Thinking of moving to Lakewood? Here’s what you should know.

Located on the cliffs along Lake Erie, Lakewood, Ohio, is an inner-ring suburb of Cleveland with a character all its own. The restaurant and bar scenes are well-established and most venues are locally owned. Along the main thoroughfares of Madison and Detroit Avenues, food and entertainment centers are expanding.

Who’s There?

The population of around 50,000 is diverse and includes long-time Ohioans, families new to the area and a sizeable gay and lesbian community A considerable portion of Lakewood’s population is young, with 24 percent of residents between the ages of 20 and 34. With a preference for local businesses and venues that host up-and-coming bands, these young people have infused the town with a contemporary vibe. Although a good portion of residents commute to Cleveland for work, the top job sectors in Lakewood are education, healthcare and the service industry. Lakewood Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic employ many locals, but the expansive Lakewood Recreation Department and the Lakewood Historical Society may be the most beloved local organizations.

What’s Around Lakewood?

Lake Erie provides a beautiful backdrop to the city, and it’s no surprise that the most enticing attractions are set along its banks. Lakewood Park boasts a 31-acre lakefront communal space with a pool, tennis courts, volleyball courts, playgrounds and a band shell where locals can enjoy free concerts on Sundays. The park is also in close proximity to the valley trails of the Rocky River Reservation. Lakewood’s six-square-mile radius is easily navigable on foot, though most residents rely on cars for transportation. Others use the city’s six public bus lines and two rapid rail stations. Lakewood’s Bicycle Master Plan was adopted in 2012, and has led to more bike corrals and shared lanes on the city’s streets.

What Do You Do In Lakewood?

In addition to Lakewood’s ample outdoor space, the bar scene has something for every adult, from dives to grilled-cheese bars to the elegant Pier W, which is perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. Block parties are another big draw. The city organizes several festivals, including the annual Lakewood Arts Festival and the Front Porch Concert Series at the Lakewood Public Library.

Imperial House

12975 Emerson Ave #1

Webb Hall

2170 Carabel Ave

1143 Cranford Ave

2129 Waterbury Rd #UP

1469 Winchester Ave #1469

Westline

(Undisclosed Address)

Highland Manor Apartments

2010 Chesterland Ave #3-ID1496099P

1363 Cranford Ave

1284 Cove Ave #C-86-07

13322 Madison Avenue Apartments

The Paris Apartments

12955 Harlon Ave

2100 Wascana Ave

1632 Lakewood Ave #2

17105 Madison Ave

12002 Lake Ave

13614-13702 Detroit Rd

(Undisclosed Address)

The Edge on Clifton

The Alexander

Fry Overlook

2-11868 W Clifton Blvd

S1-11868 W Clifton Blvd

1-11849 W Clifton Blvd

S1-11849 W Clifton Blvd

Warren Plaza