{"id":140257,"date":"2025-05-21T05:34:37","date_gmt":"2025-05-21T12:34:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rentcafe.com\/blog\/?p=140257"},"modified":"2026-02-18T23:11:00","modified_gmt":"2026-02-19T07:11:00","slug":"renters-cost-of-living-in-cleveland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rentcafe.com\/blog\/local-resources\/renters-cost-of-living-in-cleveland\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Living in Cleveland: What to Expect When Living Here as a Renter"},"content":{"rendered":"

Relocating to a new city can be exciting, especially when you\u2019re starting fresh in a new apartment<\/a>. But, before packing boxes and signing a lease, it\u2019s important to get a good grip on what your budget will look like in your new city. That means more than just knowing what rent costs. Rather, it\u2019s about the cost of living: utilities, groceries, health care and even the occasional night out.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re eyeing Cleveland<\/a>, you\u2019re not alone: This vibrant Midwest city ranks as the ninth-most sought-after spot<\/a> among apartment-hunters in 2025. And, with a growing number of renters considering Cleveland for its charm and affordability, knowing the cost of living in Cleveland<\/a> is key before making the leap.<\/p>\n

With that in mind, let\u2019s take a closer look at what renters can expect when comparing Cleveland\u2019s expenses with those of the rest of Ohio and the U.S.<\/p>\n

What is the average cost of living in Cleveland?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Cleveland<\/a> offers a unique mix of affordability and opportunity, making it a great option for renters looking to make the most of their monthly income. The median household income in Cleveland is $39,187, and the overall cost of living in Cleveland is 1% lower than the Ohio average and about 9% lower than the national average. Additionally, housing \u2014 which is typically the largest monthly expense for renters \u2014 is 19% more affordable than the U.S. average, thereby allowing renters to get more space or better amenities without stretching their budget.<\/p>\n

\"Organized<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, utilities in Cleveland come in at around 14% less than the national average, offering some welcome relief during seasonal highs in heating or cooling costs. Otherwise, grocery prices are right in line with the rest of the country, while clothing costs about 4% less. This balance helps renters manage everyday expenses without major surprises, making Cleveland an easier city to plan for financially.<\/p>\n

Health care in Cleveland is also more affordable with services like doctor visits and dental check-ups costing about 8% less than the national average. Non-essential expenses \u2014 such as entertainment and grooming services \u2014 are around 4% more affordable, too.<\/p>\n

Is Cleveland a great pick for renters?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The average cost of living in Cleveland in 2025 is lower than both the Ohio average and the national average. As such, renters benefit from housing that\u2019s significantly more affordable, along with lower costs for utilities, health care and entertainment. While groceries stay on par with the rest of the country, clothing and services (like haircuts or movie tickets) tend to cost a little less.<\/p>\n

\"Aerial<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re trying to compare the cost of living between cities in Ohio or across the country, Cleveland stands out as a smart choice for renters. With solid affordability across essential categories and a growing reputation as a top rental market, it\u2019s easy to see why more and more renters are looking for apartments in Cleveland.<\/p>\n

Plus, if you\u2019re planning a move to Cleveland, knowing what to expect financially can take the stress out of the process. The city\u2019s affordability \u2014 paired with its rising popularity among apartment-seekers \u2014 makes it a top pick for renters across the country<\/a>.<\/p>\n

So, if you\u2019re on the hunt for a new apartment and weighing your options, take a close look at what Cleveland has to offer. When you compare the cost of living here to other cities, you\u2019ll see why so many renters are making Cleveland their next home.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Relocating to a new city can be exciting, especially when you\u2019re starting fresh in a new apartment. But, before packing boxes and signing a lease, it\u2019s important to get a good grip on what your budget will look like in your new city. That means more than just knowing what rent costs. Rather, it\u2019s about…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3055,"featured_media":140264,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[38883,38986],"class_list":["post-140257","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-resources","tag-cleveland-oh-local-guides","tag-cost-of-living","gallery-content-unit"],"yoast_head":"\nWhat to Expect When Living in Cleveland as a Renter<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Thinking about renting in Cleveland? 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