Amherst is known as the “Sandstone Capital of the World,” due to its numerous sandstone quarries that date back to the mid-1800s. The Buckeye Quarry was one of the largest in the world, with a length of 3,090 feet, a width of 1,056 feet, and a depth of over 240 feet. The city is full of small-town charm, with safe streets, highly rated schools, and a vibrant local culture. Sometimes referred to as North Amherst due to its location at the top of the state, living in Amherst OH is wonderful.
North Amherst has a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, including the Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation and the Hollstein Reservation. Community events, such as the annual Miracle on Main Street holiday celebration, help foster Amherst’s close-knit spirit and pride. With a low crime rate, a thriving school system, and a mix of historic sandstone homes and modern subdivisions, Amherst offers a high quality of life for families and professionals. You’ll love the small-town charm when living in Amherst OH.
Table of Contents
Where Is Amherst, OH?
Amherst is a city in Lorain County, Ohio, located about 28 miles west of Cleveland and 2.5 miles south of Lake Erie. Amherst is one of the neighborhoods in Cleveland.
Map of Amherst, OH
Check out more of the location and take note of the beautiful places nearby with this map:
Amherst OH Population and Demographics
The Amherst population is 12,796 according to the latest Census data. Those living in Amherst OH have a rich European heritage, as is reflected in the ancestry of many of its individuals. A large portion of the community traces its start to Germany, which accounts for nearly 30% of the population, while other strong ancestral ties include Irish, English, Polish, Hungarian, Italian, and Slovak backgrounds.
These diverse European influences have shaped the character of the city, from their shared family traditions and cultural pride to how they shaped the food, architecture, and community spirit still present today.
Race & Ethnicity
- White alone 84.5%
- Black or African American alone 1.2%
- Asian alone 2.7%
- Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone 0.1%
- Two or more races 4.9%
- Hispanic 6.6%
Overview of Amherst’s Demographics
- Population density: 1,806.3 per square mile
- Median age: 43.4
- Sex ratio: 48.7% males, 51.3% females
- Median household income: $93,043
- Median income: $88,897
- Poverty line: 4.54%
- Educational attainment: 95.9% high school degree or higher, 32.3% bachelor’s degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 4.3%
- Veteran population: 819
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Most people living in Amherst OH view it as one of the safest neighborhoods in Cleveland, and the Amherst Police Department, along with its 26 sworn officers, strives to protect the safety, rights, and property of every person in this quaint village. They are committed to serving with professionalism, fairness, and respect while fostering trust between officers and residents. The crime rate in Amherst is 794 per 100,000 people, which is 65% lower than the national average. The violent crime rate in Amherst is 62 crimes per 100,000 people, 83% below the national average.
Amherst OH Cost of Living
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Amherst is a very affordable place to live. The cost of living in Amherst is 6% lower than the US average and lower than the cost of living in Cleveland. The biggest factor in the Amherst cost of living is housing. Housing costs in the city are 12% lower than the national average, making Amherst a great place to buy an Ohio home. The median sale price of a home in Amherst is $289,000. Of the Amherst OH real estate, the average square foot cost is $175.
Check out some of the many current Amherst OH homes for sale. If you are interested in renting, rental prices average $1,400 a month, per Zillow, which is 33% lower than the national average. Check out currently available Amherst OH apartments and Amherst OH houses for rent on RentCafe.
Typical Amherst Living Expenses:
- Meal, inexpensive restaurant: $17.50
- Domestic beer: $4.50
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.16
- Dozen eggs: $4.02
- 1 pound of chicken: $5.50
- Average Amherst monthly utility bill: $279.29 (most utilities are serviced by the same providers as Cleveland utilities)
Source: Numbeo, Cleveland Metro
The Best Neighborhoods in Amherst
Amherst is a sought-after community for its low-cost housing and neighborhoods that offer a sense of privacy. Home styles range from modest ranch-style to Colonial Revival with expansive acreage. Downtown offers 19th-century American Foursquares and bungalows. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Amherst:
The Reserve at Beaver Creek
This is a newer subdivision that features modern, ranch-style homes with larger lots. It is conveniently close to major roads for easy access to shopping, dining, and commuting. Beaver Creek Reservation is close by as well. Definitely check it out when living in Amherst OH!
