Cleveland Transplant Profile: Ann Durbin
How long have you lived in Cleveland?
Less than one year
Where are you originally from or where else have you lived?
I grew up in St. Paul, MN, attended college at Xavier in Cincinnati, then lived the last 10yr in Boston for grad school and starting a family.
Why did you choose to move/move back to Cleveland?
We have wanted to move from Boston to Ohio generally, primarily to raise our two young kids closer to family (across Ohio), and for the cost of living. Cleveland was always our top pick because it has great universities/cultural institutions, beautiful old homes, and vibrant mom-and-pop businesses. And the Cleveland metro area has lots of robust racially/economically diverse public schools, which is important for our young kids. Boston is so rich with intellectual and cultural activity, but is outrageously expensive for housing and childcare, and is very segregated.
Which neighborhood do you currently live in and what are your favorite parts about it?
We bought a gorgeous house with a fenced yard in Shaker Heights. We love the architecture of the old homes, the beautiful trees, and how friendly everyone is!
What is your favorite part of living in Cleveland?
Owning our own home has been a long-time dream, after renting for the last 10yr in Boston. We are so happy in our new neighborhood and have been welcomed very warmly by all our neighbors. We are already getting to know the local businesses – the Wine Spot, Loganberry Books, Fiddlehead Gallery, etc.
How does Cleveland compare to other cities where you’ve lived?
Hard to say, since we moved in the middle of the pandemic and haven’t gotten to visit many of the museums, restaurants, etc.
Where would you take a newcomer to show them the best that Cleveland has to offer?
We have loved hiking in the Metro Parks, and would definitely show off the natural beauty of the surrounding area. We love going for walks all around University Circle. Although my husband is a great cook, we would maybe treat guests to takeout from one of our new favorite restaurants, like Brasica in Van Aken, or Zhug on Cedar Rd, or Lox Stock and Brisket.
What would be your message/advice to other young professionals thinking of relocating to Cleveland?
You can afford to buy a house here!
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