TOP CHALLENGES TO GROWTH
Sales
Facility Issues
Talent Attraction
Customer Issues
Talent Development
Financing
Global Trade Issues / Tariffs
Technology Needs
Product Development
Lean / Efficiency Issues
2025
2024
Incentives
Talent Retention
Municipality Issues
Management / Leadership
Infrastructure
Supplier Issues
Logistics / Movement of Goods
0%
5% 10%
15%
20% 25% 30%
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
PROSPERITY | 21
RECENT PROJECTS
Peterson Farms Based in Oceana County, food processor Peterson Farms will invest $32.2 million to expand its juice containerization operation, a project that will result in 96 new jobs. The project was supported by the Oceana County Economic Alliance (OCEA) and The Right Place. Weiss Technik North America Test chamber manufacturer, Weiss Technik North America will invest $25 million to expand into a 125,000 square-foot facility on a newly- acquired 10-acre parcel in Kentwood. The project will add 36 new jobs. Wolverine Worldwide Over the course of three years, Wolverine Worldwide will invest more than $9 million to expand its global headquarters in Rockford. The project is expected to add 100 highly skilled jobs to the region. Camino Labs Camino Labs, a contract manufacturer for medical devices, opened in Walker in 2025. The company invested $7 million and plans to hire 130 employees.
BENTELER Group BENTELER Group will add 147 jobs and invest more than $105 million to expand its operation in Greater Grand Rapids, which will include a 315,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Site 36. Buell Motorcycles In May, Grand Rapids-based Buell Motorcycles announced a $18.5 million expansion to its headquarters. The company plans to use the investment to purchase real estate, conduct renovations, and acquire specialty tooling and machinery. HexArmor HexArmor will invest $11.4 million to add a new 59,000-square-foot addition to its Grand Rapids facility. The project will add 100 new jobs, double the company’s warehouse size, and increase its office space.
OVD OVD Insurance purchased a seven-story,
99,000-square-foot office building in downtown Grand Rapids to use as its headquarters. OVD plans to add 131 jobs over the next five years.
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 22
The Right Place’s economic development work covers a seven-county region including, Kent, Ionia, Lake, Mason, Montcalm, Newaygo , and Oceana counties. The Right Place works closely with those partner counties outside Kent County by partnering with economic development professionals in each community. These partnerships are made possible by alliances in each county, served by a local board of directors. Each county contributes unique strengths to Greater Grand Rapids, creating a dynamic region where collaboration fosters economic vitality and growth. REGIONAL PARTNERS
Notes on the data
Data in this section of the report was collected from Lightcast, the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, and the U.S. Census Bureau.
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 23
IONIA COUNTY
Ionia County’s population reached 66,351 in 2025, marking steady growth over the past decade. The county’s median household income of $73,436 exceeds that of Michigan, while 28% of residents hold an associate degree or higher. The local labor force totals 32,754 people, with an unemployment rate of 5.3% and a cost of living index of 90.1 – underscoring affordability relative to state and national averages. Among Ionia County companies interviewed by The Right Place in 2025, 32% reported rising sales, 21% increased hiring, and half plan to expand their operations, signaling continued investment momentum despite lingering challenges around facilities, sales, and management capacity.
IONIA COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Population
Unemployment Rate
66,351
5.3%
Employment Services
2,891 1,526 1,266
Education and Hospitals (Local Government) Motor Vehicle Body and Trailer Manufacturing
Restaurants and Other Eating Places
1,146
State Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
1,058
Gross Regional Product
37.8 Median Age*
Total
7,888
$2.3B
IONIA COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-2024)
25,000
Associate Degree & Higher
$73,436 Median Household Income*
2015
2024
28%
20,000
15,000
Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
10,000
32,754
90.1
5,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 24
IONIA COUNTY
IONIA COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
Steele Street Park Rendering | City of Ionia
Associate Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
32% reporting increased sales 50% planning business expansions
21% increasing hiring levels 21% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
Population
Facility Issues | Sales | Management / Leadership TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The City of Ionia received a $185,600 RAP grant for the proposed Steele Street Park transformation project. The project will revitalize a vacant 7.7-acre parcel into a vibrant, multi- phase recreational complex, with the centerpiece being a versatile performing arts pavilion.
The Community Condos of Lake Odessa is a vision of the Stuart family who are long-time residents and supporters of the Village of Lake Odessa. Recognizing a lack of housing options in the Village, particularly for seniors, the Stuarts acquired the old Lakewood school property with the goal of providing new living opportunities within the Village where residents could be an integral part of the downtown Lake Odessa community.
Pure Aluminum will expand its aluminum scrap processing capacity in a multi-phase project in Berlin Township.
