The 25 Best Suburbs to Live in Cleveland, OH: A Complete Guide to Northeast Ohio’s Top Communities
Cleveland’s vibrant metropolitan area extends far beyond its city limits, encompassing numerous suburban communities that offer distinct advantages for residents. Each suburb presents its own unique blend of amenities, school systems, and lifestyle opportunities.
The suburbs surrounding Cleveland provide attractive options for those seeking a balance of urban accessibility and residential comfort, with many areas featuring lower crime rates, larger homes, and better-rated schools than the city proper.
These communities range from historic neighborhoods with tree-lined streets to modern developments with extensive recreational facilities.
Here are the 25 best suburbs to live in Cleveland:
1. Lakewood
Lakewood sits just west of Cleveland along Lake Erie’s shoreline, offering residents stunning waterfront views and access to multiple parks and beaches.
The city features a mix of historic homes and modern apartments, with well-maintained properties dating back to the early 1900s. Home prices remain relatively affordable compared to similar lakefront communities.
Lakewood’s Detroit Avenue and Madison Avenue corridors house numerous local restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques within walking distance for many residents. The area’s walkability score ranks among the highest in Northeast Ohio.
The suburb maintains excellent public schools and provides extensive community programming through its recreation department. Lakewood Park’s solstice steps have become a popular gathering spot for watching sunsets over Lake Erie.
Public transportation options include multiple bus lines and easy access to Cleveland’s rapid transit system. The average commute time to downtown Cleveland is approximately 15 minutes by car.
2. Shaker Heights
Shaker Heights stands as one of Cleveland’s most prestigious and historic suburbs, located just 8 miles east of downtown. The community is known for its distinguished architecture, featuring grand Tudor and Georgian-style homes built in the early 20th century.
The suburb maintains strict architectural standards and zoning laws to preserve its distinctive character. Tree-lined streets and meticulous landscaping create an elegant atmosphere throughout the neighborhood.
The Shaker Heights City School District ranks among Ohio’s top public school systems. Students consistently achieve high academic performance and college acceptance rates.
The area offers excellent public transportation access via two light rail lines connecting to downtown Cleveland. Residents enjoy shopping at Van Aken District, a modern mixed-use development featuring local retailers and restaurants.
Shaker Heights embraces diversity and maintains a strong sense of community through various cultural events and programs. The suburb’s multiple parks and recreation centers provide year-round activities for families.
3. Rocky River
Rocky River stands as a picturesque suburb located just 9 miles west of downtown Cleveland along Lake Erie. The city’s population of approximately 20,000 residents enjoy a blend of suburban comfort and waterfront charm.
The community features excellent public schools, with Rocky River High School consistently ranking among Ohio’s top performers. Local students regularly achieve high test scores and college acceptance rates.
Lake Erie provides residents with recreational opportunities at Bradstreet’s Landing and Rocky River Park. The suburb’s walkable downtown district along Detroit Road offers upscale dining, boutique shopping, and local businesses.
Rocky River’s housing market includes a mix of well-maintained historic homes and modern residences. The median home value sits higher than surrounding areas, reflecting the suburb’s desirable location and amenities.
The Rocky River Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks runs through the eastern edge, providing trails, golf courses, and natural spaces for outdoor activities.
4. Westlake
Westlake ranks as one of Cleveland’s most desirable suburbs, located just 16 miles west of downtown. The city offers an appealing mix of upscale residential areas and thriving commercial districts.
The suburb features excellent public schools, with Westlake High School consistently receiving high ratings from the Ohio Department of Education. The district maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1.
Crocker Park serves as Westlake’s premier shopping and entertainment destination, featuring over 130 stores and restaurants in an outdoor lifestyle center setting. The development also includes luxury apartments and office spaces.
Residents enjoy access to the Cleveland Metroparks Bradley Woods Reservation and numerous city parks. The Recreation Center provides year-round fitness facilities, pools, and sports programs.
