Elementary School Teacher in Akron, OH

The Salary Picture: Where Akron Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Akron isn't a place where you'll get rich teaching elementary school, but it offers a stable, middle-class life if you manage your finances carefully. Let's get straight to the numbers, because that's what matters when you're planning a move.

The median salary for an Elementary School Teacher in Akron is $62,294/year. That breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.95/hour. To put this in perspective, the national average for the profession is $63,670/year, so Akron sits just slightly below the national norm. The Akron metropolitan area has 943 jobs for elementary school teachers, indicating a steady, if not explosive, demand. However, the 10-year job growth projection is a modest 1%, which aligns with national trends for public education. This isn't a field with rapid expansion, but it's not shrinking either.

Here’s how that salary breaks down by experience level. These are estimates based on local district pay scales (like Akron Public Schools and surrounding suburbs) and national trends adjusted for Akron's cost of living.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Akron)	Notes
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	Typically starts with a Bachelor's. Most new teachers in the region begin in this range.
Mid-Career (4-9 years)	$55,000 - $70,000	This is where the median of $62,294 typically falls. A Master's degree can push you toward the higher end.
Senior (10-19 years)	$70,000 - $85,000	Top of the scale for classroom teachers in Akron-area districts. Often requires a Master's+30 credits.
Expert/Leadership (20+ years)	$85,000 - $95,000+	This usually means moving into leadership roles like Instructional Coach, Specialist, or Department Head.

Ohio City Comparison: How does Akron stack up against other major Ohio cities for teacher salaries? Cleveland's metro area often has a slightly higher median (around $65,000) but also a higher cost of living. Columbus and Cincinnati pay similarly to Akron, with medians hovering between $60,000 and $66,000. The key differentiator for Akron is the relatively low cost of living, which can make a $62,294 salary feel more substantial here than in a more expensive metro area.

Insider Tip: The salary schedule is public for most school districts in Ohio. Before accepting a job, look up the "Akron Public Schools Salary Schedule" or the schedule for the specific suburban district you're considering (e.g., Copley-Fairlawn, Hudson, Stow). Your placement on the scale depends on your education credits and years of experience. Negotiation is minimal in public education, but confirming your exact placement is crucial.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's make this real. An annual salary of $62,294 in Akron translates to a monthly gross pay of about $5,191. After federal, state (Ohio has a graduated income tax), and FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes, your take-home pay will be closer to $3,900 - $4,100 per month, depending on your specific withholdings.

The biggest variable in your budget is housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Akron is $816/month. The city's Cost of Living Index is 92.8, meaning it's about 7.2% cheaper than the national average. This is a significant advantage.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single teacher earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Monthly Pay	$4,000	After taxes.
Rent (1BR Average)	$816	Can vary from $650 to $1,100+ depending on neighborhood.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Water)	$150	Akron's older housing stock can be less efficient in winter.
Groceries	$350	For one person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Essential in Akron; public transit is limited.
Gas	$120	Commuting within the metro area.
Health Insurance	$250	Premiums vary by district; this is a common employer contribution.
Student Loan Payment	$200	An estimate; varies greatly.
Retirement (OHSTRS)	$140	Ohio State Teachers Retirement System is mandatory.
Miscellaneous (Food out, clothes, etc.)	$300	A modest discretionary fund.
Total Expenses	$2,726
Remaining / Savings	$1,274	This allows for savings, debt repayment, or a modest lifestyle.

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, but it requires discipline. The median home price in Akron is approximately $130,000 - $150,000. With a $2,000 down payment (using an FHA loan), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) could be around $900 - $1,100. This is manageable on a $62,294 salary, especially if you have a partner with an income. However, you'd need to have saved for the down payment and closing costs, and be prepared for maintenance on older homes common in Akron's neighborhoods.

Where the Jobs Are: Akron's Major Employers

Akron's education job market is anchored by its public school districts and a few large private/charter networks. Here’s a breakdown of the key players:

1. Akron Public Schools (APS): The largest employer, serving over 21,000 students across 42 schools. They have a constant need for teachers, especially in high-demand areas like Special Education, STEM, and ESL (English as a Second Language). Hiring is year-round, but the major push is in spring for the following school year. Their website has a dedicated "Careers" portal.

