Parma, Ohio

Parma, Ohio: A City with Rich Heritage and Exciting Opportunities Parma, Ohio is a city with a rich heritage that has evolved over the years. Located about 10 miles southwest of Cleveland, Parma is the seventh-largest city in Ohio, and home to around 80,000 residents, according to the latest U.S. Census report. As a former agricultural community that was initially settled in the late 1700s, Parma has come a long way. The city has undergone significant changes since its inception, making it an ideal place to live, work and visit today. The Early Years Parma is named after the town of Parma in Italy, which is fitting for a city that is known for its strong ethnic ties. The first settlers were mostly German and Irish immigrants, with more than 50 percent of the population listed as German in the early 1900s. During the 1800s, Parma was primarily a farming community known for its fertile soil and productive farmland. It was not until the early 1900s that Parma began to grow as a community, due in part to the opening of the Ohio Turnpike in 1955 and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport's expansion. This led to the influx of new residents and businesses, and the city has since emerged as a hub of commerce and industry. Parma Today Today, Parma is a diverse and bustling city with lots of opportunities for residents and visitors. The city boasts a thriving economy and a strong sense of community spirit. With access to major highways, excellent schools, affordable housing, and proximity to Cleveland and Akron, it is an attractive place to call home and raise a family. Parma also offers plenty of recreational activities for all ages, including sports leagues, recreational parks, and an outdoor swimming pool. The city is home to numerous shopping centers, including Parmatown Mall, which offers over 50 stores, restaurants, and services. Health care services and facilities are also readily available, with two major hospitals in the area: Parma Community General Hospital and University Hospitals Parma Medical Center. Parma is known for its excellent food scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and delis offering everything from traditional Italian cuisine to authentic BBQ. The city is also home to The Shoppes at Parma, a new mixed-use development that features a public market, local shops, and restaurants. Parma’s strong cultural heritage is on full display, with numerous events and festivals held throughout the year. The city's Italian-American Heritage Festival is a notable annual event, featuring live entertainment, food, and vendors celebrating Parma's rich Italian culture. The Future of Parma Parma is a city that has always embraced change and innovation, and this is evident in its plans for the future. With the recent completion of The Shoppes at Parma and other commercial and residential developments in the works, the city is poised for growth and revitalization. Parma also continues to be a leader in sustainability, with its active recycling program and green initiatives. The city is working to develop programs that promote energy conservation, reduce waste, and encourage green transportation. Parma is a vibrant and growing city with a bright future ahead. It offers an attractive mix of suburban amenities with access to urban resources and culture, making it an ideal place to call home. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there is something for everyone in Parma, Ohio.