Let the numbers do the talking.
Cleveland, OH vs Lakewood, OH
Cleveland, OH vs Lakewood, OH: What the data shows
Cleveland, OH is in Cleveland, OH while Lakewood, OH is in Lakewood, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Cleveland, OH is the more affordable option at $101,000 median — $120,000 less than Lakewood, OH's $221,000. WYLT rates Cleveland, OH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Lakewood, OH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Cleveland, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lakewood, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cleveland, OH has Low flood risk and Lakewood, OH has Low flood risk.
Lakewood, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Cleveland, OH scores 6/100 (car-dependent) versus Lakewood, OH's 59/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Cleveland, OH has the higher school rating — Cleveland, OH rates 6.8/10 and Lakewood, OH rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Cleveland, OH | Lakewood, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $101K ✓ Lower price | $221K |
| Median Rent | $890 ✓ Lower rent | $940 |
| Median Income | $43K | $63K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 6/100 | 59/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 14/100 ✓ Better transit | 4/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 18 min | 16 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesFirst‑time home buyersHealth professionals | Young professionalsStudentsCleveland commuters |
Bottom line
For families and first-time home buyers on a budget, Cleveland's affordability and suburban feel might make it a better choice. However, for young professionals or bike enthusiasts, Lakewood's closer commute to downtown Cleveland and walkability may outweigh the extra cost. Ultimately, if you're willing and can afford to pay more, Lakewood is a safer bet for a convenient, community-driven lifestyle.
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