Falling in Love with a Great City

by Lizzie Schultz

As a self-proclaimed east sider, I could barely envision myself transplanting to the far western suburbs of Cleveland. I loved my multicultural haunts within the Cuyahoga and Chagrin Valleys like the close-knit, walkable neighborhoods, diverse restaurants that proudly claim the streets, and, of course, the highly-rated Metroparks. To me, the eastern suburbs of Cleveland have always been, to put it simply, "where it's at."

I would be lying if I didn't admit I had some skepticism about venturing from the well-established town of Chagrin Falls to the so-called "rust belt" city of Lorain.

This city seemed to dissolve all too quickly while frequently taking picturesque lakeshore drives to the islands in the summer.

What I have come to find is that Lorain has incredible sunsets, a very welcoming yet laid-back community vibe, a rich industrial history, and very affordable amenities. With the Jet Express operating right out of Lorain Harbor, you are also only a short boat trip from visiting the islands or watching the Browns play in Cleveland.

These are only a few of the appealing features that led me to discover all that Lorain is and, most importantly, all that it's becoming!

Lakeview Park & Beach—Lorain, Ohio

photo by Jen Navarro

As love would have it, I ultimately found myself transplanted to the other side of Cleveland. I was lucky to spend a few years in Vermilion's quaint harbor town before settling into our current dream home here in Lorain.

Over the past three years, we knew our expanding family would outgrow our home in Vermilion and realized we were unwilling to part from this perfect balance of idyllic lake life and affordability.

As an Occupational Therapy Practitioner, I typically have it made when it comes to finding a job in Northeast Ohio, regardless of what side of town I find myself living. As I began working here in Lorain, it was a breath of fresh air to find employers that hold high standards in patient care, outpatient therapy, and community outreach are a part of an integral part of this community.

I can't say this was something I experienced while working for larger contract therapy companies in and around Cleveland, yet this is another excellent reason to be proud to live and work right here in Lorain.

Low housing prices and incentives combined with a lower cost of living are other impressive selling points for this city and what helps to make homeownership an attainable goal for many families, including mine.

The city of Lorain has experienced immense growth in the past few years. It's impossible not to feel the vibrancy while walking down the newly restored Broadway Streetscape. New restaurants, sports bars, coffee shops, and a beautiful boutique hotel seem to leave little left to desire.

From the Rockin' on the River concert series to numerous festivals situated along the scenic Black River, I wouldn't want to spend my summer or the rest of my life anywhere else.

From my family to yours, welcome to the city of Lorain.

Welcome to Lorain, Ohio

photo by Jen Navarro