Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Cleveland
So, you’re moving to Cleveland! Get ready to experience one of the nation’s undiscovered treasures—a vibrant, thriving metropolis with Midwest charm. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland has something for everyone— affordable housing, culture, lakefront parks and beaches, some of the best medical care in the nation, and a welcoming community.
Real Estate is Affordable
If you’re moving from a major U.S. city, you will be pleasantly surprised by the real estate market in Cleveland and its surrounding suburbs. Median housing prices, on average are an astonishingly 500% less expensive than New York and 240% less expensive than Washington D.C. In 2019 Cleveland received a top affordability score on Kiplinger’s list of 100 Largest Metro Areas. That means more money in your pockets to enjoy your new city and all it has to offer.
Cleveland Has That Small-town Feel
Cleveland has a spirit and a sense of community that you can’t find in larger cities. It’s the kind of place where people grow up and stay to raise their own families. Transplants, too, find Cleveland’s Mid-western charm irresistible. The scale of the city and its surrounding towns translates into a less hectic pace of life.
Gus Armbruster, who has lived in the Tremont neighborhood for the past six years says, “Cleveland gives you the amenities of a big-time city but without the headaches of traffic jams, high cost of living, and feeling like a small fish in a big pond."
Cleveland Metroparks
Living in Cleveland means the beauty of the nature is just steps away. The Cleveland Metroparks system includes 300 miles of trails and 18 parks and nature reservations. Some parks, such as Lakefront and Washington, are within walking distance of downtown.
Further out of the city, the Metroparks offer thousands of trails for hiking and biking and spectacular scenic views. Cleveland Metroparks is a nationally acclaimed park system that houses numerous golf courses, several lakeside parks, and the Cleveland Zoo, home to over 600 animal species.
Downtown Cleveland
Cleveland has seen a building boom in recent years. New construction of office spaces and newly renovated housing reflect the energy and vitality of this highly walkable city. From the downtown area, attractions such as the Science Museum and the Quicken Arena, home of the Cavaliers, are within walking distance. The Theatre District is the second largest in the country, trailing only New York City.
The recently refurbished Flats is a downtown indoor/outdoor market and dining area that borders beautiful Lake Erie. The Flat offers lakeside dining and a lively atmosphere for after-work hours or days off in the city.
Stroll along East Fourth Street to find shopping, aromatic coffee houses, craft breweries, and of course, to-die-for restaurants. Author and former Iron Chef champ, Michael Symon, has not one, but two destination venues on East 4thStreet. Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ is a Cleveland institution-don’t miss it!
One of six iconic Cleveland script signsWorld Class Health Care
Cleveland’s health care facilities are recognized worldwide as the pinnacle of quality and innovation. University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center is ranked nationally in many specialties in both adult and pediatric medicine.
Cleveland Clinic’s heart and vascular institute has been ranked No. 1 by U.S. News and World Reports for 25 years straight. Eight other hospital departments ranked in the top ten nationwide. Newsweek ranks Cleveland Clinic No. 2 in the world. People travel from all over the world to receive the stellar care offered by Cleveland’s hospitals.
Lakeside on Lake Erie
You may not think of Cleveland when you think of fun in the sun, but that’s exactly what you’ll get when you set your beach chair on one of Cleveland’s lakeside beaches. Cleveland Metroparks Lakefront Reservation, which includes Edgewater Park and Whiskey Island, has thousands of feet of beachfront within the city. With sun and sand, beach volleyball and boating, Cleveland has been keeping its beachside paradise a closely guarded secret. Get ready to enjoy it right alongside your new neighbors.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
In case the Metroparks’ 300 miles of trails aren’t enough for you, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is only a half an hour drive away. The state’s only national park, Cuyahoga has 100 waterfalls within its borders, miles of trails, and plenty of scenic vistas for gazing at the beauty of the valley.
One of best ways to see the park is by hopping on the Scenic Railroad for a 3-hour round trip. You’ll see Lock 39, part of the historic Ohio and Eric Canal towpath. The towpath is accessible for walkers, bikers, wheelchairs, and strollers.
You Can Visit the House from A Christmas Story 24/7
Is your Christmas incomplete without A Christmas Story running all day on TV? Then head on over to The Christmas Story House and Museum, the famed home of Ralphie Parker and his Red Rider BB gun, for that warm holiday feeling. Brian Jones, a huge fan of the movie, bought the Tremont-area home in 2004. He took two years to painstakingly replicate the home to reflect the original set design and opened the doors in 2016 to neighbors and tourists alike.
You can tour the house and hide in the same kitchen cabinet that little Randy did. Stay as an overnight guest and use the bathroom where Ralphie had to wash his mouth out with soap. In true Cleveland spirit, many houses in the area cast an evening glow from a fishnet-clad leg lamp. Visit the museum across the street and take home your own sexy leg-lamp.
Die-Hard Sports Fans
Sports fans in Cleveland are a breed unto their own. Yes, they have the Cavaliers that have rewarded their devotion with playoffs and titles. The Cleveland Browns on the other hand leave a string of broken sports-fan hearts in their wake. That doesn’t stop Cleveland fans. They show up in freezing temperatures, paint themselves in team colors, and never lose faith. If you’re looking for a sports town, Cleveland is the place for you.
Home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
People travel from all over to visit the one and only Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Once you become a Clevelander, it will be right in your backyard. The Hall of Fame hosts special events and concerts throughout the year. Best of all, you’ll be within shouting distance for the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies—which have some surprisingly affordable tickets.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a foodie, a nature lover, or a rock-and-roller, Cleveland has so much to discover. In Cleveland you’ll find a friendly community, affordable housing, and plenty of places to kick back and enjoy.
