Why is Cleveland a Cash Flow Market?

[Pete Abilla]

I'm looking very seriously at buying a few rentals in Cleveland. But, I have a concern.

Everybody I've spoken to touts that Cleveland is a cash flow market. But the data shows that people are leaving Cleveland (and the snow belt for that matter) and moving to the sun belt areas. For example, there was negative population growth compared to the last census (384K vs 396K). 

So, what would you say to convince me to buy rental properties in Cleveland? Or, should I avoid Cleveland since population is shrinking and look elsewhere? 

Would love some advice here.