🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Cleveland home for a while, and I must say, it’s a hidden gem. Cleveland, often overlooked by its more glamorous counterparts, offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm, rich history, and a thriving cultural scene. The city vibe is laid-back, with a strong sense of community, making it easy for remote workers to settle in and feel at home. Cleveland digital nomads will appreciate the city’s affordability, with a monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging $1,072 (approximately €950). The city’s cost of living in Cleveland is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their dollars.
I’ve found that Cleveland for remote workers is an excellent choice, offering a great balance of work and play. The city’s scenic Lake Erie shoreline, picturesque parks, and vibrant neighborhoods provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. With a population of 388,072, Cleveland is large enough to offer a diverse range of experiences, yet small enough to maintain a sense of closeness and community. As a digital nomad, I’ve experienced firsthand the city’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals and build a network of friends and colleagues.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing the right neighborhood, Cleveland has plenty to offer. Here are a few of my favorite areas to consider:
- Tremont: This charming neighborhood is known for its historic homes, trendy bars, and eclectic restaurants. It’s a popular spot for young professionals and remote workers, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to choose from. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tremont averages around $1,200 per month (approximately €1,050).
- Ohio City: Located just west of downtown, Ohio City is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with a rich history. It’s home to the famous West Side Market, a bustling hub of food, culture, and community. Ohio City is also a hotspot for craft breweries and independent coffee shops, making it a great spot for remote workers who want to be in the thick of things. A one-bedroom apartment in Ohio City will set you back around $1,100 per month (approximately €950).
- Gordon Square: This up-and-coming neighborhood is quickly becoming a favorite among Cleveland’s creative community. With its trendy bars, restaurants, and shops, Gordon Square is the perfect spot for remote workers who want to be close to the action. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Gordon Square averages around $1,000 per month (approximately €850).
- Downtown Cleveland: For those who want to be in the heart of the city, downtown Cleveland is a great option. With its stunning lakefront views, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to public transportation, downtown is a hub of activity. A one-bedroom apartment in downtown Cleveland will cost around $1,300 per month (approximately €1,100).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Cleveland is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Cleveland is around $1,072 per month (approximately €950).
- Food: Eating out in Cleveland can range from $10 to $20 per meal (approximately €8 to €17), depending on the type of cuisine and restaurant. Groceries are relatively affordable, with a basket of basic items costing around $50 to $75 per week (approximately €42 to €64).
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs around $95 (approximately €80), while a gallon of gas averages around $2.75 (approximately €2.30).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Cleveland typically cost between $200 to $500 per month (approximately €170 to €420), depending on the amenities and services offered.
Internet & Coworking
Cleveland has a relatively fast internet speed, with an average of 42 Mbps. For remote workers, this means seamless video conferencing, fast file uploads, and reliable connectivity. When it comes to coworking spaces, Cleveland has plenty to offer. Some popular options include:
- The Hive: Located in the trendy Tremont neighborhood, The Hive offers a range of membership options, from hot desks to private offices. Prices start at around $200 per month (approximately €170).
- LaunchHouse: With locations in both Lakewood and downtown Cleveland, LaunchHouse is a popular spot for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Membership options range from $100 to $500 per month (approximately €85 to €420).
- Magnet: Located in the heart of downtown Cleveland, Magnet is a state-of-the-art coworking space with a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, printing services, and meeting rooms. Prices start at around $300 per month (approximately €255).
Some popular cafes for remote work include:
- Gypsy Beans & Bakeshoppe: Located in the trendy Gordon Square neighborhood, this cozy cafe offers a range of coffee drinks, baked goods, and light bites. Wi-Fi is fast and reliable, making it a great spot to get work done.
- Loop Cafe: With multiple locations throughout the city, Loop Cafe is a popular spot for remote workers. They offer a range of coffee drinks, sandwiches, and salads, as well as fast and reliable Wi-Fi.
Cleveland has a growing digital nomad community, with a range of meetups and events to connect with like-minded individuals. Some popular groups include:
- Cleveland Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is dedicated to remote workers and digital nomads living in and around Cleveland. With over 500 members, it’s a great spot to connect with others, ask questions, and share resources.
- Cleveland Tech: This meetup group is focused on the tech industry, with regular events and networking opportunities. It’s a great spot to meet other professionals and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments.
- Remote Workers of Cleveland: This group is specifically designed for remote workers, with regular meetups and coworking sessions. It’s a great way to connect with others who understand the challenges and benefits of remote work.
Culture & Lifestyle
Cleveland has a rich cultural scene, with a range of museums, galleries, and performance venues. Some popular attractions include:
- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Located on the lakefront, this iconic museum is a must-visit for music lovers. With a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, it’s a great spot to spend an afternoon.
- The Cleveland Museum of Art: With a collection of over 45,000 works of art, this museum is a treasure trove of culture and history. Admission is free, making it a great spot to visit on a budget.
- The West Side Market: This historic market has been in operation since 1840, offering a range of food, produce, and specialty items. It’s a great spot to try some of Cleveland’s famous cuisine, including pierogies, kielbasa, and Polish boy sandwiches.
When it comes to dating, Cleveland has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some popular spots include:
- The Flats: Located on the lakefront, The Flats is a trendy neighborhood with a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. It’s a great spot to meet new people and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
- Tremont: This charming neighborhood is home to a range of trendy bars and restaurants, including the famous Tremont Tap House. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to navigate the complexities of visa requirements when visiting the United States. For most countries, a tourist visa is sufficient for short-term stays. However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a different type of visa. It’s always best to check with the US embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when visiting Cleveland:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at most major carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Prices start at around $30 per month (approximately €25) for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Cleveland has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. A monthly pass costs around $95 (approximately €80).
- Safety: Cleveland is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s always best to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Weather: Cleveland has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for the winter months and light, breathable clothing for the summer.