Relocating to Cleveland from Richmond, VA (Lakewood, Cleveland Heights: home, neighborhood, good schools)

[Dakota-Reed]

We may be relocating to Cleveland soon and I don't know the first thing about Cleveland. I have lived in Northern, Virginia for most of my life and moved further south to the Richmond, Virginia area almost 4 years ago. Northern, Virginia is very diverse and you have access to just about everything, since it is so close to Washington, DC. Richmond is still somewhat segregated, people are not very friendly and they keep to themselves. We have a 9 year old son and we are in our early 40's. We would like to find a neighborhood that is safe, near good schools and not to far from shopping and local attractions. Maybe somewhere where people actually speak to and care about there neighbors. We are looking for a single family home with 3 - 4 bedrooms, contemporary and in the 200,00 to 450,000 range. Can anyone help? Thanks in advance!

[Ctown2VA]

Dakota,

I left Cleveland to go to school in Charlottesville and have lived in NOVA for the past 4 years. Just thought that was an interesting similarity.

Anyways, I would suggest that you look at the Cleveland and Shaker Heights areas. Great schools both public and private. A little further out from the city I would suggest The Chagrin Falls and Solon areas. Its a little more suburban, but fantastic schools and a little more laid back.

Good luck!!!

[Traveler87]

Don't forget the western suburbs. Can be more pricey, but lots of ammenities. Bay Village, Avon Lake, Westlake all offer great shopping and restaurants. They are right next to the lake, great beaches, and close to the awesome Cleveland metro parks system, which is one of the best in the nation. Bay Village and Avon Lake rank among the top 100 school systems in the country. And the western suburbs are not far from Downtown Cleveland.

[costello_musicman]

I would look into Lakewood to add to the list--interesting, dense and "neighborly," and good schools/affordable housing.

[WeSoHood]

Originally Posted by costello_musicman

I would look into Lakewood to add to the list--interesting, dense and "neighborly," and good schools/affordable housing.

x2 Lakewood, Cleveland Heights, and Shaker. I base this totally off of what the original poster said he has lived. I've lived in NoVa too and these areas will be most similar (roughly speaking)

[MiamiU08]

I'll add to the credibility of the Western suburbs. I grew up there and couldn't imagine a friendlier and fuller area. Plenty to do and see, good mix of suburbs and metroparks, and close to the city. On the whole, I've found the West suburbs to be much more open and welcoming than the Eastern suburbs. Good luck!