Known as the ‘Forest City’, Cleveland is the largest city in Cuyahoga County and the second-largest city in Ohio. The two most prominent industries in the state are manufacturing and finance. In terms of employment, Ohio’s largest sectors are trade, transportation, utilities, and health and education. These showcase the city’s strong economic power and the vast array of jobs in solid industries.
Ohio has several notable neighborhoods and districts you should know before moving. From the urban living of Downtown Cleveland and the cultural hub of Ohio City to the artistic neighborhood of Tremont, the educational and lively University Circle, and the family-friends suburbs of Shaker Heights. In this Moving to Cleveland Ohio City Guide, we look at everything from the housing market, whether you should buy or rent, to employment opportunities and entertainment you can expect.
Preparing to Move to Cleveland Ohio
Before moving to Cleveland, do your research to ensure a smooth transition using a professional moving company. To understand community dynamics, begin by exploring neighborhoods and gaining insights from platforms like Reddit, Nextdoor, and local Facebook groups. Real estate websites offer valuable information on home prices and rental rates. Check utility costs to help you budget effectively.
Assess the job market using platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn Jobs to identify key industries and available positions. For families with school-age children, research school ratings and nearby healthcare facilities. Consider public transportation quality, seasonal weather patterns, and local amenities. Once you’ve decided on the move and confirmed plans, it’s time to address these essential tasks:
Find a Reputable Moving Company in Cleveland
Finding a reputable moving company in Cleveland is crucial for a smooth relocation experience. Consider B2B Moving, a seasoned team that handles every aspect of your move with expertise. From packing and organizing your belongings to ensuring a seamless transition, they take care of it all, allowing you to relax knowing your move is in capable hands.
Arrange Child or Pet Care for Moving Day
For peace of mind on moving day, arrange childcare or pet care well in advance. This ensures your children or pets are safe and entertained while you focus on the move. Whether scheduling a sleepover with friends for your child or booking a stay at a trusted kennel for your pet, planning minimizes stress. It ensures a smoother moving process for everyone involved.
Pack In Advance
Start organizing and decluttering as soon as your move is confirmed. While you may wait to begin packing everything, sorting through your belongings early on helps streamline the packing process later. Consider selling or recycling items you no longer need to lighten your load and potentially earn extra cash. This preparation ensures that when it’s time to pack, you can do so efficiently without the last-minute rush.
Arrange for Time Off
Once your move-in date is set, request time off from work in advance. This avoids scheduling conflicts and ensures you have the necessary days off to facilitate your move to Cleveland, Ohio. Proactively managing your work schedule prevents any last-minute setbacks that could delay your relocation.
Change Your Address
When you settle into your new home in Cleveland, promptly update your address with relevant authorities and service providers. Notify your banks, DMV for your driver’s license and car registration, insurance companies, utility providers, internet and phone services, and other entities.
Cleveland Neighborhoods
Before moving to Cleveland, you should research the neighborhoods to find which is best for your situation and who you will live with. The central neighborhoods include:
Downtown Cleveland
Downtown Cleveland is a vibrant and urban area with modern amenities, plenty of culture and entertainment, and a touch of historical charm. There is a thriving theater district and sports scene, plenty of restaurants and bars, and a wide range of housing options, from high-rise apartments to luxury condos, available to buy or rent.
Ohio City
Ohio City is a cultural hub and local favorite place to live. One of Cleveland’s oldest neighborhoods, Ohio City offers a vibrant urban lifestyle packed with historic charm and plenty of places for families, single occupants, and working professionals to live.
Tremont
With an artistic community and historic charm, Tremont is known for being a beautiful place to live. It has well-preserved 19th-century Victorian homes, quaint tree-lined streets, and a thriving cultural scene. There are many places to eat and drink and a tight-knit community feel.
University Circle
The area has educational and cultural institutions, so it’s no surprise that this is an excellent, vibrant place to live, packed with things to do and see. Most notable are the world-class cultural institutions such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
Shaker Heights
When looking for family-friendly suburbs in Ohio, look no further. With a wide array of places to live, good schools, plenty of shops and things to do, and a safe reputation, it’s a no-brainer.
Housing in Cleveland
According to Redfin.com, ‘In June 2024, Cleveland home prices were up 7.8% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $125K. On average, homes in Cleveland sell after 28 days on the market compared to 29 days last year.’ The housing market is profitable, and plenty of places to buy or rent. One of the critical decisions when moving to Cleveland is whether to buy or rent a home. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Buying
Purchasing a house requires a substantial upfront investment, including a sizable down payment. However, once you own the property, you can customize it. Buying is often better if you know where you want to live and are prepared for the financial commitment. It offers long-term stability and the potential for building equity.
Renting a Home
Renting involves lower upfront costs, making it an attractive option if you’re unsure about the area or prefer flexibility. While renting eliminates the need for a large down payment, it may limit your ability to personalize the space and might not offer exactly what you want. Renting is ideal to test out a neighborhood before making a long-term commitment.
Considerations for Finding the Right Home
When deciding on a home, consider how long you plan to stay and the space you’ll need, especially if you anticipate a growing family. Evaluate the proximity to local amenities, public transportation, and the quality of outdoor space. These factors will help ensure that your new home meets your immediate needs and future goals.
Employment Opportunities
Cleveland is home to various major employers, contributing significantly to the city’s robust job market. Notable companies with a strong presence in Cleveland include:
- Cleveland Clinic. Renowned globally for its high-quality healthcare services and innovative medical research, the Cleveland Clinic is one of the city’s largest employers and a leading institution in the healthcare sector.
- Amazon. With its fulfillment centers and corporate offices, Amazon plays a significant role in Cleveland’s economy and offers numerous opportunities in logistics, technology, and management.
- Sherwin-Williams. A significant player in the paint and coatings industry, Sherwin-Williams is headquartered in Cleveland and provides a range of positions in research, manufacturing, and corporate functions.
- Nestlé. A global leader in food and beverages, Nestlé operates in Cleveland and contributes to the city’s employment landscape with roles in manufacturing, research, and corporate services.
- Ferro Corporation. Specializing in advanced materials and chemicals, Ferro Corporation offers positions in various sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, and research and development.
Cleveland offers a robust employment environment with opportunities across various industries and competitive starting salaries. The city’s low unemployment rate and significant presence of major employers make it an appealing destination for job seekers and professionals looking to build their careers.
Education and Schools
The Cleveland School District, Ohio’s third-largest public school system, serves a diverse student body of over 36,000. The district focuses on providing quality education and offers a range of programs designed to meet the needs of its students.
Notable Schools in the District
· Horizon Montessori School. Known for its innovative approach to education, Horizon Montessori emphasizes hands-on learning and student independence. It follows the Montessori method, which encourages self-directed activity and collaborative work. This school provides a nurturing environment for students from early childhood through middle school.
· Lake Ridge Academy. A private, co-educational day school, Lake Ridge Academy offers a robust academic program from preschool through grade 12. The school is recognized for its strong academic curriculum, arts programs, and commitment to developing well-rounded students. Its smaller class sizes and personalized approach to education make it a notable choice for families seeking an individualized learning experience.
Higher Education Institutions
· Cleveland State University (CSU).CSU is a comprehensive, public research university offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement, CSU provides students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and service-learning experiences. The university’s location in downtown Cleveland offers students access to a vibrant urban environment.
· Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). The leading private research university is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and groundbreaking research. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, law, and the arts and sciences. CWRU is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and its contributions to research and innovation.
When choosing a school in Cleveland, consider academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and the overall school environment. Researching each school’s curriculum, teaching philosophy, and community involvement can help families make informed decisions that align with their educational goals and values.
Healthcare Facilities
Cleveland is renowned for its exceptional healthcare facilities, with the Cleveland Clinic standing out as a premier institution. Recognized globally as one of the top healthcare systems, the Cleveland Clinic is renowned for its advanced medical technology, groundbreaking research, and high-quality patient care. It consistently ranks among the best hospitals in the world, offering a wide range of specialized services and treatments.
Transportation and Commuting
Cleveland has an excellent public transportation network featuring a comprehensive system of buses and rapid transit trains. The city’s public transport includes frequent services such as the rail line connecting downtown Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, which operates every 15 minutes. This efficient link ensures easy and convenient travel to and from the airport.
In addition to the airport connection, Cleveland’s public transit system offers a range of other regular bus and rail routes, making it simple to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) manages these services, providing reliable and accessible transportation options for residents and visitors.
Culture and Entertainment
Cleveland is a vibrant entertainment hub with a rich cultural scene and diverse activities to enjoy.
Museums
Cleveland boasts an impressive array of museums catering to various interests. The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its extensive collection of artworks spanning 6,000 years of history, with pieces from across the globe. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame celebrates the history of rock and roll with interactive exhibits and memorabilia. For science enthusiasts, the Great Lakes Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and a NASA Glenn Visitor Center.
Theaters
The city’s theater scene is equally robust. The Cleveland Play House is one of the country’s oldest regional theaters, showcasing a range of dramatic productions. Playhouse Square, the largest performing arts center outside New York City, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances. The Karamu House is another historic venue known for its commitment to African American theater and arts.
Dining and Cuisine
Cleveland’s culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from upscale dining to casual eateries. Popular spots include The West Side Market, a historic public market with a wide range of local foods, and E. 4th Street, a bustling area known for its various restaurants and bars. Iron Chef Michael Symon’s restaurants provide a taste of acclaimed local cuisine.
Festivals and Events
Cleveland hosts festivals throughout the year to celebrate its cultural diversity and community spirit. Notable events include the Cleveland International Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world, and the Cleveland Comic Con, which attracts fans of comic books and pop culture.
Nightlife
The city’s nightlife scene offers something for everyone. Ohio City and the Warehouse District are known for lively bars and clubs. The Flats East Bank features a range of nightspots with views of the Cuyahoga River and downtown skyline.
Outdoor and Recreational Activities
The Cleveland Metroparks system offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Cleveland Cultural Gardens provide tranquil spaces for relaxation and exploration.
Make Your Best Move with B2B Moving
As you can see, Cleveland, Ohio, is undoubtedly a wonderful destination to move to. It’s affordable, has a wide range of employment opportunities, a wonderful foodie scene, and a diverse history to learn about. By moving to Cleveland, you will get the best of both worlds when it comes to a vibrant destination that also has plenty of things to do and is family-friendly.
If you are thinking of moving to Cleveland, Ohio, and want a smooth transition, then get in touch with B2B Moving today. We are only a call away and happy to answer any questions to ensure your move is as stress-free as possible. Download our Master Your Move Checklist for everything you need to plan and navigate your move.
