With a thriving economy, innovative industries, several new developments, a booming startup scene and a lower cost of living, it’s no wonder why Cleveland is becoming one of the most charismatic and flourishing cities in Ohio.
Home to over 2.20 million residents, the second most populous city of Ohio offers some of the recognized sports teams, long park trails, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, miles of Lake Erie shoreline, and more that counts on Cleveland to be an ideal place to live, work and retire in.
Is relocating to Cleveland what’s going on in your mind? Check out our blog post to make the best possible decision of relocation to “The Land. ”
1. What is Cleveland Ohio known for?
Cleveland, Ohio is highly eminent for its iconic museum, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which has a rich history and influence on rock music.
Moreover, it has various cultural institutions, such as the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Orchestra that portray the city’s lavish arts.
The city has brilliant sports teams including the Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, and Guardians.
Besides that, the city hosts the best healthcare institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center.
2. Is Cleveland Ohio Safe?
Cleveland, Ohio has an extreme crime violent and property crime rate of 73 and 75, which is not only higher than the state average of 18 and 3 but also than the national average of 23 and 35, respectively.

Some of the most common crimes committed in Cleveland include assault, murder, rape, robbery, burglary and Larceny.
The chances of becoming a crime victim in Cleveland is 1 in 60 in violent crime and one in 20 in property crimes.
It’s obvious that higher population rates come with more crime scenes, and this is among the reasons not to move to Cleveland that expats need to consider.
When compared with Columbus, it has a lower overall crime rate than Cleveland with 29 and 57 violent and property crime rates respectively, which is slightly higher than the national average’s homicide rate.
According to US News and World Report 2023, Cleveland ranks as the #7 most dangerous city to live in the US.
Cleveland has a serious problem with homicides, which requires attention to ensure the safety and security of its residents and visitors.
Thorough CCTV surveillance, community engagement inventiveness, targeting hotspots, focusing on crime prevention, and increased law enforcement programs can help lower the crime rates in Cleveland.
All in all, Cleveland might become a great place to live if you remain cautious of your surroundings and take extra precautions for your safety.
Avoid walking alone, especially during the night and stay away from crowded and unfamiliar regions.
Study the comparison table below to learn about the crime rate in Cleveland vs. Ohio vs. the US.
Crime type | Cleveland | Ohio | US |
---|---|---|---|
Violent crime | 73 | 18 | 23 |
Property crime | 75 | 36 | 35 |
Source: https://planning.clevelandohio.gov/cwp/saf_trend.php
3. Things to know before moving to Cleveland, OH
This blog post compiles all pertinent information that one should be aware of before considering living in Cleveland, to make a more informed decision.
4. Living in Cleveland OH
Founded by Moses Cleaveland in 1796, The city of Cleveland sits in Cuyahoga County situated in the northeastern region of Ohio beside the southern shoreline of Erie Lake.

It’s a place for those who desire to settle down in a diverse metropolitan city with a laid-back lifestyle.
In the early 19th century, Cleveland was the 5th largest city in the US with thousands of residents and manufacturing jobs that declined due to various reasons creating large gaps in these sectors.
But today, in the 20th century it is known to be amongst the 21 best places to live and one of the cheapest cities to live in America.
Life in Cleveland, predominantly its downtown and neighbourhoods is quite diverse, livable, and outstanding.
Full proximity to quality healthcare, a bustling economy and job opportunities, top-rated education options, and many fun things to do are what you can get in Cleveland.
5. Cost of Living in Cleveland Ohio
Cleveland receives a cost of living value of 72, which is 17% lower than the cost of living in Ohio and 28% lower than the national average.
The median annual salary in Cleveland averages $60,000 for a single individual and $89,000 for a family of four.
Eliminating all the misconceptions of having a higher cost of living in large cities, Cleveland cuts all the craps as it is a great place for those looking for a reasonable city to reside in.
Aside from various miscellaneous expenses, other things like groceries, transportation, utility costs, food, and housing expenses remain lower than the national average.
The average cost of living for a single person is $1,800 per month, and for a family of four, it is $5,511 per month.
These figures include rent, which is one of the most significant expenses in any city in the United States.
Check out the following average cost of living in Cleveland Ohio in comparison with state average, Ohio and US average.
Cost of living | Cleveland | Ohio | US |
---|---|---|---|
Overall Expenses | 72 | 83 | 100 |
Groceries | 94 | 96 | 100 |
Housing | 24 | 62 | 100 |
Utilities | 95 | 100 | 100 |
Transportation | 91 | 84 | 100 |
Healthcare | 83 | 89 | 100 |
Miscellaneous | 112 | 89 | 100 |
Source: https://traveltables.com/country/united-states/city/cleveland-oh/cost-of-living
6. Taxes in Cleveland OH
Cleveland Ohio has a combined sales tax rate of 8% (a combination of state, and city sales taxes), an income tax rate averaging 2.50% on the annual salary and a property tax rate of 0.99% of the asserted value.