English Lakes
If living in Amherst OH is in your future, this neighborhood has an affordable mix of townhomes and small-lot single-family homes. The community is somewhat close to neighborhood schools and local parks. Access to downtown stores and restaurants is quick.
North Amherst
This is a quiet community with mid-century ranch homes, colonial-style houses, and updated two-story homes. Good schools, parks, like Beaver Creek Reservation, and shopping centers that are only minutes away. Many are moving to North Amherst.
Amherst OH Weather & Climate
Living in Amherst OH comes with a humid continental climate that offers four distinct seasons. The weather near Amherst, OH can be both cold and extremely hot. Winters are cold, while summers are warm and humid. Average summer temperatures hover around 70°F, while winter temperatures are chilly, typically dropping to about 20°F.
Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, although thunderstorms are more common in spring and summer. Snowfall occurs mainly between October and March. On average, Amherst receives 39 inches of rain and 51 inches of snow annually, compared to the U.S. averages of 38 inches of rain and 28 inches of snow. Residents enjoy about 161 sunny days per year. The best time of year to visit Amherst is from mid-June to mid-September.
Things to Do in Amherst OH
Amherst offers a variety of sites to see and activities to do for all ages. You’ll also find convenient local businesses at The Mermaid’s Tale, The Clothing Loft Boutique, and Great Northern Mall. Here are some of the top things to do when living in Amherst OH:
Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation
Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation spans 108 acres and consists of mature woodlands and floodplains. Amenities include a 1.4-mile paved loop trail, a reservable shelter, a playground, a soccer field, and a visitor center. The park houses a wide variety of natural habitats and offers many recreational activities when living in Amherst OH.
913 N Lake St, Amherst, OH 44001, (440) 458-5121
Lorain Skate World
Lorain Skate World offers fun for all ages, with live organ skating, family nights, adult-only sessions, and retro-themed evenings with music from the ’70s to ’90s. Tiny Tot Skate is great for kids. Lorain Skate World also offers skating classes for all skill levels. It’s a favorite amongst those living in Amherst OH.
4952 W Erie Ave, Lorain, OH 44053, (440) 282-2567
Amherst HealthPlex
Amherst HealthPlex is a 50,000-square-foot recreation center that offers a wide range of fitness and family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool with a two-story water slide, therapy pool, and hot tub. Besides a full fitness center, the healthplex also offers yoga, Pilates, TRX, boot camp, water aerobics, a playground for children, and a splash pad.
47160 Hollstein Dr, Amherst, OH 44001, (440) 984-3470
Additional Attractions near Amherst, OH:
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When you’re living in Amherst OH, there’s so much to do. Amherst is home to a variety of parks and recreational spaces that are perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Maude Neiding Memorial Park offers a mulched playground, paved walking paths, and a community pool, which is open in summer. Amherst Township Park features sports fields, a jungle gym, and swings.
A great place to explore nature is at Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation, a 108-acre haven with hiking trails, picnic areas, and the scenic 1.5-mile Beaver Creek Trail along the water. The nearby FoxCreek Golf & Racquet Club features an 18-hole championship course and indoor tennis facilities.
Amherst OH Restaurants
Amherst offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that caters to a variety of tastes. Classic American comfort food, hearty barbecue, fresh pizza, pub fare, international flavors, and casual family-friendly dining are just a few of the available choices. Amherst has something to satisfy every palate and occasion. You have to check out these delicious restaurants when living in Amherst OH.
Blue Sky Restaurant
Blue Sky Restaurant is a local favorite, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and classic American comfort food. Blue Sky features hearty breakfasts, fresh salads, sandwiches, and satisfying dinner plates. This is a favorite of those living in Amherst OH.
