Are you moving to Cleveland? The “Forest City” is a fantastic Midwestern city to put down your roots. It’s a major metro area with diverse outdoor activities, a world-class theater district, a renowned healthcare system, and much more. Our guide on moving to Cleveland, Ohio, includes all the tips and tricks to make your transition as smooth as possible. Learn about the ins and outs of living in Cleveland!

About Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio, is a major city on the southern shore of Lake Erie in the northeastern part of the state.

General Moses Cleaveland, a surveyor for the Connecticut Land Company, founded it in 1796. Initially named “Cleaveland,” the city grew slowly, but its location along Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River made it a strategic spot for trade and transportation. When a local newspaper dropped the “a” from Cleaveland to fit the name in a headline, “Cleveland” stuck.

During the 19th century, Cleveland expanded rapidly, becoming a key industrial city, particularly after the completion of the Ohio and Erie Canal in 1832, which connected it to the Ohio River. This boosted its status as a shipping and manufacturing hub, with steel, oil, and other industries driving its growth. Notably, John D. Rockefeller established Standard Oil in Cleveland in 1870, marking the city as a wealth and industrial power center.

By the early 20th century, Cleveland was one of the largest cities in the U.S., attracting waves of immigrants seeking work in factories. The city’s industrial prominence continued through World War II but began to decline in the postwar era.

Cleveland has reinvented itself in recent decades. The city shifted its focus toward healthcare, higher education, and tourism, capitalizing on its cultural landmarks and waterfront. The opening of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 symbolized this revival. Modern Cleveland continues to balance its industrial legacy with innovation and development.

Cost of Living

The Ohio cost of living compared to the rest of the nation is rather low. While some pockets cost more, the CLE is surprisingly inexpensive compared to other cities. Factor in that it’s near a large body of water (Lake Erie), and it’s impressive that it has a cost of living 17 percent lower than the national average.

The cost of living index scores Cleveland an overall 81, where 100 is the national average for American cities. Housing is the most affordable category, at 76% under the national average. It also has an affordable cost for health care, at 17% less. Miscellaneous costs are the most expensive–child care, eating out, clothing, haircuts, etc.

Cleveland’s rental prices are also 11% less expensive than the state average, and according to a recent study, Cleveland is America’s fifth most affordable city for renters!

If you’re looking to purchase a house, this Ohio city is ranked among the top ten housing markets to watch.  In July 2024, the median home price for the greater metro was $231,000. That’s well below the national average of $413,000 in Q2 2024.

Population Growth

Cleveland’s population has decreased for the seventh year, dropping to 372,624 people in 2020. It’s part of a larger trend that goes back decades. Cuyahoga County has lost around 15,000 people since 2010.

However, from 2010 to 2020, the number of people aged 18 and older in Cuyahoga County grew by two percent. Despite this increase, the overall population of Cuyahoga County fell by 1.2 percent from 1.28 million in 2010 to 1.264 million in 2020. The increase in the working population is helping the area’s economic growth.

Since 2020, the decline in Cleveland’s loss appears to have stabilized, with just 2,500 residents leaving between 2021-2022. Through diversifying its economy, Cleveland is working to attract and retain its local talent.

Job Market

Cleveland has a long history of innovation in the manufacturing sector, dating back to the 1800s. Today, it is the home of one of the world’s greatest medical centers and five Fortune 1000 company headquarters. Top sectors include health care, finance, advanced manufacturing, and food science.

The benefits of a strong local economy are substantial. In that regard, Cleveland is ahead of many hot locations in the south. By the start of the recession in 2007, per capita GDP in the Sun Belt edged $1,400 higher than that in the Rust Belt. However, since then, metros in the Rust Belt have outpaced those in the Sun Belt, an advantage of $59,073 to $54,604 in median household income. 

Between 2015 and 2018, the Cleveland area’s per capita real GDP rose from $49,280 to $58,010, putting it in 70th place among 384 metros. Cincinnati was 81st; Columbus was 96th.

Medical work

Health care is a leading driver for work in Cleveland. The top private-sector employers are the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and the Metro Health System. Case Western Reserve University is also a medical university with a teaching hospital. For 26 years straight, the Cleveland Clinic has been named the best hospital in America for cardiology and heart surgery. It consistently ranks as one of the best hospitals in the world. Health care workers account for 21% of today’s metro workforce. But it’s not just nursing and medical care; Cleveland is a hotspot for biotech, with over 700 companies working in this branch.

Additional industries

Other leading employers include Key Corp, Case Western Reserve University, and Sherwin-Williams.

Applied Industrial Technologies, Cliffs Natural Resources, and Sherwin-Williams Company are all headquartered in Cleveland. Cleveland’s Federal Reserve Bank, located downtown, is one of only 12 Reserve Banks in the United States.

The return to space exploration is great news for the fuel cell business and NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.  It’s one example of advanced manufacturing helping Cleveland’s industry rebound.

Weather in Cleveland

Hopefully, you like it wet and snowy. Cleveland, Ohio, gets an average of 38 inches of rain per year. The region also sees about 54 inches of snow per year, about 66% more than the national average. Lake-effect snow gives the region higher-than-normal snowfall. Snow plows, shovels, and ice brushes are a must! 

High Precipitation is one reason why Cleveland’s climate is considered humid continental. So are the temperatures. The average summer high temperature is 82F, with lows reaching 66F in the summer and dropping to 22F in the winter.

Getting Around Town

The Regional Transit Authority is a resource for those living in Greater Cleveland. Known as “The Rapid,” the CRTA includes bus and rail services that promise fast travel and timely departures. The rapid rail system is extensive and runs throughout the city. The red line rail services run from Tower City Center to Hopkins International Airport every 15 minutes.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is Ohio’s largest airport, with 450 daily departures to over 60 US destinations on 12 airlines. The airport has direct flights to 14 cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Ft.Worth, and Miami. 

Several interstate highways meet in Cleveland. I-90 runs east-west while I-71 and I-77 drop into the heart of downtown. I-480 semi-circles Cleveland to help move traffic around. Just south of Cleveland is I-80, another east-west transportation network. 

Education

Cleveland City Schools is an urban school district. The district aims to provide education that is “research-based, data-driven, culturally responsive, and developmentally appropriate.” They are dedicated to providing grades PK3-8th grade with the arts integrated into core subject areas, preparing students for college readiness through the CITE program, and increasing access to gifted coursework through the FOCUS program. The district also has language immersion programs in Mandarin Chinese. 

However, depending on where you are moving to Cleveland, Ohio, your actual school district could be another one. Cuyahoga County has 30 independently operating school districts. Some, like Shaker Heights, Chagrin Falls, and Brecksville-Broadview, rank among the top school districts in Ohio. Those with families may want to research the districts and narrow their home search to ones of their liking.

Colleges and Universities

Several institutions of higher learning make Cleveland a hot spot for graduate studies. This includes three colleges and universities ranked in “Best Regional Universities” by US News and World Report, including the top-ranked Case Western Reserve University.

The Cuyahoga Community College District offers courses at all levels, from vocational training to associate degrees.

John Carroll University is a private Jesuit university that offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in business, engineering, arts, and sciences. It also features an honors program for gifted students.

Case Western Reserve University is a private research institution that provides bachelor’s and graduate studies in the colleges of arts and sciences, engineering, medicine, and dental medicine. It also runs a joint-MD/Ph.D. program with nearby University Hospitals.

Cleveland State University is a public university that draws more than 14,000 students to its campus each year. It offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees across multiple fields. It also has doctoral degrees in dental medicine and business administration. 

The Cleveland Institute of Art is a prominent art school dedicated to game design and illustration and has an internationally renowned animation department. 

If you want to pursue a career as a professional musician, the Cleveland Institute of Music is one of only seven conservatories in the United States.

Cleveland Real Estate

Cleveland is experiencing a real estate boom, with specific areas seeing home prices rise by 25% year-over-year. About half the residential real estate is renter-occupied, so real estate investors have a substantial opportunity.

In terms of apartment demand in Greater Cleveland, downtown was the undisputed king. Downtown accounted for a third of all apartment demand in the area in 2021. Average rent prices increased 11% from 2021 to 2022, signifying market demand. 

Cleveland’s real estate market was competitive in 2024. Cuyahoga County homes had a median 30 days on the market in July 2024. With an average sale price of $279,108, it remains a more affordable area to buy a home.

Even though the number of listings was down at that time (following national trends), Cleveland remains a top market to buy. Low housing costs are the primary attraction. Even with month-over-month and year-over-year price gains, it remains an affordable city to buy a home.

The September 2024 median listing home price was $140,000, a 17% increase year-over-year. The properties ranged in price from $2,500 to $1.8 million. That included vacant lots, historic homes, and newer condominiums. 

Cleveland does have pockets with a lot of empty homes. However, these are ripe for investment and rehabilitation for those who enjoy fixing up properties. Additionally, some neighborhoods are more in demand than others, which changes local pricing. Ohio City had a median home price of $300,000, while Edgewater homes were priced at a median of $150,000.

Cleveland Neighborhoods

Multiple neighborhoods in Cleveland showcase the city’s diverse character and housing options. Find architectural styles, groceries, and restaurants showcasing how people came to Cleveland from around the world. They also have distinct advantages and things to do. A few top neighborhoods in Cleveland are:

• Ohio City – A revitalized historic district near downtown known for its craft breweries, trendy restaurants, and the famous West Side Market. 
• Tremont – An artsy, eclectic area filled with galleries, unique restaurants, and boutique shops. Tremont is home to the iconic Christmas Story House and has great views of downtown.
• Detroit-Shoreway – This neighborhood boasts the Gordon Square Arts District, with theaters, art galleries, and diverse dining options. It’s a hub for culture and creativity.
• University Circle – A cultural and educational epicenter featuring world-class museums, universities, and the renowned Cleveland Orchestra. Students rub shoulders with art enthusiasts.
• Shaker Square – A historic area with a unique blend of urban and suburban vibes. Shaker Square features a farmers market and a mix of shops and restaurants.
• Cleveland Heights – An inner-ring suburb known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and arts scene. Homes here have character!
• Edgewater – Found along Lake Erie, this neighborhood is prized for its beach and park spaces, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Things To Do in Cleveland

Make the most out of living in the “Forest City.” Cleveland rocks, both musically and with an ever-growing arts scene. It may have a large medical community, but all those people need something to do when they’re off work!

Cultural Scene

The city has a rich multicultural tradition, adding diversity and cultural activities to Cleveland. For example, historic Little Italy has pizza shops and neighborhood festivals rooted in Catholic traditions, like The Feast of the Assumption. Asiatown, based in the city’s heart, is home to various restaurants. It hosts the yearly Asian Festival, a top Cleveland event. Tremont throws an annual Greek Fest, while St. Patrick’s Day in Kamm’s Corners can’t be missed.

Cleveland is home to the country’s second-largest Slovene population and the historic Slavic Village. To mark the end of winter, they throw Kurentovanje. It’s also where the annual Pierogi Dash takes place.

Cleveland has also given us leaders in the African-American community. The Karamu House is the oldest black performing theater in the United States, dating back over a century. Midwest Living Magazine has recognized it as the finest theater in the Midwest.

Bustling Food Scene

Did you know Cleveland is rated the seventh greatest food city in the United States by Time? Cleveland’s culinary scene will surely have something to satisfy your cravings with a blend of trendy new eateries and neighborhood classics. Michael Symon, a Food Network celebrity, is a native of Cleveland. In 2024, he has two outstanding restaurants in the city, extending a streak dating back to 1997 with Lola, his first restaurant in Tremont.

Several distinct cuisines are associated with the city. Generations of Clevelanders have loved Mitchell’s Blue Cosmo ice cream and Corbo’s cannolis. The classic Slyman’s Deli has been a Cleveland institution since 1963. Debate which restaurants serve the best pierogis and krauts.

As an immigrant city, Cleveland’s neighborhoods have iconic food destinations. Choose from Little Italy, Slavic Village, Kamm’s Corners, and Asiatown. Pierogi, Polish boys, and paczki, brought by generations of Eastern European immigrants, have become the most recognized Cleveland cuisine.

