Dearborn vs Grand Rapids: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Dearborn, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dearborn, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,458▲ | $100,321 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.15▲ | $48.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,028▲ | $64,521 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,387 | $80,651▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $138,827 | $146,038▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $168,110 | $170,043▲ |
| Total Employed | 19 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Dearborn and Grand Rapids are closely matched on overall actuary compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Dearborn and Grand Rapids is $8,137 (8.11%). Dearborn's median is -19.16% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dearborn spans $100,082,Grand Rapids spans $105,522. Grand Rapids has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced actuarys.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Dearborn ($116,371 effective) pays 10.83% more than Grand Rapids ($104,998 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dearborn if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,458/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,371)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($170,043)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Dearborn grew -6.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.4% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Dearborn, MI
$112,376 (2024) → $105,095 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$93,110 (2019) → $97,210 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dearborn, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Dearborn or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dearborn and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Dearborn to Grand Rapids as a actuary?
What do entry-level actuarys earn in Dearborn vs Grand Rapids?
Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov