When people think of Cleveland, they often picture its bustling downtown and vibrant cultural scene, but the true essence of living in Cleveland extends beyond the urban core. The suburbs of Cleveland are diverse residential areas that offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city's rich amenities. These Cleveland suburbs are spread across various parts of the metropolitan area, each with its own unique character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Cleveland suburbs—from charming lakefront communities to peaceful suburban retreats—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you're searching for the perfect apartment in Cleveland or curious about the different Cleveland neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of Cleveland to call home.
Cost of living in Cleveland
Before we dive into the top Cleveland suburbs, let's cover how much it costs to live in Cleveland. The overall cost of living in Cleveland is 9% lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to call home. Housing is a key factor, with the median sale price for a home in Cleveland at $125,000, significantly lower than the national average of $432,657. Rent is closely aligned with national averages, with the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Cleveland coming in at $1,536, just slightly above the national average of $1,514.
While some suburbs around Cleveland offer more affordable options, others can be more expensive, providing a range of lifestyle and housing opportunities depending on your budget and preferences. Here, we'll explore a variety of top suburbs, each offering something unique for potential residents.
1. Shaker Heights
Known for: Historic homes, cultural diversity, excellent schools
Shaker Heights, located just east of downtown Cleveland, is one of the city’s most prestigious suburbs. Known for its historic architecture and tree-lined streets, Shaker Heights offers a blend of traditional elegance and modern conveniences. The city is home to excellent schools, both public and private, and has a strong sense of community. With a variety of housing options ranging from grand estates to more modest homes, Shaker Heights attracts a wide range of residents.
Population: 28,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,111
Median home sale price: $332,700
Shaker Heights transportation scores: Walk Score 45, Bike Score 45, Transit Score 47
Apartments for rent in Shaker Heights, OH | Houses for rent in Shaker Heights, OH | Homes for sale in Shaker Heights, OH
2. Lakewood
Known for: Vibrant arts scene, walkability, lakefront access
Lakewood is a lively and walkable suburb located just west of downtown Cleveland. This densely populated area is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic homes, and easy access to Lake Erie. Lakewood is perfect for those seeking a more urban lifestyle with a small-town feel. Residents enjoy access to local breweries, restaurants, and boutiques, all within a close-knit community. The housing market in Lakewood includes a variety of options, from affordable apartments to charming historic homes.
Population: 50,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,145
Median home sale price: $302,500
Lakewood transportation scores: Walk Score 70, Bike Score 64, Transit Score 41
Apartments for rent in Lakewood, OH | Houses for rent in Lakewood, OH | Homes for sale in Lakewood, OH
3. Rocky River
Known for: Scenic waterfront, excellent schools, upscale living
Rocky River is a popular suburb located along the shores of Lake Erie, just west of Cleveland. Known for its picturesque views and strong community feel, Rocky River offers a more upscale suburban lifestyle. The suburb is home to top-rated schools, numerous parks, and a variety of local shops and restaurants. Housing options include waterfront homes, modern apartments, and charming older properties, making it a desirable area for those looking for tranquility near the lake.
Population: 20,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,693
Median home sale price: $390,792
Rocky River transportation scores: Walk Score 44, Bike Score 43, Transit Score 39
Apartments for rent in Rocky River, OH | Houses for rent in Rocky River, OH | Homes for sale in Rocky River, OH
4. Westlake
Known for: Parks and green spaces, welcoming environment, suburban amenities
Westlake is located about 15 miles west of downtown Cleveland and offers a suburban lifestyle with a mix of modern and traditional amenities. Known for its parks and recreational areas, Westlake provides plenty of outdoor activities, including Crocker Park, a popular shopping and entertainment district. The housing market in Westlake features a variety of homes, from more affordable options to larger upscale properties. Westlake is ideal for those looking to enjoy suburban living while remaining close to Cleveland's urban attractions.
Population: 34,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,599
Median home sale price: $387,500
Westlake transportation scores: Walk Score 24, Bike Score 34, Transit Score 30
Apartments for rent in Westlake, OH | Houses for rent in Westlake, OH | Homes for sale in Westlake, OH
5. Avon
Known for: Quiet suburban life, new developments, growing community
Avon is a fast-growing suburb located 20 miles west of Cleveland, offering a quiet and suburban lifestyle. The area is known for its new housing developments, excellent shopping options, and green spaces. Avon's recent growth has attracted many individuals looking for a blend of modern living and a peaceful community atmosphere. The housing market features both new construction and established homes, offering a range of price points.
Population: 24,000
Median home sale price: $451,000
Avon transportation scores: Walk Score 14, Bike Score 29
Apartments for rent in Avon, OH | Houses for rent in Avon, OH | Homes for sale in Avon, OH
6. Hudson
Known for: Historic downtown, top-rated schools, upscale living
Hudson, located southeast of Cleveland, is a charming suburb known for its picturesque downtown area, which is filled with locally owned shops, cafes, and historic architecture. Hudson is also recognized for its highly rated schools and tight-knit community. The housing market in Hudson includes a mix of beautiful historic homes and newer developments, offering a luxurious and peaceful lifestyle just outside of Cleveland.
Population: 22,000
Median home sale price: $549,500
Hudson transportation scores: Walk Score 12, Bike Score 33
Apartments for rent in Hudson, OH | Houses for rent in Hudson, OH | Homes for sale in Hudson, OH
7. Solon
Known for: Strong economy, top-rated schools, suburban lifestyle
Solon, located in the southeastern suburbs of Cleveland, is well-regarded for its excellent public schools and thriving local economy. The city attracts many professionals working in the area’s tech and manufacturing sectors. With a suburban atmosphere and a variety of housing options, from affordable homes to more luxurious properties, Solon provides a well-rounded suburban experience.
Population: 23,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,527
Median home sale price: $566,000
Solon transportation scores: Walk Score 12, Bike Score 32
Apartments for rent in Solon, OH | Houses for rent in Solon, OH | Homes for sale in Solon, OH
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Cleveland area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.