The median home value in Westlake stands at $320,000, while the median household income reaches $89,000. The suburb maintains a low crime rate and receives high marks for public safety.
5. Solon
Solon stands as a premier Cleveland suburb located 18 miles southeast of downtown. The city consistently ranks among the safest communities in Ohio and maintains some of the highest-rated public schools in the state.
The median home value in Solon reaches $350,000, reflecting the area’s desirable status and strong property values. The community features a mix of colonial-style homes and modern developments, with lot sizes typically ranging from 1/4 to 1 acre.
Residents enjoy access to the 205-acre Solon Community Park, which offers sports fields, tennis courts, and walking trails. The city’s recreation department maintains year-round programming for all age groups.
The Solon City School District serves approximately 4,300 students across six schools. These schools have earned multiple National Blue Ribbon School awards for academic excellence.
Local employment opportunities thrive in Solon’s industrial park, home to major companies like Nestle and L’Oreal. The suburb’s central business district provides convenient shopping and dining options for residents.
6. Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls stands out as a picturesque suburb located 25 miles east of Cleveland. The village’s downtown area centers around a stunning natural waterfall on the Chagrin River, creating a charming atmosphere for residents and visitors.
The historic downtown district features locally-owned boutiques, restaurants, and the iconic Popcorn Shop Factory, dating back to 1875. The area maintains strict architectural standards to preserve its 19th-century character.
Residents enjoy excellent public schools, with Chagrin Falls High School consistently ranking among Ohio’s top educational institutions. The community hosts popular events throughout the year, including the Blossom Time Festival and weekly farmers markets.
The median home price in Chagrin Falls sits at $425,000, reflecting the area’s desirability and strong property values. The suburb maintains a population of approximately 4,000 residents, contributing to its close-knit community feel.
7. Bay Village
Bay Village sits along Lake Erie’s shoreline, approximately 15 miles west of Cleveland. The lakefront location provides residents with scenic views and recreational opportunities at Huntington Beach.
The suburb maintains a strong sense of community with its well-preserved historic buildings and tree-lined streets. Local parks and the Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offer educational programs and outdoor activities for families.
Bay Village consistently ranks among the safest communities in Ohio. The Bay Village City School District achieves high academic performance ratings, with Bay High School regularly earning state and national recognition.
Housing options range from classic colonials to modern lakefront properties. The median home value reflects the area’s desirability, with prices higher than many neighboring communities.
The community features several shopping areas along Wolf Road, including Bay Square Shopping Center. Residents enjoy easy access to nearby Crocker Park for additional retail and dining options.
8. Hudson
Hudson stands as one of Cleveland’s most prestigious suburbs, located 28 miles southeast of downtown. The city maintains a historic district with well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a charming village green.
The suburb boasts exceptional public schools, with Hudson High School consistently ranking among Ohio’s top educational institutions. Home values in Hudson reflect its desirability, with median prices above $400,000.
Hudson’s downtown offers a mix of upscale boutiques, local restaurants, and professional services. The area features brick walkways and carefully preserved historic buildings that create a distinct New England atmosphere.
Residents enjoy access to multiple parks, including Hudson Springs Park with its 50-acre lake and hiking trails. The city hosts popular community events throughout the year, such as Art on the Green and Hudson Farmers Market.
The community prioritizes safety and maintains low crime rates. Local amenities include the First & Main shopping district, which combines modern retail with traditional architectural styles.
9. Beachwood
Beachwood stands as one of Cleveland’s most affluent and sought-after suburbs, located just 11 miles east of downtown. The median home value sits at $382,000, reflecting the area’s upscale character and strong real estate market.
The suburb boasts exceptional public schools, with Beachwood City Schools consistently ranking among Ohio’s top districts. Students in the district achieve test scores 30% above the national average.
Beachwood Place mall and Legacy Village provide residents with premium shopping and dining options. The area features several corporate headquarters and a thriving business district along Richmond Road.
The community offers numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the Beachwood Family Aquatic Center and the Beachwood Community Center. These amenities host year-round programs for residents of all ages.
