Lakewood

On the shores of Lake Erie in Cuyahoga County and seven miles west of Cleveland lies Lakewood, Ohio. Providing its 50,259 residents an urban/suburban feel, it sports the highest population density of any city in Ohio (9,426.9 residents per square mile) and is similar to Washington D.C. in that regard. The city is suitable for young professionals and families alike, as there are several attractions that cater to each. Its proximity to downtown Cleveland (15 minutes by car) is also a noted perk.

The median age in Lakewood is 34.7 years old, 57% of citizens rent their living space, and 44% have children under the age of 18. The median household income is $53,290, and the most common employment positions are management occupations (11.2%), sales and related occupations (11.2%), and office and administrative support occupations (10.2%).

Lakewood is the elusive community that provides the best of both worlds: it is quiet, safe, and has excellent public schools, but there is also quite a bit to do in the city, with several popular bars and restaurants in operation (like 16-bit, The Side Quest, and Griffin Cider House). It is also home to the breathtaking Lakewood Park and its Solstice Steps, and the amazing Sanctuary Museum (formerly known as The Museum of Divine Statues).

Such versatility has garnered the city of Lakewood numerous awards including being named as one of the Top 10 Suburbs in the USA by Travel + Leisure Magazine, the best place to raise your kids in 2010 by Business Week, and 1 of 13 of the "Best Places in the Midwest to Buy an Old House” by The Old House Magazine.