When it comes right down to it, most people in the world want the same thing for themselves and those they love: to feel safe. Although crime has been decreasing in Cleveland (and Ohio) every year since 2000, heightened media coverage sometimes makes it feel like just the opposite. This list contains seven of the safest places to live in greater Cleveland based on crime information from SafeWise, FBI reported crime statistics, and Movoto. The rankings for 'most peaceful' are included as factors like recreation opportunities, and surrounding areas such as National and State Parks.
1. Chagrin Falls
This quaint little town tops the list due to its low crime rate (about 0.25 in 1000), and overall vibe. With lots of families and older residents, Chagrin Falls has plenty to do and see. Cafes and antique stores, great lunch spots, family activities in the summer, and light displays at Christmas. The town was built around a waterfall - it's hard to imagine something more peaceful than that!
2. Olmsted Falls
The reported crime rate in Olmsted Falls decreased from 104 in 2012 to just 39 in 2014. This includes every reported crime, none of which were violent crimes. Just half an hour outside Cleveland, Olmsted Falls has all the hallmarks of a small, caring community without feeling isolated from all the action.
3. Cuyahoga Falls
With a crime rate of only 1.4 in 1000, this charming city makes the cut! This is a particularly low rate for a city of almost 50,000 people. The Cuyahoga River runs through this city, and you can watch the cascades without ever leaving the city. Judging by the first three items on this list, there must be something in the water!
4. Strongsville
The first non-falls of the safest places in Cleveland is community-oriented Strongsville. It has a crime rate of only 0.6 per 1000 residents. For a city with a population of over 44,500, this is impressively low. The majority of the population of Strongville is families and married couples. Only a very small proportion (around 6%) of the population of Strongsville is between the ages of 18 and 24, while roughly 50% are over 45, so most of the entertainment around is designed for families and older people.
5. Brecksville
Named one of the top 10 pleace to raise a family in the US by Family Circle magazine is Brecksville. In 2015 it was named the third safest Ohio city of its size, with a crime rate of only 0.07 per 1000. Only one violent crime was reported in 2013. The city has more boutiques than malls, and is passionate about local business and preserving the natural surrounds. It also boasts one of the top school districts in Ohio, which is shares with Broadview Heights.
6. Broadview Heights
Itself named the second safest Ohio city of its size, and the fifth safest city in the US, Broadview Heights has a crime rate of only 0.67 in 1000. There are lots of activities for kids and seniors, and the proximity to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park makes for great recreational opportunities.
7. Solon
With a crime rate of about 0.3 per 1000, Solon is statistically one of the safest places in Cuyahoga County. Solon is a manufacturing and management hub in the area, with Nestle, CVS, and Cleveland Clinic among some of the biggest employers. As well as this, the Solon Center for the Arts is the creative center of the city, with plays, musicals, dances, and art shows to suit all tastes. Their motto is "Start here... Stay here", which appropriately captures their community spirit.
Of course, crime rates aren't everything, and all statistics are to be taken with a grain of salt. Take a look at our list here of the best neighborhoods in Cleveland from a different perspective. But there's no denying it - when it comes to picking where to live, it's nice to know where the safest places in the city are.
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