The city’s tax system ranks #37 among all the US states according to the State Business Tax Climate Index 2023.
Cleveland is a tax-friendly state, even though it has a higher tax rate when compared to that of the national average, residents find it affordable to pay in April of every year.
However, it doesn’t impose any sales taxes on its residents. When compared with other Ohio cities, Cleveland ranks #3 after Harrison Township and South Euclid in terms of highest tax rates.
Check out the particulars of taxes paid in the city of Cleveland Ohio.
Particulars | Cleveland Ohio |
---|---|
Sales tax | 8% |
Property tax | 1.4% |
Income tax | 2.5%-3.9% |
Source: ttps://www.avalara.com/taxrates/en/state-rates/ohio/cities/cleveland.html
7. Housing in Cleveland Ohio
The cost of housing and real-estate market in Cleveland averages $98,000 which is 76% lower than the national average.
Cleveland and Ohio are placed alongside Lake, neither against water nor mountains, making it easy to build homes in any direction.
Besides that, the rental prices are also quite affordable and readily available ranging between $900-$2000, for studio to 3 bedroom apartments respectively.
They say, “Food, clothes and home are the most essential part of a person’s life” and this is what Cleveland fulfills, an affordable home that urges people to move to Cleveland Ohio.
With less than half the cost of the national average, the housing and real-estate market in Cleveland is booming but not that terrible.
Houses and lands still get several offers and sell 5-10% below their average price. Usually, it takes around 40-60 days to get sold once placed on the market.
Housing costs | Cleveland, Ohio | US |
---|---|---|
Median home cost | $97,300 | $338,100 |
Rental cost of a studio | $680 | $1080 |
Rental cost of 1 bedroom | $770 | $1180 |
Rental cost of 2 bedroom | $940 | $1430 |
Rental cost of 3 bedroom | $1220 | $1860 |
Source: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/publications/pdf/scanned/scan-chma-ClevelandOhio-1966.pdf
8. Weather conditions in Cleveland
Cleveland has a warm continental type of climate featuring freezy winters, hot summers, frequent thunderstorms, severe snowfall and mostly cloudy skies year around.

The average temperature in the summer remains around 80°F rarely rising above 90°F and the average winter highs average around 22°F and rarely drop below 5°F. June, August and September are the most desirable months for Cleveland in a year.
Cleveland Ohio gets four distinct seasons; with summers lasting for 3.6 months, winters for 3.2 months, spring for 2 months and fall season.
On average, Cleveland gets 168 sunny days, 40 inches of rainfall, and 55 inches of snowfall every year.
While January is the hottest month of the year with an average temperature of around 85 degrees, January is the coldest month of the year with an average temperature of around 22 degrees.
Months | Weather conditions in Cleveland Ohio |
---|---|
December-April | Winter begins with freezing temperatures. It snows in Ohio and Cleveland during these months. The average temperature ranges between 40o-6oF. |
April-May | Mild, wet and pleasant weather.Occurrence of scattered rainfall and thunderstorms. Snowfall is rare. The onset of spring and the blooming of flowers and leaves.The length of the day increases. The mean temperature ranges from 30-60oF. |
September | There is a transition from spring to autumn. The nights are generally cool. Moderate rainfall and thunderstorms. Humidity level is minimum. The average temperature varies between 75oF and 55oF. |
June-November | June, July and August are the summer months. The humidity level is moderate. Rainfall gradually declines. There are cooler days during November. The average temperature varies between 85oF and 40oF. |
9. Things to do in Cleveland
Spending time on the Lake Erie banks, visiting the great natural reserve and best amusement parks in Ohio, taking a roll on the roller coaster rides or catching a show or concert at the theatres, you can’t ignore the wider side of things around here to do and explore.
Listing puts some fun, and relaxing things to see in Cleveland and do for different age groups.
Kids | Watch dinosaur skeletons at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Take a tour of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Learn about science and technology at the Great Lakes Science Center. Play and enjoy at Memphis Kiddie Park. Visit the A Christmas Story House. |
Families | Enjoy at Cedar Point Amusement Park. Book tickets to watch sports events at Progressive Field. Discover the International Women’s Air & Space Museum. Wander at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Taste delicious food at Little Italy Cleveland. |
Couples | Spend a night in a Candlelight Concert. Plan for window shopping at The Arcade. Take a walk at the waterside in Edgewater Park. Explore wildlife at Rocky River Reservation. Visit the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft & Magick. |
Seniors | Roam around Cleveland Public Square. Go for a walk through The Holden Arboretum. Spot an event at the Wolstein Center. Have some delicacies at Heinen’s of Downtown Cleveland. Go for a picnic at Gordon Park. |
10. Cost of Moving to Cleveland, OH
The average cost of moving to Cleveland is around $290. Moreover, the mean cost of moving a one-bedroom home size in/out of Cleveland ranges from $1,400 to $6,000.