2. Summit County Educational Service Center (ESC): This county-wide agency supports local school districts with specialized services. They frequently hire intervention specialists, school psychologists, and related service providers. It's a great avenue for teachers looking to move into specialized roles.

3. Suburban Districts (Copley-Fairlawn, Hudson, Stow, Cuyahoga Falls): These districts often have lower turnover than APS and can be more competitive. They generally pay on par with or slightly above Akron's median. Hudson, in particular, has a reputation for strong academics and a more affluent community, which can impact school funding and resources.

4. Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD): While technically in the Cleveland metro, many Akron residents commute to CMSD. It's a massive district with high need and often offers hiring incentives or tuition reimbursement programs. The commute is about 40-50 minutes on I-77.

5. Charter & Private Schools: Networks like Accelerate Schools or Emmanuel Christian Academy are part of the local landscape. Salaries can be lower than public schools ($40,000 - $55,000), but they may offer different educational philosophies or smaller class sizes.

6. University of Akron: While not for K-12 teaching, the University's College of Education is a major hub for professional development and often employs adjunct faculty or clinical supervisors who are experienced teachers.

Hiring Trends: The demand is highest for teachers with certifications in Special Education (K-12), Early Childhood (Pre-K-3), and STEM subjects. Districts are also increasingly looking for teachers with ESL endorsements due to growing immigrant populations, particularly in Akron's North Hill neighborhood.

Getting Licensed in OH

Ohio's licensing process is managed by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODE). It's a structured but lengthy process. Here’s the essential path:

1. Complete a Bachelor's Degree: You need a degree from an accredited university, preferably with a teacher preparation program.
2. Pass Required Exams: You must pass the Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) exams for your specific license area (e.g., Early Childhood Education). The cost is approximately $122 per test. You may also need to pass the Praxis Core academic skills test if your program requires it.
3. Student Teaching: A full-time, semester-long placement is required. This is where you gain hands-on experience.
4. Apply for the License: Submit your application, transcripts, test scores, and a background check through the ODE's online portal. The initial application fee is $175.
5. Background Check: You must undergo a BCI (Bureau of Criminal Investigation) and FBI fingerprint check. This typically costs $60 - $80.

Timeline: If you're starting from scratch, expect a minimum of 4 years (for a Bachelor's) plus the time to pass exams and complete the application. For out-of-state teachers, Ohio has reciprocity agreements, but you'll still need to meet any testing or coursework gaps. The process can take 3-6 months for a licensed teacher moving from another state.

Insider Tip: The ODE website is your best friend, but it's notoriously clunky. Call their licensure office directly with specific questions. Also, consider joining the Ohio Education Association (OEA) for support and resources during the licensing process.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Where you live in Akron drastically affects your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local's guide:

1. Downtown / University of Akron Area: Best for young, urban-minded teachers who want to walk to coffee shops, restaurants, and the arts. Commute to APS schools is easy. Rent for a 1BR is $750 - $1,000. Best for those without a car or who enjoy a vibrant, if sometimes gritty, atmosphere.
2. Fairlawn / Copley: These are classic, family-friendly suburbs just west of Akron. Excellent schools (in the Copley-Fairlawn district), safe, and quiet. Commute to most APS schools is 10-15 minutes. Rent for a 1BR is $900 - $1,200. The gold standard for stability and community.
3. West Akron (Windsor Park / Wallhaven): A mix of historic homes, apartments, and commercial corridors. More affordable than Fairlawn but still safe and convenient. Great for teachers who want a bit more character and an easier commute. Rent: $700 - $950.
4. North Hill: A diverse, culturally rich neighborhood with a strong Eastern European (especially Balkan) immigrant community. It's affordable and has a unique character, but some parts have higher crime rates. Do your research and visit. Rent: $600 - $850. A good option for budget-conscious teachers who want a vibrant, global community.
5. Stow / Munroe Falls: A bit farther northeast, these are quiet, family-oriented suburbs with excellent schools (Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools). The commute to downtown APS can be 20-30 minutes. Rent: $850 - $1,100. Ideal for teachers who prioritize peace and top-rated public schools for their own families.

