Economist Salary in Grand Rapids, Michigan
The median economist salary in Grand Rapids, MI is $102,546 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 0.0% above the Michigan state average.
Economist Pay in Grand Rapids: What to Expect (2026)
Grand Rapids offers a median economist salary of $102,546, which is $0 above the Michigan state average of $102,546. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Grand Rapids pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Grand Rapids's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for economists in Grand Rapids spans from $55,800 at the 10th percentile to $178,200 at the 90th percentile — a $122,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $58,500, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $166,500. With a population of 198,917, Grand Rapids is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Grand Rapids by Experience
In Grand Rapids, an entry-level economist earns around $58,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Grand Rapids, MI
| Percentile | Grand Rapids |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,800 |
| Median (50th) | $102,546 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,200 |
Economist Salary in Other Michigan Cities
How to Become a Economist in Grand Rapids
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Grand Rapids and the surrounding Michigan area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Grand Rapids may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Grand Rapids
Browse open economist positions in Grand Rapids, MI: