News Summary
In a recent WalletHub study, Grand Rapids earned recognition as one of the top cities for individuals with disabilities, ranking 26th overall among 182 U.S. cities. The evaluation highlighted Grand Rapids’ significant strengths in quality of life and healthcare, while also revealing areas needing economic improvement. In contrast, Detroit ranked 123rd, showcasing a stark disparity between the two cities regarding support and resources available for individuals with disabilities. These findings emphasize the need for policy initiatives to bridge the gap and enhance living conditions statewide.
Grand Rapids has been recognized as a top city for individuals with disabilities in the recent WalletHub study, which ranked the 2025 Best & Worst Cities for People with Disabilities. The study evaluated 182 U.S. cities across three key categories: economy, quality of life, and health care. Grand Rapids placed 26th overall, achieving a score of 54.70, indicating it offers better conditions for residents with disabilities compared to many other urban areas.
Grand Rapids received particularly notable scores in the quality of life category, ranking 23rd. This suggests that individuals with disabilities in Grand Rapids enjoy relatively favorable living conditions. In healthcare, the city earned a rank of 50th, indicating access to medical resources and services. However, Grand Rapids’ economy ranking was lower at 105th, pointing to areas where economic growth is needed.
In contrast, Detroit lagged significantly behind in the WalletHub assessment, ranking 123rd overall with a score of 48.04. While Detroit also showed strengths in the quality of life category, where it placed 55th, and the healthcare category, achieving a rank of 90th, its economy ranked a troubling 170th. This low economic ranking reflects critical financial hardships, which are particularly pronounced in the realm of housing, employment rates, and overall economic support for individuals with disabilities.
Moreover, Detroit placed 179th nationwide regarding residents with disabilities living in poverty, which highlights significant economic challenges for many families. This data suggests that there is a stark contrast between the level of support and resources available for individuals with disabilities in Grand Rapids compared to those in Detroit.
The findings of this study indicate a growing disparity in accessibility and support systems between the two Michigan cities. Grand Rapids exemplifies how mid-sized cities can effectively provide a more supportive environment for people with disabilities due to better quality of life and healthcare metrics. In contrast, Detroit’s results spotlight a pressing need for increased economic investment and enhanced accessibility measures.
These differences suggest an opportunity for statewide policy initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between Michigan’s largest urban center and its mid-sized cities. Addressing the social and economic disparities highlighted in this report could lead to improved living conditions for individuals with disabilities statewide. Both cities can likely benefit from community efforts to enhance the quality of life for all residents, particularly those with disabilities.
As discussions about inclusivity and accessibility continue, the results of WalletHub’s 2025 study serve as a crucial reminder of the work that remains to provide equal opportunities and improve living standards for individuals with disabilities in urban areas across Michigan.
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Additional Resources
- Big Rapids News: WalletHub 2025 Best & Worst Cities for People with Disabilities
- Wikipedia: Disability in the United States
- Detroit News: Opinion on Vulnerable Students
- Detroit Free Press: Election Day Transportation
- Fox 17 Online: Ms. Wheelchair Michigan 2025
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
