Sheffield Lake, OH Apartment Renter's Guide

Life in Sheffield Lake is life on the grand Lake Erie, to the west of Cleveland. Just as Ian Hunter chanted "Cleveland rocks! Cleveland rocks!" in his famous hit from 1979, "Cleveland Rocks", the people of Sheffield Lake similarly chant, "Sheffield Lake rocks! Sheffield Lake rocks!"

Welcome to Sheffield Lake, the land by Lake Erie. Cleveland is just a hop, jump, and another hop to the east. Home to 9,137 people, this Lorain County city was constructed by a happening Lake Road scene and rock and roll music (of course). The city is indeed a part of greater Cleveland, which is evident by the amount of Browns jerseys seen on Sunday. Anyway, within this northeastern Ohio metropolitan area, Sheffield Lake is a nice choice, especially since it's still by Lake Erie. Just when the city seems like it's snoozing, a gust of wind from that lake calls everybody to rise, and rock!

A combination of nice parks, location and a very low crime rate keeps Sheffield Lake as a popular place to live in the area. Hence, if you are looking to lease, know that doing some research first can help greatly in finding suitable rental homes in Sheffield Lake. You can't just dock your boat near the Lake Erie shore, hop off and yell that you've arrived.

A Nice Mix

Sheffield Lake, with a renter-occupancy rate of nearly 30%, boasts a nice balance of housing. The city has numerous apartment complexes that focus on the rental market, but there are also a good deal of rental houses and townhouses available if you want something larger and more private. Sheffield Lake rocks! It's true.

A Note about Openings

As a renter, the market works in your favor. However, during certain times of the year, you may discover less choices. If you want to come at a time when choices abound, consider the schools (there are a total of six that serve the city). Many people move to and out of Sheffield Lake when school is on break, which makes winter break and summer vacation the time to move here. If personal obligations don't handcuff your arrival time, come in the summer (the weather is better). If you come during this time, 20 to 25 days should be enough days to locate and complete a lease deal. If you come during another time, like March, allot 30 days.

Bills Don't Rock

This region gets cold and snowy in the winter, as annual snowfall greatly exceeds the national average and temperatures are low. You will need to use the heat. In Sheffield Lake, you can find some pads with heat paid. Having your heat bill included in the monthly rent will inevitably save you some dough. So if you find a studio apartment for rent that offers free heating, don't be a fool. Take it!

Paperwork Doesn't Rock

You have to do the necessary things, like pay one month's rent, provide a credit score and put down a deposit before you can complete the lease and start rocking in Sheffield Lake. Most landlords and management staff will ask for information on your ability to pay rent. Overall, though, the process here is much simpler than in Cleveland. It's very rare that they need any special info like a background check or references, although it's best to be ready for anything. If you rent an apartment at a community, there will be an application and fees, so be aware of that.

The city may only cover 2.48 square miles, but your choice of home makes the difference between whether or not you have views of Lake Erie. It can also make the difference between whether or not you can walk to stores and whatnot. Get your preferences straight, and pick a suitable neighborhood.

Major 'Hoods

Lake Road: Lots of apartments, Shell Cove Park and Lakewood Beach Park define the Lake Road part of town. This area encompasses the part of town lining Lake Erie. The neighborhood is somewhat walkable, but driving is recommended. Some stores and eateries are close.

Forestlawn: In the southwest part of town, Ferndale Park and Freedom Park highlight this area of mainly houses. Most errands necessitate a vehicle, but you can bike during nice days.

Guenther Park: The neighborhood around this park is mostly houses, and is the one part of town where a car is most needed.

Top Apartment Communities

Erie Shore Landing: Located on Lake Road, these apartments offer close proximity to the happening spot of town. Overlooking the lake, this complex showcases a pool, a tanning salon and all utilities paid. Choose among studio, one, and two bedroom pads.

Windjammer Apartments: Also on Lake Road, this complex has one and two bedroom pads and has necessities like a laundry center and storage room. It's close to the lake.

Portside at Mariner's Watch: Spacious floor plans, a heated pool and scenic views define life at these two bedroom homes. As the name suggests, you are close to Lake Erie when you live here.

Although it's very possible to cycle and trek within the city's limits, driving is the way most locals choose to tackle the area. That comes in handy if you want to go to Cleveland for a Cavaliers basketball game, visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and tour the Museum of Art.

Life in Sheffield Lake is life within the Cleveland area. You can go the city when you're bored, but you have enough to do within the town. You could spend a day on and around Lake Road. Start out with a meal at Doughboy's Pizza and Wings. Then have a beverage at Gus' Steak and Ale. After a little walking and digesting, go play at the beach beside Lake Erie or take a boat on the water. If you want to read on some nice lawn space, head to Westshore Park. If you want to be spooked, head to the Haunted Forest of Carousel. For a great social atmosphere, hit up Shoreway Lounge or Amber Oaks. When you are fulfilled, head home to your humble abode. Sheffield Lake, you see, has the big city in its backyard, but it also has a small town feel that's worth praise. Sleep like you are in the countryside. Play like you are in the big city. That's the beauty of Sheffield Lake.