As a healthcare power of attorney, I recently had to coordinate a quick move for a loved one from one assisted living community to another—and I truly can’t say enough about how incredible this team was.I had the honor of working with the Smooth Transitions team of Armbruster Moving.They met with us on a Sunday to walk through everything, and within a week, the entire move was complete. They handled absolutely everything—packing, moving, and unpacking—which allowed me to focus fully on my loved one and his care.Their professionalism, kindness, and patience were beyond anything I could have hoped for, especially in working with a senior living with Alzheimer’s. They made what could have been an overwhelming experience feel smooth and manageable.A huge shoutout to Kathy and Paulette for their compassion, guidance, and support every step of the way. I’m so grateful for everything they did.
The moving team were superior; each one was cordial and professional. Very efficient loading and then unloading. Took time to put furniture and boxes as directed with no damage.
Ramon, Rob, and BrandonLauren and EvanThis was a two day move.Lauren and Evan came at 9am on Mondsy to pack up everything that was going yo auction or being donated. They were phenomenal. They were friendly, efficient, and most importantly respectful of the 80+ yr. old owner who had lived in this house for decades and now was moving to a senior care facility. She was present while memories were being packed away that would not be able to go with her. Items going to auction or being donated. They worked non-stop from 9am til sunset, taking only a short lunch break in their car in sub- freezing weather.At the same time, Ramon, Brandon, and Rob were loading the moving truck with items going to the owner's new home. They too were totally frienfly and respectful of the owner on this very emotional day for her. Andonce at the new place on a cold and snowy day, first thing They did was lay down drop cloths to protect the freshly cleaned carpeting.They moved everything in where she wanted it, assembled her bed and were done before dark.Then they came back the next day and cleaned out what was remaining in her house that was going to auction or being donated.This is a house full of decades of memories, lots of stuff that could not be brought with the owner. And in less than two days, this house was cleaned out. Hats off to this special crew of Lauren,Evan, Ramon. Brandon, and Rob for making this highly emotional time aspleasant as possible for this 80 yr. old owner.
Just want to give a great big shout out to Armbruster Moving and the experience we had. They showed up earlier than scheduled. All 5 of the movers could not have been nicer or more professional. They treated our house as if it was their own. Another big shout out to the 5 movers (Nate, TZ, Evan, Duck and Clayton). They were the best. Would highly recommend this company for your move.
I’ve used Armbruster for two separate moves and cannot say enough good things about the process from start to finish for both moves over the years. Everyone has been so helpful with getting everything set up and checking in. The crew from both of my moves, including the most recent was top notch and made sure everything was secure and informed us of everything throughout the process. If I have to move again or any friends or family are moving, it’s Armbruster all the way!
I was extremely impressed with Armbruster Moving/Smooth Transitions when my mother downsized to a senior independent living apartment. Chris and Lauren were so supportive and encouraging. They worked so hard at the packing and unpacking and organization of her new place! Can’t say enough about them, it was like having family with us helping and supporting along the way!
The movers were friendly, very helpful, worked efficiently, careful with all items. Made some great suggestions to best use new space. I was also amazed at how well they dealt with the first snow of the season.
The delivery was perfect. I received a call when the movers were 10 minutes away, which was perfect because I work 5 minutes away. The movers were fast and professional. Excellent service
The guys made sure to wrap and protect all items, took an accurate inventory, worked efficiently, and met the moving timetable. Armbruster Moving is a professional business with highly qualified leaders and employees.
Great communication with the agent in charge of my move! On the day of our move, the movers were friendly, efficient, and respectful! They packed and moved everything carefully to prevent damage. I would highly recommend this company!
Downtown Cleveland
Cleveland has seen a building boom in recent years. New construction of office spaces and newly renovated housing reflect the energy and vitality of this highly walkable city. From the downtown area, attractions such as the Science Museum and the Quicken Arena, home of the Cavaliers, are within walking distance. The Theatre District is the second largest in the country, trailing only New York City.
The recently refurbished Flats is a downtown indoor/outdoor market and dining area that borders beautiful Lake Erie. The Flat offers lakeside dining and a lively atmosphere for after-work hours or days off in the city.
Stroll along East Fourth Street to find shopping, aromatic coffee houses, craft breweries, and of course, to-die-for restaurants. Author and former Iron Chef champ, Michael Symon, has not one, but two destination venues on East 4thStreet. Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ is a Cleveland institution-don’t miss it!
Downtown Cleveland
Cleveland has seen a building boom in recent years. New construction of office spaces and newly renovated housing reflect the energy and vitality of this highly walkable city. From the downtown area, attractions such as the Science Museum and the Quicken Arena, home of the Cavaliers, are within walking distance. The Theatre District is the second largest in the country, trailing only New York City.
The recently refurbished Flats is a downtown indoor/outdoor market and dining area that borders beautiful Lake Erie. The Flat offers lakeside dining and a lively atmosphere for after-work hours or days off in the city.
Stroll along East Fourth Street to find shopping, aromatic coffee houses, craft breweries, and of course, to-die-for restaurants. Author and former Iron Chef champ, Michael Symon, has not one, but two destination venues on East 4thStreet. Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ is a Cleveland institution-don’t miss it!
People travel from all over to visit the one and only Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Once you become a Clevelander, it will be right in your backyard. The Hall of Fame hosts special events and concerts throughout the year. Best of all, you’ll be within shouting distance for the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies—which have some surprisingly affordable tickets.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a foodie, a nature lover, or a rock-and-roller, Cleveland has so much to discover. In Cleveland you’ll find a friendly community, affordable housing, and plenty of places to kick back and enjoy.