Safety remains a priority in Beachwood, with crime rates 45% lower than the national average. The police department maintains a strong presence and quick response times throughout the community.
10. Pepper Pike
Pepper Pike stands as one of Cleveland’s most prestigious suburbs, located just 14 miles east of downtown. The median home value sits at $475,000, reflecting the upscale nature of this community.
The suburb maintains strict zoning laws to preserve its spacious, wooded lots and peaceful atmosphere. Residents enjoy access to private country clubs, including the Pepper Pike Club and Orange Hill Country Club.
The highly-rated Orange City School District serves Pepper Pike students. The district consistently ranks among Ohio’s top performers in academic achievement.
The city’s 6,000 residents benefit from quick access to I-271 and the Chagrin Valley. Local amenities include pristine parks, walking trails, and the Ursuline College campus.
Crime rates in Pepper Pike rank among the lowest in Greater Cleveland. The police department maintains a strong presence and quick response times throughout the community.
11. Avon Lake
Avon Lake stands as a picturesque suburb on Lake Erie’s shores, located 18 miles west of Cleveland. The city maintains an appealing mix of waterfront properties and well-planned residential areas.
The community features excellent public schools, with Avon Lake High School consistently ranking among Ohio’s top performers. The city’s parks system includes 220 acres of green space and multiple public beaches.
Residents enjoy access to boating facilities at the Avon Lake Boat Club and recreational activities at Miller Road Park. The area’s crime rate ranks among the lowest in Greater Cleveland.
The median home value in Avon Lake reflects its desirable status, with prices typically ranging above the Cleveland metropolitan average. Local amenities include a modern public library, shopping centers, and diverse dining options.
Many families choose Avon Lake for its combination of lakefront living and suburban convenience. The city maintains well-kept streets and provides reliable municipal services to its residents.
12. Fairview Park
Fairview Park sits just 12 miles west of downtown Cleveland, offering residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle with urban amenities nearby. The city covers 4.7 square miles and has approximately 16,000 residents.
The community features well-maintained neighborhoods with a mix of mid-century homes and newer constructions. Housing prices remain relatively affordable compared to other Cleveland suburbs.
Residents enjoy easy access to the Cleveland Metroparks and the Rocky River Reservation, perfect for outdoor recreation. The city maintains several parks, including Bain Park with its popular splash pad and playground.
The Westgate Shopping Center serves as a major retail hub for the area, providing shopping and dining options. Fairview Park City Schools consistently receive high ratings for academic achievement.
Public transportation options include RTA bus service and proximity to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The community hosts popular events like Summerfest and weekly farmers markets during warmer months.
13. North Olmsted
North Olmsted is a welcoming suburban city located 16 miles southwest of Cleveland. The city offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.
Great Northern Mall serves as a major retail hub, featuring numerous stores and restaurants. The city’s commercial district along Lorain Road provides additional shopping and dining options.
North Olmsted maintains several parks, including North Olmsted Park and Barton-Bradley Park, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The North Olmsted Recreation Center provides year-round fitness facilities and programs for residents.
The city’s location near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and major highways makes commuting convenient. Public schools in North Olmsted receive solid ratings, and the area maintains a strong sense of community through local events and activities.
Housing options range from mid-century ranches to newer developments, with property values remaining stable. The city provides essential services including reliable snow removal and waste management.
14. Willoughby
Willoughby sits 18 miles east of Cleveland, offering residents a charming suburban atmosphere with a well-preserved historic downtown district. The city’s population of approximately 22,500 enjoys a blend of modern amenities and small-town charm.
Downtown Willoughby features locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes along Erie Street, creating a vibrant community hub. The area hosts popular events throughout the year, including the Willoughby ArtsFest and weekly farmers markets.
The city maintains several parks and recreational facilities, with Osborne Park providing access to Lake Erie’s shoreline. Residents benefit from quality public schools in the Willoughby-Eastlake School District.
Housing options range from historic homes to modern developments, with median home values around $200,000. The community offers easy access to major highways, making commutes to Cleveland convenient for working professionals.
