Cleveland, TN Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Cleveland, TN: What You Need to Know

Cleveland, Tennessee, shares the same name as a bigger city in the Midwest, but its Southern charm and heritage are singularly unique. 

The Local History

The area was once the heart of the Cherokee Nation until the Treaty of New Echota in 1835 removed them from their land. In 1842, Cleveland was founded as the seat of Bradley County, and named after Col. Benjamin Cleveland of North Carolina, a hero of the Revolutionary War. Cleveland’s economy relied mainly on leather tannery and lumber. During the Civil War, Tennessee seceded from the Union, but Cleveland and Bradley County opposed secession. They supported the Union even while under the Confederacy. In 1863, Union troops took the city. 

Things to Do in Cleveland, TN

The Red Clay State Historic Park was the site of the last seat of the Cherokee government before the tribe was forced to emigrate west. The park occupies 263 acres of land and features a 1.7-mile trail and two other shorter paths. Bradley County has a number of Civil War landmarks, including the Grand Army of the Republic Monument at Fort Hill Cemetery. Union troops occupied the cemetery because it overlooks downtown and the railroad. The Craigmiles House maintains the history collection of the Cleveland Public Library containing significant records about the Civil War and Reconstruction years.

Weather and Climate

Although Tennessee is outside the Tornado Alley, it has experienced a fair share of twisters. On April 27, 2011, an EF1 tornado with winds of up to 130 miles per hour touched down near Cleveland, killing three people. Barring any disastrous storms, Cleveland gets 55 inches of rain per year versus the U.S. average of 38 inches, and just two inches of snow annually. 

The Cost of Living

Cleveland (population: 45,504) in southeast Tennessee is more affordable than its namesake in Ohio. Its cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 7.3%, 23.2%, and 21.2% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $760. The Volunteer State has no income tax on salaries and wages, but it charges a 2% tax on income from interest and dividends. Tennessee’s sales tax rate ranges from 7% to 9.75%.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Locals appreciate the combination of country scenery and city amenities in Cleveland, where 53% of residents rent. The parks and walking trails are a plus factor. The only downside to Cleveland’s growth is increased traffic congestion. Hopewell and Charleston get kudos for their excellent schools and proximity to Cleveland. Charleston is known for its Cowpea Festival and easy access to Hiwassee River.