Remote working is still on the rise, and some people who have the freedom to work from anywhere are choosing Cleveland as their base. A LinkedIn survey found that 87 people arrived in the city for every 100 people who left around 2020 – a good ratio by the city advocates’ standards.
Amid this inward migration trend, mobile workers have nothing to worry about. Cleveland has no shortage of cafés, coffee shops and coworking spaces that cater to everyone’s flexible work setups. But if you want to call dibs on the best ones, these are some of our top picks:
LOOP
Music is embedded in the whole experience in this coffee shop slash art and record store. The vinyl collection is on the second floor if you want to check out what’s new, but you’re welcome to stay in just for the roasted coffee in-house. You can also take a break from your tasks and see the work of local artists on display. The exhibit changes monthly, which means you won’t be looking at the same lineup over and over.
The Loop is located in the historic yet hip neighborhood of Tremont.
Rising Star Coffee Roasters
Patrons flock to any of this coffee shop’s seven locations to get their caffeine fix. A blend of classic and signature offerings are on the menu, including the crowd favorite Cardamom Bomb and the holiday special pumpkin spice latte.
Do some branch-hopping to find the perfect venue for burning through your to-dos. But for starters, the flagship store built in a former firehouse in Ohio City is a must-visit. It features easy access to power outlets, laptop-friendly spots and outdoor seating for those who’d like to grab a cup and a bagel for a quick catch-up.
Phoenix Coffee
Phoenix Coffee has been serving specialty coffee to Cleveland residents and guests since the 90s. It’s a premier local chain that has helped define the coffee culture in the area. In 2016, it also gained national recognition when it was listed among the best coffee shops in America by Cosmopolitan magazine. Recently, it has transformed into an employee-owned cooperative to empower its own workers during the pandemic.
Aside from its traditional and seasonal brews, you can enjoy this roastery’s laid-back vibe and various seating options. What’s not to love? So hide out here for some quiet time or invite people for an out-of-the-office meeting.
Six Shooter Coffee
Fans of this Cleveland coffeehouse swear by its nitro cold brew coffee. But its selection of seasonal flavors also delights, from ginger pear cappuccino to salted tahini caramel latte. On top of skillfully crafted drinks, its interiors are decorated to align with the needs of customers on the go and those who plan to camp out.
If you need another reason to make Six Shooter Coffee your nook and “supporting local” is your thing, you’ll probably be happy to hear that the company collaborates with other small businesses in the community.
LaunchHouse
Whether it’s for personal or team use, this coworking space has a place for you. Try the $199 monthly flex membership if you aren’t ready to commit to a private office but want the perks, which include free parking, your own business mailbox and conference room booking. The $500 monthly rate is designed more for startups and growing businesses in need of customizable, enclosed offices.
LaunchHouse has a friendly, collaborative atmosphere that’s conducive for its target market. It’s also a great go-to spot for various kinds of events and workshops.
Limelight
Limelight shows it takes coworking seriously by taking the concept of the modern house and applying it to a big shared office. For one, it knows how to keep things cozy. The common area is filled with comfortable sofas and chairs, potted plants and drop lights. Meanwhile, mini-offices are lined up nicely in a more private section of the shared space.
Staying true to its high-design origin, Limelight dishes out a tiered pricing model to accommodate the different needs of its community. Open-seating passes depend on how many times a month you want to show up: Rebels pay $20/day, Vagabonds get 4-day access for $95, Drifters can use up to 8 days at $175 and Settlers shell out $250 for 24/7 use of the facilities. Agencies and firms that require a private room get various pricing options. Such clients are aptly called Residents.
What Are You Waiting For?
Whether it’s a group of startup founders, freelance developers or digital marketing experts in Cleveland, these shared spaces welcome all kinds of remote workers. Flexible workspaces are here to stay, empowering people to be productive through coffee, connections and community. So find one or two that you like and get settled in your new home office away from home.
