- Greater Grand Rapids’ population grew 0.4% in 2025, down from close to 1% the previous year but still ahead of the statewide growth rate
- Total jobs in the region stood just over 600,000 this year, roughly the same as in 2024 and 2023
- Still, the region topped its goals for economic investment and remained a state and national leader in low vacancy rates, tech jobs, and young population
West Michigan remains a leader in job and population growth across Michigan, but there are signs momentum has slowed amid staffing challenges, tariffs and the rise of artificial intelligence.
Forty-six percent of Grand Rapids-area companies said in 2025 they were planning to expand, down from 52% the year before, according to data presented Thursday at an event hosted by economic development firm The Right Place.
Forty-three percent of businesses said they were planning to hire, down from 45%…