Local attractions include the Willoughby Brewing Company and the Historic Willoughby Cemetery, which dates back to 1803. The city’s low crime rates and strong sense of community make it attractive to families and professionals.
15. Mentor
Mentor stands as one of Cleveland’s largest suburbs, located 25 miles northeast of downtown along Lake Erie’s shoreline. The city combines suburban comfort with lakeside charm, offering residents access to both natural beauty and urban amenities.
The suburb features excellent public schools, with Mentor High School consistently receiving high ratings from the Ohio Department of Education. The city maintains over 1,200 acres of green space across multiple parks and recreational facilities.
Mentor’s retail corridor along Route 20 serves as a major shopping destination for Northeast Ohio, anchored by Great Lakes Mall and numerous restaurants. The area provides diverse housing options, from lakefront properties to traditional suburban neighborhoods.
The city’s strong job market includes manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors. Mentor’s location provides easy access to both Cleveland and regional attractions through Interstate 90 and State Route 2.
Lake Erie beaches and Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve offer outdoor recreation opportunities for residents. The suburb’s public safety record and well-maintained infrastructure contribute to its appeal for families and professionals.
16. Olmsted Falls
Olmsted Falls sits 16 miles southwest of Cleveland, offering residents a charming small-town atmosphere with historic architecture and scenic natural beauty. The city’s population of approximately 8,900 maintains a close-knit community feel.
The downtown district features preserved 19th-century buildings, local shops, and restaurants along Main Street. The area around the falls of Plum Creek provides picturesque views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Olmsted Falls School District consistently ranks among the top public school systems in Ohio. The district serves both Olmsted Falls and Olmsted Township with modern facilities and strong academic programs.
Housing options range from historic homes to newer developments, with median home values around $275,000. The city provides easy access to Cleveland via I-480 and the nearby Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
The Grand Pacific Junction Historic Shopping District attracts visitors year-round with its unique stores and special events. Local parks and green spaces offer residents plenty of outdoor activities, including walking trails and sports facilities.
17. Broadview Heights
Broadview Heights sits 15 miles south of Cleveland, offering residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle with excellent amenities. The city maintains several parks and recreational facilities, including the Community and Recreation Center.
The local housing market features primarily single-family homes, with median home values around $300,000. Most residents own their homes, contributing to the community’s stable atmosphere.
Located near Interstate 77, Broadview Heights provides convenient access to downtown Cleveland and surrounding areas. The city falls within the highly rated Brecksville-Broadview Heights School District.
The suburb maintains a strong sense of community through various annual events and festivals. Local favorites include the Home Days celebration and summer concerts at the amphitheater.
Safety ranks as a top priority in Broadview Heights, with crime rates significantly lower than national averages. The suburb’s population of approximately 19,000 enjoys well-maintained streets and responsive city services.
18. Parma Heights
Parma Heights offers a peaceful suburban environment just 11 miles southwest of Cleveland. The city maintains several well-kept parks and recreational facilities for residents to enjoy.
The community features affordable housing options, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. Home prices remain relatively stable, making it an accessible choice for first-time homebuyers.
Local shopping centers and restaurants line Pearl Road, providing convenient access to daily necessities. The Greenbrier Commons complex serves as a community hub with a pool, tennis courts, and gathering spaces.
The city’s location offers easy access to Cleveland via I-480 and public transportation options. Commuters appreciate the straightforward 20-minute drive to downtown during off-peak hours.
Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus sits partially within Parma Heights, offering educational opportunities to residents. The city also maintains strong public safety services and responsive local government.
19. Richmond Heights
Richmond Heights sits just 12 miles east of downtown Cleveland, offering a peaceful suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences. The community spans 4.5 square miles and maintains several parks and green spaces.
The suburb features a mix of well-maintained single-family homes and modern apartments. Home prices remain relatively affordable compared to neighboring communities, with median home values around $175,000.