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 25
LAKE COUNTY
Lake County’s population rose to 13,358 in 2025, continuing a pattern of modest but steady growth over the past several years. The county’s gross regional product climbed to $235 million, up from $215 million in 2024, while the labor force expanded to 4,915 and unemployment reached 8.2%. The cost of living index of 86.4 reflect the area’s affordability. Among companies interviewed by The Right Place in 2025, half reported increased sales, 60% added to their workforce, and 70% planned business expansions, signaling strong local investment intent despite persistent challenges tied to facility constraints and talent development.
LAKE COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Population
Unemployment Rate
13,358
8.2%
Restaurants and Other Eating Places
228
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
202
Offices of Physicians
142
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)
111
Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)
101
Gross Regional Product
Median Age*
Total
783
$235M 50.3
LAKE COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-2024)
5,000
Associate Degree & Higher
$49,680 Median Household Income*
2015
2024
20%
4,000
3,000
4,915 Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
2,000
86.4
1,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 26
LAKE COUNTY
LAKE COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Associate Degree
50% reporting increased sales 70% planning business expansions
60% increasing hiring levels 40% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
Population
Facility Issues | Talent Development | Talent Attraction TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Created the Lake County Housing Coalition and a three-year housing plan to address critical housing needs in the community.
One of ten communities statewide accepted into Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s Pilot Community Growth Academy . Participating communities host a CEDAM Economic Development Fellow to support Economic Diversification efforts and gain access to program specific resources including coaching, consulting, and funding.
Launch of Lake County Leadership Lab , a pilot program created to support emerging leaders in their civic and professional development.
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 27
MASON COUNTY
Mason County’s population held steady at 29,140 in 2025, while economic indicators continue to demonstrate modest but consistent growth. The county’s gross regional product remained at $1.3 billion, while the median household income rose to $62,296, up from $60,744 in 2024. Educational attainment also strengthened, with 40% of residents holding an associate degree or higher. Mason County’s labor force totaled 13,186, and unemployment reached 7.2%, slightly above the state average. Among companies interviewed by The Right Place in 2025, 27% reported rising sales, 20% increased hiring, and 60% planned business expansions. Companies cited sales, facility constraints, and talent attraction as their primary barriers to growth.
MASON COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
764
Population
Unemployment Rate
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)
712
29,140 7.2%
Restaurants and Other Eating Places
704
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
585
Warehouse Clubs, Supercenters, and Other General Merchandise Retailers
557
Total
3,332
Gross Regional Product
47.2 Median Age*
$1.3B
MASON COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-2024)
6,000
2015
2024
Associate Degree & Higher
Median Household Income*
5,000
40%
62,296
4,000
3,000
2,000
13,186 Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
91.1
1,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 28
MASON COUNTY
MASON COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Associate Degree
27% reporting increased sales 60% planning business expansions
20% increasing hiring levels 27% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
Population
Sales | Facility Issues | Talent Attraction TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Created a Multiuse Trails Task Force focused on building 32-miles of paved, nonmotorized multiuse trails connecting to regional trails systems, a potential $24 million investment.
Launched the NextGen Community Leadership Program , a yearlong cohort for high school seniors preparing them to lead beyond high school.
Assisted Dutch Developers in securing the first Housing TIF project in Mason County , a $27 million investment to build 144 apartments in Pere Marquette Township.
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 29
MONTCALM COUNTY
Montcalm County’s population continued its upward trajectory in 2025, reaching 70,384 residents, up from just over 69,000 in 2024. The county’s gross regional product grew to $2.2 billion, and median household income held steady at $64,892, reflecting consistent economic performance. The labor force totaled 32,058 in 2025, with 25% of residents holding an associate degree or higher. The unemployment rate edged up to 5.8% from 5.1% in 2024. Among companies interviewed by The Right Place, 60% reported rising sales, 60% planned expansions, and 80% increased training investments, underscoring strong business confidence even as facility limitations and talent attraction and development remain persistent challenges.
MONTCALM COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)
1,752
Population
Unemployment Rate
70,384 5.8%
Restaurants and Other Eating Places
1,603 1,348
General Medical and Surgical Hospitals
Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing
953
State Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
875
Total
6,530
Gross Regional Product
40.6 Median Age*
$2.2B
MONTCALM COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-
25,000
2015
2024
Associate Degree & Higher
$64,892 Median Household Income*
25%
20,000
15,000
10,000
Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
32,058
88.3
5,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 30
MONTCALM COUNTY
MONTCALM COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Associate Degree
60% reporting increased sales 60% planning business expansions
10% increasing hiring levels 80% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
Population
Facility Issues | Talent Attraction | Talent Development TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Secured over $370,000 in Michigan RAP grants to revitalize the historic Howard City Depot and construct a year-round community pavilion in Lakeview.
Since April 2025, MEA has held more than 125 listening meetings with businesses, educators, and local leaders to learn what’s needed to build lasting opportunity.