The West Side Market is a must-see destination. Go hungry, though. Locals buy specialty deli meat, locally grown produce, walleye caught out of the lake, or a complete meal from one of its in-house restaurants. The market vendors showcase the beauty of diversity, with vendors selling hot dogs, Mexican, crepes, pizza, and Cambodian fare.

Cleveland’s beer scene is hopping! It’s appeared on numerous lists as a top beer city in the United States. Great Lakes Brewing ships around the region and is a known Ohio beer. You can also discover several wineries and bars to enjoy a glass of wine. It’s the flagship craft brewer on a scene that now has micro, European-style, and other specialty makers. And while no one is growing vineyards inside the city limits, northeast Ohio is a wine-growing country. Find restaurants and shops selling bottles from local vintners. 

Parks and Recreation

Cleveland has many nicknames, one of which is “Forest City.” Back in the day, the land around the city was a forest as far as you could see. But even today, the city takes pride in its tree canopy and green spaces. Cleveland has 18 nature reserves, 100 hiking trails, eight lakefront parks, and five nature centers draped around its edges. 

Hike through the peaceful sounds of a wooded river amid an urban wilderness at Euclid Creek Reservation. Explore forests, meadows, and marshes on Rocky River Reservation, where you can discover more. Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park to see the impressive Cuyahoga Falls. In the winter, the national park and Chagrin Falls Reservation have cross-country skiing trails, leveraging the area’s high snowfall.

The Cleveland Cultural Gardens combines a recreational area and a place to reflect, drawing inspiration from the gardens’ namesake. At Squire’s Castle, explore an ancient castle perched in a contemporary park. Also, don’t forget to catch a concert on the lake or dine at Voinovich Bicentennial Park for some quiet.

Water Sports

If you enjoy swimming, boating, and other water activities, Cleveland may be the city for you. Locals on Lake Erie have many ways to get out on that turquoise water. Go sailing and fishing on excursions from Wendy Park. Visit Edgewater Beach for swimming, boating, and beach volleyball. Amusement-seekers will enjoy the Euclid Beach Park & Wildwater Kingdom waterpark.

Dog Friendly Cleveland

Pamper your furry family member at Cleveland’s dog spas and dog parks. Edgewater Park has a waterfront dog park for your four-legged friends to cool off on those warm summer days. The Downtown Dog Park is a fenced-in space in the heart of downtown. Terrestrial Brewing Company is pet-friendly, and owners can bring their pups to sit on the porch. Other restaurants welcome pets; call ahead if you’re not sure.

Top Cleveland Attractions

Not sure what to do on a blustery winter day? Visit one of the many entertainment options, starting with world-renowned museums like The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Take a trip back in time to the days of Elvis, Janis Joplin, and Madonna at this legendary museum. On the third floor, visit the Hall of Fame for a personal tour. If you “Rent the Rock” for a night, you may hold private events like a job party, conference, or wedding. 

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland rocks! Based in a historic millionaire’s mansion, its interactive exhibits are broken into seven collections. Kids love the water lab and the huge playground.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is home to one of the most successful breeding programs for endangered Asian elephants in the world. It is rated one of the Top 25 Zoos in the US.

Cleveland Botanical Garden features ten acres of outdoor gardens and a year-round greenhouse. The gardens showcase plant and flower collections that reflect the diversity of the world’s regions.

Great Lakes Science Center, which has received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, features interactive exhibits on science and technology, including biotech and an Apollo capsule. It runs events like a robotics challenge and has a massive theater. 

Take a William G. Mather Steamship tour. The former Lake Erie steamer is docked and restored as a museum ship.

Shopping in Cleveland

Cleveland offers a diverse shopping experience, from big brand names at outdoor malls to unique ethnic and locally made arts and crafts.

The Galleria at Erieview features 100 specialty shops and services, including Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Harry Winston at its two-floor shopping mall. 

Find 150 luxury brands at The Beachwood Place Mall. Couture names like Salvatore Ferragamo and Hermès are alongside popular stores like H&M and Forever 21.

