Northeast Ohio
Photo by Scott Hashier on Unsplash
Thriving Cities ● Parks & Trails ● Affordability ● Job Opportunities ● Diversity
Whether you crave the energy of a city or the tranquility of historic towns, the Northeast Ohio region has something to offer - with the added benefit of affordable prices and a solid job market. Cities like Akron provide arts and culture with plenty of museums, theaters, and a burgeoning craft brewery scene. History buffs can delve into the region's rich industrial past, while nature lovers can find their fix along the scenic shores of Lake Erie or hike the Cuyahoga Valley National Park's rolling hills. Hike lush trails, kayak scenic waters, or ski snow-capped slopes – Northeast Ohio caters to your outdoor desires.It's a place where you can find a comfortable, affordable lifestyle with access to exciting experiences both indoors and out. Compared to most major cities, living costs here strike a chord with budget-conscious individuals and families. Urban apartments, suburban homes, and rural havens offer something for everyone at accessible prices. Healthcare, manufacturing, and education lead the job market, while tech hubs like Canton offer growth.
Political Impact
House: District 13 ● Senate ● Governor
The 2026 House race in Ohio's 13th Congressional District will once again be close, as will (optimistically) both the Senate and the Governor’s race. Voters in Ohio will have a triple impact in 2026 and a long-term impact in the state well-beyond.
Affordability
Northeast Ohio is generally considered an affordable place to live. The cost of living falls below the national average, especially in terms of housing. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals, families, and young professionals seeking to stretch their dollar further. From affordable housing options to lower grocery and utility costs, northeast Ohio offers a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
See housing options in Cuyahoga Falls →
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Highlighted Communities
Cuyahoga Falls
Suburban ● $ ● Schools: B ● Crime: C ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport ● Outdoor Recreation ● Small Town Charm
Picture a place where cascading waterfalls and lush greenery become your backyard. Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and access to a stunning natural environment. Just outside of Akron, Cuyahoga Falls provides a small-town vibe with friendly Midwestern charm. In the downtown, residents browse local shops, and grab coffee at a cozy cafe. The mighty Cuyahoga River winds its way through the city, culminating in the iconic Cuyahoga Falls – a beautiful cascade that serves as the centerpiece of the landscape. The surrounding Cuyahoga Valley National Park entices outdoor enthusiasts with miles of hiking and biking trails, lush forests, and serene lakes. The city takes pride in its excellent public schools, making it a great choice for families. Winters bring a cozy atmosphere with opportunities for sledding, ice skating, and enjoying the beauty of a snow-covered landscape. Spring paints the city in vibrant hues, while summer offers the perfect excuse to cool off by the lakes or explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Overall, Cuyahoga Falls provides a high quality of life with a blend of urban amenities and access to a breathtaking natural environment. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor adventures, or a charming small-town feel, Cuyahoga Falls offers something for everyone.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Stow
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: B ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport ● Green Space ● Tech Sector
Stow offers a suburban lifestyle ideal for families and young professionals seeking a peaceful environment with easy access to amenities. Stow takes pride in its strong sense of community and its reputation as a great place to raise a family. The city boasts highly-rated public schools, numerous parks and playgrounds, and a variety of family-oriented events throughout the year. Residents enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of green space, making it a safe and nurturing environment for children. Stow offers the convenience of suburban living with easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and grocery stores. While not a bustling metropolis, the city has a charming downtown area with local shops and eateries. Several golf courses and nature trails provide opportunities for outdoor recreation without venturing far from home. Stow's location makes it a great option for those who crave a quieter suburban life while maintaining access to the excitement of a larger city. It's situated just 25 miles southeast of Cleveland, offering easy access to cultural attractions, sporting events, and the vibrant energy of a major urban center. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful suburban retreat with the option to experience the buzz of Cleveland whenever desired. Compared to some surrounding areas, Stow offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Housing options range from single-family homes and townhouses to apartments, catering to various budgets and lifestyles. This affordability makes Stow an attractive option for young professionals and families seeking a comfortable standard of living at a good price. While Stow itself might not boast a vast array of job opportunities, its proximity to Cleveland opens doors to a diverse job market. Cleveland's economy is anchored by healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services. The city is also experiencing growth in bioscience and technology sectors. Additionally, Stow's location makes it an attractive option for those who commute to jobs in nearby Akron or Cuyahoga Falls. Overall, Stow provides a peaceful and family-friendly environment with easy access to amenities and green spaces. Its proximity to Cleveland allows residents to enjoy the benefits of a major city while maintaining a quieter suburban lifestyle.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Green
Suburban ● $$ ● Schools: B ● Crime: N/A ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport ● Growing Job Opportunities
Green offers the conveniences of suburban living with easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment options. The city actively invests in improving its infrastructure and amenities, ensuring residents have access to top-notch facilities and services. Green's location allows residents to enjoy the benefits of a peaceful suburban environment while maintaining access to the excitement of larger cities. Situated just south of Akron and within an hour's drive of Cleveland, Green offers easy commutes for those who work in these urban centers. Green itself boasts a healthy job market with a mix of established companies and opportunities for young professionals. Green is home to several manufacturing and logistics companies, offering opportunities in production, assembly, quality control, and supply chain management. The city also has a strong healthcare presence, with hospitals and medical facilities providing jobs for nurses, medical technicians, and administrative staff. The city is also seeing growth in professional and business services sectors, creating opportunities for young professionals in areas like accounting, finance, marketing, and human resources.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Reminderville
Rural ● $$ ● Schools: A ● Crime: A ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport
Reminderville is one of those hidden gems that perfectly blends small-town charm with easy access to everything you need. Tucked between Aurora and Twinsburg, this friendly little village offers a peaceful, rural/suburban vibe while still being just a short drive from Akron and Cleveland. Whether you're looking for top-rated schools, a welcoming community, or plenty of outdoor activities, Reminderville checks all the boxes.
What really makes this place special is its strong sense of community. Neighbors here aren’t just faces—you’ll see them at local events, walking the scenic trails, or hanging out at the state-of-the-art athletic center. There’s plenty of green space for outdoor fun, plus great restaurants and shopping just a few minutes away. With safe streets, well-kept neighborhoods, and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, Reminderville is the kind of place where life feels easy, comfortable, and just right.
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
Fairlawn
Suburban ● $ ● Schools: A ● Crime: A ● Community Health: Average ● Nearby Airport
Fairlawn is the perfect mix of suburban comfort and city convenience. Nestled just outside Akron, this welcoming community offers beautiful neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. It’s a place where life feels easy—whether you're running errands at the bustling shopping centers, grabbing a coffee at a local café, or taking a relaxing walk through one of the many scenic parks. Plus, with quick access to major highways, getting to Cleveland or other nearby cities is a breeze.
What makes Fairlawn stand out is its balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities. You’ll find a strong sense of community here, with fun local events, great restaurants, and a variety of shops that make everyday life enjoyable. The area is known for its safety, well-kept streets, and friendly neighbors, making it a fantastic spot for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you're looking for a vibrant place to raise a family or just want a peaceful yet convenient lifestyle, Fairlawn is a great place to call home!
Great for: Families, Retirees, Young Professionals, Diversity
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