Insider Tip: Traffic in Akron is relatively mild, but the I-77 and I-76 interchanges can get congested during rush hour. When choosing a neighborhood, test the actual commute to your potential school at 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A classroom teaching career in Akron is stable, but advancement requires strategic planning. Here’s the long game:

• Specialty Premiums: While there's no formal "premium," teachers with hard-to-fill certifications (Special Education, ESL, STEM) have more job security and can often move to new districts more easily. Pursuing an ESL endorsement or a Reading Endorsement is a wise investment.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path out of the classroom (without leaving education) is:
  • Instructional Coach: ($70,000 - $85,000) Works with other teachers on curriculum and pedagogy.
  • Curriculum Specialist: ($75,000 - $90,000) Helps design and implement district-wide curriculum.
  • School Administrator (Principal): This requires a Master's in Educational Leadership and an administrative license. Salary range: $95,000 - $120,000+.
• 10-Year Outlook: With a 1% job growth rate, don't expect a flood of new positions. However, retirements will create openings. The key to growth will be gaining additional credentials (Master's degree, multiple endorsements) and being willing to move between districts or into specialized roles. The shift toward digital learning and data-driven instruction will also create new niche roles.

The Verdict: Is Akron Right for You?

Akron offers a realistic, grounded path for an elementary school teacher. It's not a place for high-flying ambitions, but it's an excellent place for building a stable career and life.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your $62,294 salary stretches far.	Modest Salary Growth: Pay scales are rigid; you won't see big jumps without moving into leadership.
Manageable Commutes: Traffic is light compared to larger metros.	1% Job Growth: Limited new opportunities; competition for the best positions is real.
Diverse Districts: From challenging urban schools to high-performing suburbs.	Weather: Winters are long, gray, and snowy.
Strong Sense of Community: Neighborhoods are tight-knit.	Economic Base: Akron's economy is stable but not booming; this reflects on school funding.
Proximity to Nature & Cities: Close to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and a short drive to Cleveland.	Older Housing Stock: Can mean higher utility bills and maintenance.

Final Recommendation: Akron is an excellent choice for a teacher who values affordability, community, and a manageable pace of life. It's ideal for those starting their careers or looking for a stable, long-term home base. If you're seeking rapid career advancement, a vibrant nightlife, or a cutting-edge tech scene, you may find Akron limiting. For the right person, it's a city where you can teach by day and afford a life outside the classroom.

FAQs

1. Are teacher salaries in Akron enough to live comfortably?
Yes, if you budget wisely. The median of $62,294 is well above Akron's living wage for a single adult. The key is the low cost of living, especially housing ($816/month avg rent). You won't be lavishly wealthy, but you can live independently, save for retirement, and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

2. What is the job market like for new teachers?
It's competitive but not impossible. New teachers should be flexible and willing to work in high-need schools or subjects (Special Ed, ESL). Applying to multiple districts (public, charter, suburban) increases your chances. The hiring season peaks from March to June for the following school year.

3. Is Akron a safe city?
Like any mid-sized city, Akron has areas with higher crime and many safe, family-friendly neighborhoods. Your experience will largely depend on where you choose to live. Suburbs like Fairlawn, Hudson, and Stow are consistently rated as very safe. Within the city, neighborhoods like West Akron and parts of Downtown are generally safe, especially during the day.

4. Do I need a car in Akron?
Yes, absolutely. Public transportation (METRO RTA) exists but is limited in its routes and frequency. Most teachers live in one neighborhood and work in another, making a car a necessity for commuting. The city is spread out, and winters make walking or biking to work impractical for most.

5. How does the Ohio State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) work?
Ohio STRS is a mandatory pension system for public school teachers. You contribute 14% of your salary (pre-tax), and the district contributes a percentage as well. It's a defined-benefit plan, meaning you're guaranteed a monthly payment upon retirement based on your years of service and final average salary. It's a valuable benefit, though it's important to also contribute to supplemental savings (like a 403(b)) for greater financial security.