917 N Leavitt Rd, Amherst, OH 44001, (440) 984-2583
Moosehead BBQ Grill
Moosehead BBQ Grill is a must-see for barbecue lovers. It features house-smoked meats cooked low and slow over real wood for rich, smoky flavor. Highlights include tender ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and sausages made with carefully selected ingredients and homemade signature sauces crafted in-house.
7660 Leavitt Rd, Amherst, OH 44001, (440) 985-7429
La Plaza Taqueria
La Plaza Taqueria serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant, family-friendly setting. All their dishes, including tacos, burritos, tortas, tamales, and creative dishes like buffalo chicken and Reuben wraps, are made with fresh ingredients. Many living in Amherst OH consider this a top place to eat.
1190 Milan Ave, Amherst, OH 44001, (440) 683-5851
Jobs in Amherst OH
When living in Amherst OH, there are plenty of jobs around you. Major industries in Amherst include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail trade. Amherst’s proximity to Cleveland offers additional employment possibilities. A major employer in Amherst is the UH Amherst Health Center, a comprehensive medical facility offering a wide range of primary and specialty care services, such as cardiology, pediatrics, and women’s health.
The health center employs over 1,780 physicians and 3,500 affiliated medical staff members. Other major employers in Amherst include the Nordson Corporation, Kroger, United States Steel, and Ford Motor Company. If you’re looking for a job in Amherst, check out Indeed and the City of Amherst employment opportunities.
Schools in Amherst OH
Many people enjoy living in Amherst OH thanks to the great school district. Amherst is primarily served by the Amherst Exempted Village School District, enrolling more than 3,500 students across its single elementary, middle, junior high, and high schools. The district is highly rated in the state. Most high school students in Amherst attend Marion L. Steele High, known for its strong academic programs. The school offers 7 Advanced Placement courses to prepare students for college. The district is committed to fostering a nurturing and dynamic learning environment, with a mission to guide, prepare, and inspire every student to pursue their goals and contribute positively to their community and the world.
For those seeking alternatives, private schools such as Lorain Preparatory Academy, Lake Ridge Academy, and Grand River Academy provide additional educational options.
Residents interested in higher education can attend Lorain County Community College, Case Western Reserve University, Kent State University, and Cleveland State University.
For a day of leisure and learning, the Amherst Public Library offers a wide selection of books, magazines, CDs, e-books, movies, music, and more. Be sure to explore their calendar of events, which features programs and activities for all ages, from infants and toddlers to adults.
Amherst OH Statistics & Information
- Amherst county: Lorain County
- Amherst area: 7.14 square miles
- Amherst OH zip code: 44001
- Amherst area codes: 440
- Amherst elevation: 646 feet
- Amherst time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5 and -6)
- Closest airport to Amherst: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), 23 miles away
FAQs About Living in Amherst OH
Is Amherst a Suburb of Cleveland?
Yes, Amherst is a suburb of Cleveland Ohio.
What Is the Curfew in Amherst Ohio?
There are separate curfews in Amherst Ohio, depending on age. Kids 12 and under must be home by 10 PM, while those ages 13 to 15 must be home by 11 PM. Teens 16 and older must be off the streets by midnight. There’s also a daytime curfew during the school year, which restricts minors who aren’t excused from school from being in public between 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM on school days.
When Was the Last Tornado in Amherst, Ohio?
The latest tornado in Amherst Ohio was in June 2025. However, the last severely damaging tornado was back in June 2011, when several homes and buildings were destroyed.
Moving to North Amherst? We Can Help You Relocate
There’s so much to love about living in Amherst OH. If you’re relocating nearby to Amherst or moving to North Amherst in the future, trust Summit Moving to help you get there. Whether you need help with local moving, long distance moving, or even some storage, Summit Moving can do it all. Contact our Cleveland movers today at 216-641-6677 for a free quote.
