Salary And Cost Of Living In Cleveland OH

Cleveland, Ohio, has become an increasingly attractive destination for professionals, families, and remote workers who are seeking a balance between income and affordability. With its revitalized downtown, strong healthcare and education sectors, and relatively low housing costs, Cleveland OH offers a compelling value proposition compared to many larger U.S. cities. In the sections below, we will explore the average salary in Cleveland OH, the overall cost of living in Cleveland OH, local housing markets, the best neighborhoods in Cleveland OH, and school options to help you decide whether the city fits your financial and lifestyle goals.

Average Salary In Cleveland OH

The job market in Cleveland is anchored by healthcare, education, manufacturing, technology, and financial services. Major employers such as the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Sherwin-Williams, and several universities contribute to a broad range of salary levels. While individual earnings vary by profession and experience, overall wages in Cleveland are generally in line with or slightly below the national average, but are offset by significantly lower living costs.

Below is an illustrative overview of typical annual salaries for common roles in the Cleveland OH metro area:

Job Title (Cleveland OH)	Typical Salary Range
Registered Nurse	$65,000 – $85,000
Software Developer	$80,000 – $110,000
Accountant	$55,000 – $80,000
High School Teacher	$50,000 – $70,000
Manufacturing Technician	$40,000 – $60,000
Customer Service Representative	$34,000 – $45,000

Because the region’s housing and daily expenses are relatively modest, your salary in Cleveland OH can stretch further than in many coastal cities. This makes the city particularly appealing for early-career professionals and families who want to build savings without sacrificing quality of life.

Cost Of Living In Cleveland OH

When evaluating a move, it is essential to compare income against expenses. The cost of living in Cleveland OH is generally lower than the national average, especially in categories such as housing, transportation, and groceries. As a result, residents often find that they can afford more space, more amenities, and a higher standard of living on the same or even a lower salary than they might earn elsewhere.

The following table provides a high-level view of typical monthly living costs for a single person compared with a family of four in Cleveland, excluding income taxes and major debt payments:

Expense Category (Cleveland OH)	Single Adult (Monthly)	Family Of Four (Monthly)
Housing (Rent or Mortgage)	$900 – $1,300	$1,400 – $2,200
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180 – $260	$250 – $350
Groceries	$300 – $450	$700 – $1,000
Transportation (Car/Transit, Fuel, Insurance)	$250 – $400	$450 – $650
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket)	$150 – $250	$350 – $550
Entertainment & Dining Out	$150 – $250	$250 – $400

While these figures are approximate, they illustrate how Cleveland OH residents can often maintain a comfortable lifestyle at a lower total cost than in many similarly sized metropolitan areas. As you weigh a potential relocation, it is helpful to compare these expenses with your anticipated salary and personal spending habits.

Average Home Values And Rents In Cleveland OH

Housing is one of the strongest advantages of the Cleveland market. Average home values in Cleveland OH are significantly more affordable than the national median, allowing more residents to pursue homeownership. For renters, a wide selection of apartments, duplexes, and single-family homes offers flexibility at multiple price points.

Here is an overview of typical housing costs within the city and surrounding metro:

Housing Metric (Cleveland OH)	Estimated Amount
Median Home Value (City of Cleveland)	$120,000 – $170,000
Median Home Value (Greater Cleveland Metro)	$200,000 – $260,000
Average Rent – Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment	$850 – $1,200 per month
Average Rent – 2-Bedroom Apartment	$1,050 – $1,450 per month
Average Rent – 3-Bedroom Home	$1,350 – $1,900 per month

To visualize how housing costs in Cleveland compare to a higher-cost market, consider the following simple chart:

City	Approx. Median Home Value	Approx. Average 2-Bedroom Rent
Cleveland OH	$150,000 – $200,000	$1,050 – $1,450
Chicago IL	Higher	Higher
New York NY	Much Higher	Much Higher

This comparison underscores how the Cleveland OH housing market provides strong value for both buyers and renters, often freeing up budget for savings, travel, or investments.

Best Neighborhoods In Cleveland OH

Cleveland’s neighborhoods each offer a distinct character, from historic districts to trendy, walkable corridors. When deciding where to live, it is useful to balance commute times, school options, housing style, and lifestyle amenities such as restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions. Below are some of the best neighborhoods in Cleveland OH often favored by residents:

Neighborhood (Cleveland OH)	Key Features	Typical Housing Profile
Ohio City	Trendy area west of downtown, known for West Side Market, breweries, and restaurants.	Historic homes, renovated apartments, and modern townhomes; moderate to higher rents.
Tremont	Artistic, walkable neighborhood with galleries, cafes, and city skyline views.	Renovated historic houses and condos; a mix of affordable and upscale listings.
University Circle	Cultural hub with museums, Case Western Reserve University, and major hospitals.	Apartments and condos, popular with students and professionals; close to transit.
Detroit-Shoreway	Revitalized West Side district featuring Gordon Square Arts District and lake access.	Single-family homes, duplexes, and new developments; still relatively affordable.
Downtown Cleveland	Urban living near offices, sports venues, and entertainment.	Loft-style apartments and high-rise rentals; higher rents but walkable conveniences.

In addition, nearby suburbs such as Lakewood, Shaker Heights, and Rocky River are often considered part of the best places to live in the Cleveland OH area, offering strong schools, tree-lined streets, and easy access to downtown.

Schools And Education In Cleveland OH

Education is an important factor when evaluating the cost of living and long-term value of a location. Schools in Cleveland OH and its surrounding suburbs include a mix of public, charter, and private options, giving families considerable choice. Within the city, Cleveland Metropolitan School District and various charter schools serve diverse neighborhoods, while suburbs such as Shaker Heights, Solon, Rocky River, and Beachwood are well known for strong public school systems.

Here is a high-level overview of educational options in and around Cleveland:

School Type (Cleveland OH Area)	Overview
Public Schools (City)	Cleveland Metropolitan School District offers neighborhood schools, specialty academies, and magnet programs with a focus on improving student outcomes.
Public Schools (Suburbs)	Suburban districts such as Solon, Shaker Heights, and Beachwood are known for strong academics, extracurriculars, and community support.
Charter Schools	Numerous charter options provide theme-based curricula, including STEM-focused schools and college-preparatory academies.
Private & Parochial Schools	Catholic and independent schools across the Cleveland OH region offer faith-based and specialized academic programs.
Colleges & Universities	Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, and community colleges support higher education, research, and workforce development.

Because educational quality and school zoning can affect both property values and long-term financial planning, many families working in Cleveland OH carefully research school ratings and district boundaries before purchasing or renting a home.

Living And Working In Cleveland OH

Cleveland OH offers a distinctive combination of solid earning potential, comparatively low housing costs, and diverse neighborhoods and schools. For professionals considering a move, the city provides access to major employers, a growing arts and food scene, and recreational opportunities along Lake Erie, all while maintaining a cost structure that is friendlier than many larger U.S. metros.

As you weigh your options, it can be helpful to map your expected salary in Cleveland OH against typical living expenses, including housing, transportation, and education. By doing so, you can determine how far your income will go and which neighborhoods or suburbs align best with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.

Ultimately, the salary and cost of living in Cleveland OH create a compelling environment for building a stable and enjoyable life. Whether you are a recent graduate, a mid-career professional, or a family seeking more space and opportunity, Cleveland’s balance of affordability, amenities, and community may make it the right place for your next chapter.