Richmond Heights Memorial Park serves as a central gathering spot for residents, featuring walking trails, sports fields, and a playground. The community also hosts various seasonal events and festivals throughout the year.
The Richmond Town Square area provides shopping and dining options. Residents enjoy easy access to I-271 and proximity to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
Local schools serve the community through the Richmond Heights Local School District. The district maintains small class sizes and offers various academic and extracurricular programs.
20. Berea
Berea sits 12 miles southwest of Cleveland and offers a charming suburban environment with a population of approximately 18,500 residents. The city has deep historical roots as a quarrying town and maintains strong ties to its industrial heritage.
Baldwin Wallace University brings a vibrant college-town atmosphere to Berea, hosting cultural events and providing educational opportunities for residents. The campus adds greenery and historic architecture to the city landscape.
The Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the annual county fair. Local parks and the Cleveland Metroparks reservation provide outdoor recreation options for residents.
Housing costs in Berea remain relatively affordable compared to other Cleveland suburbs, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments. The city offers convenient access to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and major highways.
Public schools in Berea serve students through the Berea City School District, which maintains a solid academic reputation. The city features a walkable downtown area with local shops and restaurants.
21. Strongsville
Strongsville sits 20 miles southwest of Cleveland, offering residents a mix of suburban comfort and urban amenities. The city maintains over 2,700 acres of green space, including the Cleveland Metroparks Mill Stream Run Reservation.
The Strongsville City Commons serves as a central gathering place, featuring a gazebo and seasonal events that bring the community together. The nearby SouthPark Mall provides extensive shopping and dining options.
Housing options range from established neighborhoods with traditional homes to newer developments with modern amenities. The median home value in Strongsville is $275,000.
The highly-rated Strongsville City School District serves the community with multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and Strongsville High School. The city boasts a strong local economy with numerous business parks and corporate offices.
The Walter F. Ehrnfelt Recreation and Senior Center offers fitness facilities, classes, and programs for residents of all ages. Easy access to I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike makes commuting convenient.
22. Mayfield Heights
Mayfield Heights sits 11 miles east of downtown Cleveland, offering residents a blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility. The city maintains a population of approximately 19,000 residents.
The community features well-maintained streets and neighborhoods, with a mix of single-family homes and modern apartment complexes. Housing costs remain moderate compared to neighboring suburbs, making it an attractive option for young families and professionals.
Residents enjoy convenient access to shopping at Mayfield Heights Market Square and the nearby Golden Gate Plaza. The city’s location along I-271 provides quick routes to downtown Cleveland and other major employment centers.
The local school system, part of the Mayfield City School District, serves students with strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. Public services include a responsive police department and well-equipped fire station.
Oakville Park offers outdoor recreation with its playground equipment, walking paths, and sports facilities. The city hosts several community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of local connection.
23. Garfield Heights
Garfield Heights sits 8 miles southeast of downtown Cleveland, providing residents with convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a suburban atmosphere. The community spans 7.3 square miles and has a population of approximately 27,000 residents.
Housing costs in Garfield Heights remain relatively affordable compared to neighboring suburbs, with median home prices around $120,000. The city offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments, attracting both families and young professionals.
The suburb features several parks and recreational facilities, including the Cleveland Metroparks Garfield Park Reservation. This 213-acre park provides hiking trails, sports fields, and a nature center for residents to enjoy.
Local shopping centers along Turney Road and Rockside Road offer everyday conveniences. The city maintains its own school district, serving students through multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and Garfield Heights High School.
Public transportation options include RTA bus routes connecting to downtown Cleveland and neighboring communities. The suburb’s location near I-480 and I-77 makes commuting straightforward for residents.
24. Seven Hills
Seven Hills ranks among Cleveland’s most desirable suburban communities, situated just 11 miles south of downtown. The city earned its name from the seven hills that define its rolling landscape.
The suburb maintains a strong sense of community with its 11,000 residents enjoying peaceful neighborhoods and well-maintained properties. Home values in Seven Hills average $275,000, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.
