Cleveland Emerges as Top Retirement Destination in Midwest

Affordable housing, world-class healthcare, and abundant entertainment options drive the city's comeback

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Cleveland, Ohio has seen a resurgence in recent years, emerging as a top retirement destination in the Midwest. With the Cleveland Clinic ranked as the second-best hospital in the world, the city offers retirees access to high-quality healthcare services. Additionally, Cleveland's low cost of living, professional sports teams, cultural attractions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and extensive trail network make it an appealing place for those looking to retire.

Why it matters

As more Americans approach retirement age, the availability of affordable, amenity-rich cities with top-tier healthcare becomes increasingly important. Cleveland's combination of cost-effectiveness and world-class resources positions it as an attractive option for retirees, particularly those in the Midwest looking to stretch their retirement savings.

The details

Cleveland's affordability is a major draw, with Realtor.com ranking it the second-most affordable U.S. metro based on income. An annual household income of $66,500 is enough to comfortably buy a home and live well in the city. Beyond just low costs, Cleveland offers retirees access to the renowned Cleveland Clinic, which Newsweek has ranked as the world's second-best hospital for seven consecutive years. The city is also home to professional sports teams, cultural institutions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and an extensive 325-mile trail network for outdoor recreation.

  • Cleveland has seen two consecutive years of population growth after multiple years of decline.
  • The Cleveland Clinic has been ranked as the world's second-best hospital for seven consecutive years as of 2026.

The players

Cleveland Clinic

A world-renowned healthcare provider that employs more than 80,000 caregivers, making it easier for Clevelanders to access high-quality medical services.

Cleveland Guardians

One of Cleveland's professional sports teams that call the city home, providing entertainment options for retirees.

Edgewater Park

A 9,000-foot shoreline on Lake Erie that offers a beautiful setting for retirees to enjoy the outdoors.

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The takeaway

Cleveland's resurgence as a top retirement destination in the Midwest is driven by its affordable cost of living, access to world-class healthcare, abundance of entertainment and recreation options, and overall quality of life - proving that the city offers retirees far more than just a low price tag.