Cleveland most definitely has an unfair reputation. For decades people have been turning their noses up at what they saw as a declining Rustbelt relic. But what they don't know is that Cleveland is just as amazing as it's always been. With world-class institutions and entertainment, and national bests in many fields, we've got a lot more going on than we're ever given credit for. So here are the reasons why Cleveland is the most underrated city in the U.S. Once you have read about all the best things about living in Cleveland, you just might want to move here yourself.
1. We have the best orchestra in the country.
The Cleveland Orchestra has been called the "finest orchestra in the country," and you only have to listen to them once to understand why. Whether you're into classical music or not, the CSO has something for you. Their repertoire is second to none, and the quality of the music is just outstanding. Are you a music lover and wondering "is Cleveland a good place to live?" If so, we can tell you the answer is a resounding "yes!"
2. We have the second-best art museum in the country.
After the Met in New York, the Cleveland Museum of Art has been named the best art museum in the country. The collection is world-class, and the CMA holds regular events for kids, adults, and families in order to get people involved in the arts. Plus, admission is free.
3. Cleveland is literally underrated in sports.
None of the experts thought the Cavs would win the championship. None of the experts thought the Indians would make it to the World Series. Skepticism and doubt came from all sides: no one thought Cleveland would excel. No one but Clevelanders, because we knew better. And just look at us now! Some of the best athletes in the US have been moving to Cleveland to improve our scene even more.
4. We have the best Metroparks in the country.
The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association, awarded Cleveland the Gold Medal for Metroparks management in 2016. It's the fourth time we've held that honor since 1994. The Cleveland Metroparks offer all kinds of activities - from walking, hiking, and bike riding to magical Christmas train rides and medicinal plant workshops. They're home to the Cleveland Zoo and miles and miles of trails for you to explore.
5. We helped start the Civil War.
According to historian and author Nat Brandt, it was a series of events occurring in Oberlin, OH, that catalyzed the beginning of the Civil War. The Abolitionist movement from Oberlin to Cleveland enraged pro-slavery sentiments in surrounding counties, cities, and states. One night, the townspeople of Oberlin and surrounding towns got together to free a runaway slave named John Price, who had been kidnapped by US Marshals. This Abolitionist jailbreak is credited as a breaking point that led to the beginning of the war.
6. We have access to world-class food.
Whether you're a staunch traditionalist or want to taste every food on the planet, Cleveland's burgeoning food scene has something for you. World-famous chefs like Michael Symon, Jonathan Sawyer, and Dante Boccuzzi are changing the food scene to include new and interesting local ingredients, as well as reinventing old favorites like BBQ. They're supporting local businesses and farmers in the process, and improving Cleveland's national and global image among foodies. In addition, there are local favorites like Slyman's that have been keeping every palate and budget in Cleveland happy and satisfied for years.
7. We have some of the best healthcare in the country.
Cleveland Clinic was named the number two hospital in the country for 2016-2017 by the US News & World Rankings. It's ranked number one for cardiology and heart surgery in the US, and nine of its other programs were ranked top five in the nation. This is good news for both the general population, and anyone in Ohio wanting to study medicine or specialize in certain medical fields.
8. It's highly affordable.
The cost of living in Cleveland is between 10% and 21% below the national average (depending on the region taken into account and the means of calculating averages). Much of this is due to the low cost of housing, which has yet to fully recover from the Great Recession. But saving money on rent and mortgages means that other things in life are also more affordable.
9. Clevelanders are very welcoming.
As someone who moved to Cleveland, I can attest: Clevelanders are some of the nicest people I have ever met. If you respect them and their city, they will welcome you with open arms. You'll have recommendations for cafes, bars, restaurants, bands, and activities before you ever have to ask anyone. You'll get hugs and handshakes and how-are-yous from people you barely know. You will never be left without an invitation of friendship.
10. We have perfect seasons.
Okay, so our winters are harsh, and our weather can be a bit unpredictable, but we get all four seasons. Warm summers for swimming in Lake Erie, beautiful falls to enjoy the Metroparks' colorful displays, chilly and snowy winters for the perfect white Christmas, and blooming green springs to bring all that color and vitality back.
11. It might survive the end of the world.
Finally, we know why so many dystopia or apocalypse films are set in the Midwest: we might just be the final frontier! Jeff Opperman, Nature Conservancy's senior advisor for sustainable hydropower, suggests that in the United States, Cleveland will be the city that is "most resilient/least vulnerable to climate change." Its geographic and climatic position means it's relatively invulnerable to rising sea levels, increased temperatures, and an increase in natural disasters, and its proximity to the Great Lakes means a sustainable long-term fresh water source. So, while you might think those disaster movies would indicate that there are some weird things about Cleveland, they really show that it's disaster-proof!
12. It might be the beer capital of the country.
William Bostwick, the author of 'The Brewer’s Tale: A History of the World According to Beer', states the Midwest was the original beer capital of the United States. The coasts have dominated the beer game for a while, but the Midwest has snuck up and taken over in recent years. Bostwick asserts Cleveland is currently leading the beer scene in the U.S. Even better is that you can still get an artisan or microbrew draft for under $5!
The second largest in the country, and the largest outside Manhattan, Playhouse Square hosts some of the best theater, music, comedy, and dance in the country. It sees international acts, home-grown heroes, and traveling Broadway productions.
14. The job market is growing and diversifying every year.
The job market in Cleveland is on the rise. While traditional manufacturing jobs are declining, jobs in other markets are steadily increasing. Each year since the Great Recession there have been more jobs, more job ads, lower unemployment rates, and a more diversified labor market. The health and technology sectors have experienced significant growth, as have the arts and recreation, education, and management.
These are 14 of the reasons Cleveland is the most underrated city in the U.S. What else would you add? Please let us know in the comments section. We are always happy to hear your thoughts!
If you are looking for even more fun things to do in this city, check out Airbnb Experiences. You'll find fun activities for every taste.
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