Recreation opportunities abound at the Seven Hills Recreation Center, which features an indoor pool, fitness facilities, and various sports programs. The city’s park system includes Calvin Park and North Park, offering playgrounds and walking trails.
Seven Hills provides convenient access to both I-77 and I-480, making commutes to downtown Cleveland and other major employment centers straightforward. The suburb’s public services include excellent snow removal and regular community events that bring neighbors together.
Local shopping and dining options can be found along Broadview Road, while larger retail centers in neighboring Parma and Independence are just minutes away.
25. Euclid
Euclid sits along Lake Erie’s shoreline, approximately 12 miles northeast of downtown Cleveland. The city offers affordable housing options, with median home prices around $125,000 as of 2025.
The community features several lakefront parks, including Sims Park and Kenneth J. Sims Memorial Park, providing residents with beach access and recreational facilities.
Euclid maintains a diverse business sector, anchored by manufacturing companies and small businesses along East 185th Street and Euclid Avenue. The city’s industrial heritage continues to provide local employment opportunities.
Public transportation access makes commuting convenient, with multiple RTA bus lines connecting to downtown Cleveland. The city also offers easy access to I-90 and Route 2 for drivers.
Local amenities include the Euclid Public Library, the Shore Cultural Centre, and various shopping centers. The Euclid City School District serves the community’s educational needs through its network of public schools.
Factors Influencing Suburban Appeal
Cleveland’s suburban communities are shaped by key elements that determine their livability and desirability for residents. School quality and transportation infrastructure play crucial roles in attracting families and professionals to specific neighborhoods.
Schools and Education
The quality of education significantly impacts property values and neighborhood demographics in Cleveland’s suburbs. Top-performing districts like Solon City Schools and Rocky River City Schools consistently earn “A” ratings from the Ohio Department of Education.
Student-to-teacher ratios in Cleveland’s premier suburban districts average 16:1, lower than the national average of 23:1. This allows for more individualized attention and enhanced learning opportunities.
Many suburban schools offer specialized programs in STEM, arts, and college preparation. Advanced Placement (AP) participation rates exceed 85% in districts like Orange and Beachwood.
Transportation and Accessibility
The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) connects suburban areas to downtown through rail and bus services. Red Line rapid transit provides direct access from western suburbs like Lakewood and eastern communities like Shaker Heights.
Major highways – I-271, I-480, and I-77 – create efficient commute routes from suburban locations. Average drive times to downtown Cleveland range from 15-30 minutes from most suburban areas.
Many suburbs feature dedicated bike lanes and walking paths. Communities like Rocky River and Bay Village maintain over 20 miles of multipurpose trails.
Proximity to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport adds value to western suburbs, while access to I-271 benefits eastern communities with direct routes to business centers.
Community and Lifestyle
Cleveland’s suburbs blend cultural richness with abundant outdoor spaces, creating vibrant neighborhoods where residents enjoy diverse activities and entertainment options.
Cultural Amenities
Each suburb maintains unique cultural attractions that enrich daily life. Local theaters, art galleries, and community centers host regular events and performances throughout the year.
The Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood presents live theater productions and art exhibitions while offering classes in music, dance, and visual arts.
Chagrin Falls features a historic downtown with boutique shops, restaurants, and the iconic Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop, a beloved local gathering spot since 1949.
The Beachwood Arts Council organizes festivals, concerts, and exhibitions that showcase regional artists and performers.
Parks and Recreation
The Cleveland Metroparks system connects many suburbs through its “Emerald Necklace” of green spaces and trails.
Rocky River Reservation spans multiple suburbs, offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and the popular Rocky River Nature Center.
Solon’s Community Park features sports fields, tennis courts, and a community center with year-round programming for residents of all ages.
Brecksville Reservation provides 3,800 acres of natural terrain with hiking trails, cross-country skiing paths, and Deer Lick Cave.
The Acacia Reservation in Lyndhurst transformed a former golf course into 155 acres of restored natural habitat with walking paths and wildlife viewing areas.
