With the motto “pride, tradition, community”, the city of Westlake is a cozy upscale suburb located on Cleveland’s western edge, in Ohio’s Cuyahoga County. The area we now know as wonderful Westlake was initially settled in 1810, when Cleveland was still in its infancy as a stop along the trails into the western frontier. It was initially called “Dover Village”, but was renamed to its current moniker in the 40s, to eliminate confusion with Dover, Ohio.
After the war, the area became the well-liked suburban community it is today, with excellent homes and communities abound! With such a lovely community so close to the Forest City, it’s only natural that many notable people have chosen to make their homes here, including NFL player Jason Kelce and comic and television writer Brian K. Vaughan.
Westlake, OH Population & Demographics
Westlake has a population of 32,275 distributed over 15.9 miles at a population density of about 2,000 people per square mile. The median age here is 46.9, which is about 20% older than the Ohio average of 39.3. The median household income in Westlake is $86,008, which is around 1.5 times the average household income for the state of Ohio, being $56,602. This makes Westlake a more affluent city for Ohio.
The demographics of Westlake’s population is primarily Caucasian, with Whites making up 86% of Westlake’s population. Other ethnic communities are small, but the second largest group, at 5% of the population, is Asians, and Hispanics and Blacks are tied for the third largest at 3%. Westlake’s gender ratio is ever-so-slightly skewed, with 51% of the population being women.
Westlake’s singular zip code is 44145, while the area code is 440. Being only 12 miles from Cleveland’s heart, commuting from Westlake to Cleveland won’t take you long, with the average being a reasonably short 22 minutes.
Thinking about moving to this community, but wondering if Westlake is a safe place to live? Well, have no fear! Westlake is among the safest of Cleveland’s suburban communities, with an excellent A+ rating on Areavibes. The total crime rate here is 59% lower than the national average, with violent crime being 67% lower, and property crime being 58% lower. You and your family will be safe as houses in Westlake!
Cost of Living in Westlake, OH
Compared to other nice suburbs around the country, Westlake is very affordable, but will still weigh on your wallet just a bit, with the cost of living here being 21% higher than most places in the United States, according to Payscale. Homes in Westlake will cost you around $258,600, which is around 1.5 times higher than the average Ohio home price of $145,700. If you choose to move to Westlake, you’ll find that you’ll be paying more for things like groceries, transportation, and utilities, but not overly so, mostly by degrees of 3-5%. Renting is fairly expensive for Ohio, at an average of $1,322 per month for all units.
Compared to the rest of Ohio, Westlake is certainly expensive, but this community might just surprise you with how the finances add up, especially when compared to other suburban communities of similar calibers!
Best Neighborhoods in Westlake, OH | Where to Live
Westlake is a suburb bustling with all sorts of unique communities, ripe to be explored by you! Whether it’s hip you want, or more quiet and cozy neighborhoods, Westlake will have something for you! Check out some of your neighborhood options below:
In terms of property prices, the most pricey of the bunch are located on Westlake’s west side, in neighborhoods such as Hilliard Boulevard, which has the highest property prices in the city. However, Westlake’s most affordable portion, West Dover, is also in Westlake’s west, the northern part particularly. Neighborhoods like Detroit Road, located on Westlake’s east, closer to Cleveland, are more modest in price.
If you want to make yourself a part of any of these communities, you should check out the latest listings for homes for sale in Westlake, OH.
If you want to know where things are, check out this map of Westlake.
Westlake, OH Climate & Weather
The Great Lakes will keep Westlake nice and cool during the summer, but be ready to get dumped on by snow in the winter! You can expect lows of 22 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months, and highs of 83 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. Westlake experiences more than the average amount of rainfall when compared with the rest of the United States, with 39 inches per year as compared to 38 inches. Meanwhile, Westlake experiences much more snow than the national average, with 53 inches as compared to 28. The best times to visit Westlake, in terms of comfort rating, are June and September.
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Things to Do in Westlake, OH
Despite being so close to Cleveland, you won’t need to drive those 12 miles to have some fun! Whether it’s shopping or fun attractions for the whole family, Westlake has got you covered! Check out shopping centers nearby like the Crocker Park shopping mall for all your shopping needs! You should also check out some of the best things to do in Westlake, OH below:
Skyzone Trampoline Park
While a trampoline park may not be as much of a staple in American life as amusement parks, we assure you that this one is just as fun! Skyzone is a popular attraction for Westlake natives with kids, and is sure to create a day to remember!
31500 Viking Pkwy, Westlake, OH 44145, +14404675867
Crocker Park
Crocker Park is one of Westlake’s finest open air malls, beloved by locals for its fantastic array of shops and things to do. A one-stop-shop for a day full of fun, there’s a reason this mall is beloved by locals!
177 Market St, Westlake, OH 44145, +14408359343
Westlake, OH Additional Attractions:
Restaurants in Westlake, OH
Alongside its host of things to do, Westlake is also home to plenty of great eats! Check out some below:
Burntwood Tavern
Those moving to Westlake will quickly find that taverns and bars are just as popular here as any other community, if not more so! Burntwood Tavern stands out as one of the best selections in the area, serving great drinks and great eats alike! Perfect for a night out with the guys or girls.
12 Main St, Westlake, OH 44145, +14404551732
Rosewood Grill
Rosewood Grill is an upscale Westlake grill for an upscale community. Dealing with what they call “uplifted” American cuisine,this grill is sure to please those with more refined taste, and is perfect for a birthday, business celebration, or any other event that needs some class!
2033 Crocker Rd, Westlake, OH 44145, +14408359500
Westlake, OH Schools & Colleges
Westlake is served by the excellent Westlake City School District, which has 100% of their schools rated “Above Average” by Greatschools. Many choose to live in Westlake because of the multitude of great schools you can gain access to here! Some highlights in terms of local schools include the Hilliard Elementary School, Lee Burneson Middle School, and Westlake High School. You can rest easy knowing your child will be in good hands during your stay in Westlake!
Jobs in Westlake, OH
Those planning on making a living in Westlake should know that wages and cost of living have both been going up, but at differing rates, according to Payscale. The most popular positions of employment are Software Developer, Digital Marketing Specialist, and Account Manager. The largest employers in the Westlake area are Hyland Software, Inc., American Greetings Corporation, and Nordson Corporation. The average salary for a worker in Westlake is $62k a year, while the average hourly wage is $16.83.
Westlake has plenty of opportunities for those with a watchful eye! Check out the latest listings for jobs in Westlake, OH here.
Moving to Westlake, OH Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Relatively affordable for a great suburb
- Safe and cozy community
- Short drive to Cleveland
Cons:
- Pretty pricey when compared to the rest of Ohio
Ready to take that last step and start your journey to making Westlake your new home? Give Summit Moving a call! Our crew of highly-trained professional Westlake movers will ensure your move is a stress-free process at affordable rates! Call now or fill out our online form for a free quote!