August is the best time of the year to move to Cleveland. It usually takes 2-5 hours to shift locally within Cleveland.
If you are relocating to Cleveland with your vehicle, you need to renew your driver’s license within six months. The Ohio driver’s license renewal cost is around $27-$50.
Here is a list of top moving companies in Cleveland, Ohio that will make your relocation smooth and hassle-free.
- A to Z Moving and Driving LLC
- Moving Ahead Services
- Arpin Van Lines
- North American Van Lines
- U-Pack
- Bellhop Moving
- Leaders Moving & Storage Co.
11. Pros and Cons of Living in Cleveland OH
Cleveland, Ohio is the perfect city to live in if you want a diverse urban area that is relatively safe and excellent for raising a family.
While the city has so much to offer, it may not be suitable for everyone. Hence, it is crucial to do a little research before relocating to Ohio’s largest city, Cleveland.
Pros
- Great restaurants for foodies.
- Cheap rental prices.
- Good healthcare system
- Near Lake Erie.
- The cost of living is moderate.
- A lot of job opportunities.
- An ideal place to raise a family.
- Great place for sports fans.
Cons
- High crime rates.
- Low mean income.
- Unpredictable weather throughout the year.
- One of the most racist places in Ohio.
12. Best Neighborhoods in Cleveland
Cleveland is an incredible area full of amenities all around the city. However, numerous neighbourhoods of Cleveland are mind-blowing and safe destinations to live in.

Relocating to a new place can be a challenging task. So, you can check out the list of some best neighborhoods in Cleveland, Ohio before making a move.
1. University Circle
University Circle is one of the most amazing neighbourhoods in Cleveland for young professionals and students.
The city boasts popular museums, nationally-ranked hospitals, and top-rated schools and universities.
Besides that, it offers fun parks, a botanical garden, the Cleveland Orchestra, casual bars, and all-year events and activities. There are great residents and the crime rate is moderate.
2. Rocky River
Rocky River lies in the western part of Cleveland. It is an ideal community for those who are nature and outdoor activities lovers.
The place has beautiful Colonial-style homes, quiet and safe streets, and high-rated schools.
It is home to Emerald Necklace Marina which offers various opportunities such as boating, kayaking, diving, biking, hiking, and fishing.
3. Tremont
Tremont is a booming neighbourhood of Cleveland. The city is filled with nice restaurants to eat and drink. Moreover, you will find various affordable housing options.
It has a long chain of boutiques and art galleries, Christmas Story House Museum and St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral.
4. MidTown
Midtown is considered the most affordable neighbourhood in Cleveland. It is a growing area that lies between downtown and University Circle.
It is a hub of CSU grad students, medical students, and employees of the Cleveland Clinic. It has many popular attractions such as Agora Theater and Ballroom, Children’s Museum of Cleveland, etc.
5. Ohio city
Ohio City is packed with everything you want. You can easily find new apartments, housing options and historic homes.
The region is widely known for the West Side Market which offers fresh meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, gifts, and crafts.
There are more than hundreds of local and independent businesses. Additionally, the crime rate is low.
Moving to Cleveland, OH FAQ’s
Can you live in Cleveland without a car?
Yes, you can get around Cleveland without a car. The city has a transit system, called the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority and the RTA Rapid Transit. Cleveland’s Regional Transit Authority provides free bus services on working days. Additionally, RTA Rapid Transit runs rail lines among the communities and neighbourhoods that make travelling easy.
What’s the population of Cleveland?
With a population of 3,72,000, Cleveland is the second most densely populated city in Ohio. African American migrants are commonly found in Cleveland from other immigrants.
What’s the ranking of Cleveland’s education system?
Cleveland stands on the rank 320 in the education system in the US.
Conclusion
Cleveland offers a lot of features and amenities for a healthy living to call it home like access to amusement parks and tourist spots, proximity to beaches, affordable cost of living, vibrant nightlife, best healthcare facilities and more.
With some concerning cons to taking care of like a higher crime rate, poor air quality, a lot of snow, and the emergence of bronchitis and asthmatic issues, one can easily tackle them by reading our blogpost information.
Hopefully, you can take care of these and easily decide whether living in the land is right for you!