Reconnected with Greenville, the county’s largest municipality, resulting in renewed leadership, trust, and a match grant from the Greenville Area Community Foundation .
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 31
NEWAYGO COUNTY
Newaygo County’s population rose to 51,947 in 2025, continuing a growth trend of more than 8% since 2016. The county’s gross regional product reached $1.7 billion, while median household income increased to $61,931, supported by a cost of living index of 89.7—nearly 10% below the national average. With 29% of residents holding an associate degree or higher, the county benefits from a skilled and growing workforce of 23,522. Among companies interviewed by The Right Place in 2025, 76% reported rising sales, 48% planned expansions, and 32% increased training investments. Companies pointed to global trade, talent attraction, and operational efficiency as the primary factors limiting growth.
NEWAYGO COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)
1,218
Population
Unemployment Rate
Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing
853
51,947
6.3%
Warehouse Clubs, Supercenters, and Other General Merchandise Retailers Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
697
681
Restaurants and Other Eating Places
623
Total
4,072
Gross Regional Product
42.8 Median Age*
$1.7B
NEWAYGO COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-2024)
14,000
2015
2024
Associate Degree & Higher
$61,931 Median Household Income*
12,000
29%
10,000
8,000
6,000
Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
4,000
23,522
89.7
2,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 32
NEWAYGO COUNTY
NEWAYGO COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Associate Degree
76% reporting increased sales 48% planning business expansions
8% increasing hiring levels 32% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
2000 4,000 6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
Population
Global Trade Issues / Tariffs | Talent Attraction | Lean / Efficiency Issues TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Secured Newaygo County’s first Housing TIF approval , resulting in the 102-unit, $16 million Highbanks multi-family housing project.
Received a $186,000 RAP grant for the Newaygo Pocket Park Initiative to expand their social zone and create a unique sense of place at a key downtown intersection.
Facilitated a historic signage initiative in Woodland Park , resulting in 15+ signs highlighting the cultural contributions of African Americans throughout the community.
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 33
OCEANA COUNTY
Oceana County’s economy continued to advance in 2025, with gross regional product reaching $865 million. The median household income rose by approximately $3,000 to $63,624 from the previous year, while the county’s population and labor force held steady at 27,134 people and 12,103 people, respectively. The county’s unemployment rate rose from 5.3% in 2024 to 8.7%, however, sentiment among companies interviewed by The Right Place in 2025 remains strong with 68% reported increasing sales, 52% added workers, and 68% planned expansions. Sales performance, facility capacity, and infrastructure were identified as primary barriers to growth.
OCEANA COUNTY TOP INDUSTRIES BY JOBS
NOTABLE STATISTICS
Industry
Number of Jobs
Fruit and Vegetable Preserving and Specialty Food Manufacturing Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals
1,011
Population
Unemployment Rate
27,134
8.7%
542 419 414 307
Education and Hospitals (Local Government)
Health and Personal Care Retailers
Crop Production
Total
2,692
Gross Regional Product
Median Age*
$865M 43.9
OCEANA COUNTY COMMUTING PATTERNS (2015-2024)
7,000
2015
2024
Associate Degree & Higher
$63,624 Median Household Income*
6,000
32%
5,000
4,000
3,000
12,103 Labor Force
Cost of Living Index
2,000
89.1
1,000
0
Inbound
Outbound
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
REGIONAL PARTNERS | 34
OCEANA COUNTY
OCEANA COUNTY EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2016
2025
Graduate Degree & Higher
Bachelor’s Degree
LOCAL BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Associate Degree
68% reporting increased sales 68% planning business expansions
52% increasing hiring levels 32% increasing training investments
Some College
High School Diploma
9th Grade to 12th Grade
Less than 9th Grade
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
Population
Sales | Facility Issues | Infrastructure TOP PINCH POINTS:
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Supported a $32 million expansion project for Peterson Farms creating 98 new jobs to expand their shelf- stable juice production.
Facilitated the first Brownfield Act 381 project in Oceana County as locally owned Walkerville Kwik Mart completes a $1.3 million renovation of their gas station and convenience store.
Helped initiate a $6.2 million investment from West Shore Community College bringing a community center to Hart with support service agencies and the first-ever brick-and- mortar higher education investment in Oceana County .
* Data as of 2025
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
AUTHORS | 35
AUTHORS PAGE
AUTHORS:
Randy Thelen President & CEO
John Wiegand Business Intelligence & Research Manager
Brad Comment Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives
CONTRIBUTORS:
Dr. TaRita D. Johnson Senior Vice President, Talent & Diversity
Tim Mroz Senior Vice President, Community Development
Andria Romkema Senior Vice President, Business Development
Katrina Panzlau Director, Marketing & Communications
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
25 Ottawa Avenue SW Suite 400 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616.771.0325 info@rightplace.org rightplace.org
The Right Place, Inc. | State of the Region 2025
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online