From Finding an Apartment to Getting Around: Your Cleveland Expert's Moving Guide

I'm Sandy, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com local expert for Cleveland. I'm a born-and-raised Clevelander, and I know the difference in all of the city's numerous neighborhoods and suburban hotspots. When you're making the move to the CLE, you're looking for good access to the city's amenities, especially the highways, and you likely want a community that offers a good quality of life without breaking the bank. Moving to Cleveland can seem overwhelming, but this guide breaks down exactly what you need to know to feel confident in your next home.

This is your relocation guide to Cleveland, a tool you can use to find where to live and make your move a smooth transition. Whether you're coming in from out of state or moving to the urban center and seeking lake views, you'll know exactly what to expect and how to handle the experience. If you're seeking apartments for rent in Cleveland, we've got some tips for you there, too.

Secure Housing

This is the big first step, and really the one you'll need to have a clear plan for before you move. Many of Cleveland's largest employers operate out of the downtown region, making living near Public Square ideal. However, that's not always the ideal environment for raising a family or having a big backyard that's not blacktop. The good news is you have options.

Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in Cleveland

Take a closer look at some of the best Cleveland neighborhoods and why they matter if you're moving into the city.

West Cleveland

Cleveland has a near-clear division that's informally known as the West Side (everything to the west of Downtown and I-71 and the East Side everything from Downtown and I-77 and east. The West Side has a few specifically sought-after neighborhoods. If you're looking for affordable apartments in Cleveland, the West Side is ideal. Choose the West Side if you're working in the heart of Downtown Cleveland for its proximity. Some of the best choices include:

Ohio City

Located just to the west of the urban center, Ohio City has numerous apartment and condo complexes and numerous single-family homes. It's one of the oldest neighborhoods in the area and has seen a recent resurgence in restoration. It's where the West Side Market is and only minutes from the West 25th corridor and, as a result, I-90. From Ohio City to the downtown area is about a 20-minute drive, and that's even on bad-weather days.

Tremont

Perhaps most recognized for its eclectic and trendy vibe, Tremont has become one of the more popular options for those moving to Cleveland. It's known for its smaller homes and family-style businesses. You'll find it's where everyone heads on the weekend for dinner and drinks. There are not too many high-rises here, but you will find affordable duplex rentals here. Cute brick homes and tree-lined streets make this area beautiful.

Kamm's Corners

For truly affordable apartments and homes for rent in Cleveland, check out the Kamm's Corners area. Located just off I-71 and within minutes of Route 2 and I-480, it's easy to get around the entire area from here. It's also an old-school neighborhood with walkable streets and a friendly bar or restaurant on every corner. Shopping is close, but so are great schools.

The East Side

The East Side of Cleveland is recognized for its elevated and more culturally influenced areas. It's where many of the city's big employers call home, thanks to the presence of the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and Case Western Reserve research centers. It's academic, cultural, and historical. Still, there are some outstanding and affordable rentals in Cleveland on the East Side. If you're working in the University Circle area of Cleveland, the East Side is the better choice.

University Circle

Very popular for students renting in Cleveland due to the proximity to Case and the numerous specialized research centers downtown, University Circle is all about high-rise homes and a modern lifestyle. You'll find some more affordable apartments in University Circle as well, especially just outside of the main Carnegie and Euclid corridor.

Little Italy

Certainly a cultural center here, this is a Cleveland neighborhood known for its vibrant restaurants and nightlife. The main strip isn't very long, only about a mile or so, but branching off from there are numerous small neighborhoods and small, single-family homes. If you're looking for a true neighborhood where you'll feel safe but still want to be part of the thrills, Little Italy is a solid choice.

Glenville

If you're looking for truly affordable apartments in Cleveland, take a look at Glenville. It's another area of the city that's experienced significant growth and redevelopment in the last decade, and that's showing in the presence of modern mid-rise apartments for rent and new condo developments. Glenville is very historic with red brick houses throughout. It's also just to the north of the University Circle area, making it one of the more affordable areas to live in when you're commuting to Case or that area of the city.

Securing Utilities

Once you've found the perfect apartments in Cleveland for your needs, it's time to move in. Cleveland's property owners and management companies typically pay for water and sewer costs, but you're responsible for your other utilities. But, again, this is a huge city and available utility providers are numerous. Let's break down some of the most likely companies you'll need to contact.

Electric

Cleveland Public Power and FirstEnergy (formerly known as the Illuminating Company) both serve residents and businesses within the city of Cleveland. Your provider will depend on your specific address, so it's worth confirming which company services your new home before you move in.

Gas

Enbridge Gas Ohio, once known as Dominion East Ohio, is a main natural gas provider in the city. Natural gas is a necessary tool for heating your home.

Internet

AT&T offers both fiber and SL/IPBB connections and is recognized as a leading provider of internet and cell phone service in the Cleveland area.