The West Side Market is a public indoor/outdoor market with over 100 sellers selling unique crafts, decorations, food options, and clothing. The marketplace, which dates back to 1840, is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the city’s first public market.

The Arcade Cleveland is a two-story shopping complex in historic Victorian surroundings. Its two structures mix boutique, big-box, and one-of-a-kind shopping possibilities. The nine-story buildings are connected to a five-story arcade lit by natural light through a huge glass skylight. The structure dates to the 1800s.

The 5th Street Arcades have operated since the 1890s and provide a wide range of goods, from shoes to jewelry, apparel, and specialty tea in a picturesque Romanesque setting. If you’re seeking high-end luxury shopping experiences, this is the place to go; it’s chock full of elegant boutiques and brand names.

Art and Culture

Creativity is the hallmark of modern Cleveland living. You’ll want to check it out when moving to Cleveland, Ohio. Start with the Cleveland Museum of Art and a world-class collection that spans 5,000 years. The museum has over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing historical and contemporary exhibitions. Eight changing exhibitions highlight works from several countries and periods.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa) is the only contemporary art museum in Cleveland. The dramatic mirrored building highlights new works in multiple mediums, including digital and electronic art.

Playhouse Square is home to the second-largest theater district in the US. The Theater District is downtown. Its entertainment options include live theater productions, concerts, circus performances, movies, and more. 

The city of Cleveland has a storied history, and the museums throughout the city are devoted to celebrating it! Connect with history locally at the Cleveland History Center, which should not be missed.

Take a trip back in time at A Christmas Story House Museum. It’s open all year but especially popular during the holidays! 

The Cleveland Museum of National History is another must-see, where you can learn about animals, dinosaurs, and evolutionary medicine. The museum is famous for its extensive collections spanning all countries and eras. The permanent collection includes art from Europe, Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Africa, China, South America, and the Ancient Americas.

The Cleveland Orchestra is considered one of the finest orchestras in America. Most concerts are at Severance Hall in University Circle.

Sports and Sports Teams

Cleveland has an ardent fanbase for its local professional sports teams! The Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA) play at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Cleveland Browns (NFL) play at the “dawg pound,” or the FirstEnergy Stadium. The Cleveland Guardians (MLB) play at Progressive Field, known lovingly as “The Jake,” and the Cleveland Monsters (AHL Hockey) play at Quicken Loans Arena.

What is near Cleveland?

Besides all the entertainment and food options in the city limits, you have some great places around the Cleveland metro to live or explore.

Lake Erie offers beaches, boating, and fishing. On either side of Cleveland are popular summertime beachfront retreats, like Geneva-by-the-Lake and Sandusky. Interstate 90 runs east-west near lake side, so it’s easy to get to these destinations.

Rocky River Reservation is one of the gems in the Cleveland Metroparks system, located just west of downtown Cleveland. It follows the course of the Rocky River, with miles of well-maintained trails like the challenging Fort Hill Stairs.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the few parks near a large urban center. Its 33,000 acres cover a lush river valley with steep ravines and wildflower meadows. Its natural beauty lures people to sights like Brandywine Falls and the Ledges Overlook.

Multiple suburbs make up the Cleveland metro. These include the master-planned Shaker Heights, the popular Chagrin Falls, and the city with the state’s best school district, Solon. Other top suburbs in Cleveland include Garfield Heights, Cleveland Heights, Parma Heights, and Lakewood. Lake County includes Willoughby and Timberlake.

Akron is the next-largest city close to Cleveland. The former “Rubber Capital of the World” has the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and the Akron Art Museum.

Moving to Cleveland, Ohio

Many people love visiting the city of Cleveland, but not many want to move here because they assume it is too expensive or crowded. The truth about moving here is that you can have a very high quality of life for a pretty low price point! 

Treat yourself to life in Cleveland, where each day is a rewarding experience. The city along Lake Erie offers many activities, sights, and things to do. From the affordable housing market to cultural attractions and outdoor activities, you can find something that fits your lifestyle. It is easy to live in Cleveland and enjoy life here, just like in other major US cities.

Updated September 2024