Properties in Cleveland come with a reasonable median price tag of $248,480. Matched with an average wage of $47,268, this fosters a comfortable lifestyle. But the city’s distinguishing feature is its compelling charm that attracts a range of age groups.
- Youthful Energy in an Affordable Haven
Recently, Cleveland, Ohio, has carved out a niche as an affordable haven and a dynamic center for the young and spirited. With its average age slightly below the national norm at around 36, Cleveland buzzes with youthful exuberance. This dynamic is fueled by the city’s potent mix of economic vitality, scenic beauty, and optimistic outlook.
- Leisure Activities: From Lakes to Parks
Situated along Lake Erie’s coast, residents have the privilege of engaging in various aquatic activities, boat gatherings, and enjoying tranquil lake vistas. Further into the city, nature lovers are welcomed by the vast Cleveland Metroparks, boasting over 300 miles of trails suitable for walkers, bikers, and equestrians. The park system also presents golf areas, picnic locations, fishing zones, and nature hubs, emphasizing Cleveland’s lush environmental spirit.
- Economic Growth and Future Prospects
Additionally, the city’s financial prospects are solid. The Cleveland Innovation District, an initiative involving the state, academic institutions, and healthcare centers, aims to bring in 20,000 jobs in the next ten years. Highlighting the city’s durability, Dena Cipriano of the Greater Cleveland Partnership remarked, “Cleveland’s resilience during the pandemic was commendable. Our unemployment rates remained below national figures, and we saw a tech talent boom. Cleveland’s financial trajectory seems bright.”
- Millennial Magnet
In the span of three years, Cleveland has gained fame among millennials looking for cost-effective living options. From 2020 to 2023, there was a 6% rise in millennials, aligning with trends in places like Tampa, Florida, and Dallas, as per Bank of America Institute findings. Only Austin, Texas outstripped this growth.
- Affordability and Income Growth
Highlighting Cleveland’s affordability, a Clever Real Estate study revealed that from 2009 to 2021, wages increased 3% more than rents as the city witnessed job and population growth. Now, Cleveland inhabitants spend only 17% of their income on rent, while the national average stands at 20%. Zhou elaborated, “Cleveland’s economy is versatile.” With a population of 361,607, the city and its vicinity thrive in the healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, and construction sectors as stated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Housing Market Observations
Although the millennial surge hasn’t significantly affected the property market, the median house price in Cleveland dropped by 9% in May, year-on-year, as reported by Redfin. Also, houses took 7% longer to sell, with sales figures dropping by nearly 12%. The BofA Institute uncovered that millennials, for the most part, are holding off from entering the property market now but are scouting options for later. They predict that “in the long run, locations with a significant influx of millennial inhabitants will likely see a boost in their property markets.”