Spectrum offers internet services as well and is one of the largest cable companies providing services in the area.

Breezeline, known for its sometimes more affordable internet, offers services in some portions of the city.

Water

Cleveland Water is typically the water provider for all of Cuyahoga County, including Cleveland.

Be sure to check with your property owner for all other services. Typically, trash and sewer are per-location and set up by the property owner. You'll find most cell phone providers service the Cleveland metro area.

Moving Services and Logistics in Cleveland

Your next step will be to make the actual move, and to do that, you'll likely need some help. Remember, Cleveland is a large city, and there are dozens of moving companies available to facilitate the process. It's certainly worth comparing options.

But a word of warning, there are some times of the year when moving companies book quickly. That's especially true in August, when students are moving into dorms around the area colleges, including those in the city such as Cleveland State University, Case Western Reserve University, John Carroll University, and the Cleveland Institute of Art. It's also very busy in May as students are moving out.

There's also weather to consider. Moving in the dead of winter in January is far from ideal and may not even be possible some years. Book these movers in advance.

Some of the largest moving companies in Cleveland include:

• Two Men and a Truck
• Leaders Moving & Storage
• Berman Moving & Storage
• Ace Relocation
• American Van Lines (noted for its long-distance moves across the country)

Many companies will provide you with as much or as little help as you need, including packing services, unpacking services, or just pick up and drop off.

Getting Around Cleveland and Northeast Ohio

Cleveland is a driver's city. While there are numerous public transportation options, most people drive where they need to go. That means parking at your apartment is likely available, and it is likely available where you work or go to school. That is, unless you're heading to the true Downtown of Cleveland near Public Square or around University Circle. Let's consider all of your options.

The Rapid

The Rapid connects you from the heart of Cleveland (with its hub near the Tower City Public Square location) to all of the East Side and West Side suburbs. If you don't plan to drive but want to use public transportation, this is the easiest option. You can also use the transit to get to and from the airport. This is a light rail option, and not as heavily used as in other big cities. If you're heading into the city from the West or East side, the Waterfront Line takes you through the Flats, along to Huntington Bank Field, where the Browns play (as of 2026), and to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Bus Transit

The Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (also known as RTA) is a bus line service. One of the most important routes in the city is the HealthLine. It travels from Euclid Avenue east, making it a vital connector from Downtown to the Cleveland Clinic and University Circle areas.

Rideshare and Bike Share Services

Uber and Lyft are two main rideshare services available in Cleveland. You can also rent a car if you're visiting to explore the city right at the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

As for bike share services, they are available, but not as readily as other companies. Bird, Lime, and Veo all operate e-scooters and e-bikes in the downtown area, giving residents a solid range of affordable micro-mobility options for short trips around the city. If you prefer a more community-oriented option, check out the Ohio City Bicycle Co-Op, a nonprofit volunteer-run organization that offers bike repair and resources for cyclists.

Licensing and Registration Services in Cleveland

It's easy enough to move to Cleveland and start living. But you may need a few additional tips to help you make the move safely and confidently.

Driver's License

If you're moving to Ohio, you'll need to update your driver's license at some point. You also need to update your tags. That can be done at the Ohio BMV. Many of these tasks are done at the neighborhood license bureau, but some grocery stores also have Express kiosks that make the entire process a bit faster.

Your Mail

It's simple enough to go to the US Postal Service website to change your address. If you need a PO Box locally or want to visit the post office, there are numerous locations throughout the city.

Your Pet Licensing

If you have a dog in Cleveland, you'll need to register with the county. This is an annual process. Dog licenses are necessary, and you can face significant fines without one. You can buy the dog license online at the county's website, or you can visit one of the neighborhood locations.

Boating Registration and Licensing

Perhaps you're moving to Cleveland to enjoy lakefront living at its best. If that's the case and you have a boat, you'll need to register it. First, note that if you were born after 1982, you need to complete a Boater Education Course before operating on the lake.

Lake Erie isn't a small lake, and it can be a very violent and ever-changing body of water. As a result, check out the Auxiliary Coast Guard Vessel Safety Checks available that can help you manage your boat safety requirements.

For boat registration, you'll need to complete this at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Watercraft Office. There is a location at 1150 E. 49th Street in Cleveland, or you can use their website to facilitate the process.

Finding the Ideal Place to Call Home

Moving to Cleveland is exciting and provides dozens of opportunities for new experiences. But making the move safely and confidently can take some insight and experience. I've spent my life on Lake Erie, in the Flats as a young adult, and exploring everything from the Cleveland Art Museum to Playhouse Square. Getting to know this city means loving all you can do here.

Finding affordable apartments to rent in Cleveland opens the door to those experiences. Any of the neighborhoods can offer a positive experience, especially as Cleveland continues to grow and thrive.