Akron: The Data Profile (2026)

Akron, Ohio, presents a complex statistical profile for the 2026 relocator. With a population of 188,692, it functions as a small-city economy. The primary financial draw is the aggressive cost-of-living advantage; however, this is offset by a significant income deficit. The median household income stands at $50,025, which is -32.9% below the US median of $74,580. This income gap is reflected in the educational attainment levels, where only 26.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic for Akron in the post-remote era is the "High-Value/Low-Cost" Remote Worker. This profile fits individuals earning a national-average salary (approx. $75,000+) who can leverage Akron's housing index of 72.8 to maximize disposable income. It is also viable for dual-income households where at least one partner works for a major regional employer (e.g., Goodyear, Sherwin-Williams) and requires physical proximity to the Northeast Ohio industrial corridor.

Cost of Living Analysis

The aggregate Cost of Living Index for Akron is 89.5, indicating a -10.5% reduction in expenses compared to the US average. The most significant variable is housing, indexed at 72.8, offering a -27.2% savings. Utilities, specifically electricity at 15.99 cents/kWh, remain nearly identical to the national average of 16.0 cents, neutralizing energy savings. Groceries (88.8) and transportation (88.6) provide moderate relief, roughly -11% below average.

Disposable Income Analysis:
For a single remote worker earning the US median of $74,580 (approx. $4,660 monthly take-home), the Akron cost of $2,642 leaves a disposable income of $2,018. This is roughly 43% of net income, significantly healthier than the estimated 25% disposable income available in high-cost coastal cities.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the primary driver of Akron's affordability. The median home price is $175,000, roughly 55% of the US median. The Rent vs. Buy spread is significant. With a 1-bedroom renting at $950 and a 3-bedroom at $1,268, the rental market is compressed. Buying remains the financially superior option for those planning a stay longer than 24 months.

Buying vs. Renting Analysis:
Given the median home price of $175,000, a 20% down payment ($35,000) secures a mortgage at current rates that is often lower than the $1,268 market rate for a 3-bedroom rental. The -27.2% housing index discount makes ownership accessible to buyers earning as little as $55,000 annually, a demographic often priced out of national markets.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Akron's economy is transitioning from traditional manufacturing to polymer, biotech, and remote services. The local unemployment rate is 4.5%, slightly elevated above the national average of 4.0%. In the post-remote era, RTO (Return to Office) mandates are not a significant factor for the average resident; only 12% of Akron's workforce is required to be on-site 5 days a week, compared to 28% in major metros.

Commute Analysis:
The average one-way commute time is 21.4 minutes, significantly lower than the US average of 26.8 minutes. With 88.6 index for transportation costs, gas prices and insurance premiums are roughly -11% lower than average. However, infrastructure quality (roads/bridges) scores a C- rating, which can increase vehicle maintenance costs over time.

Quality of Life Audit

While the financials are compelling, the Quality of Life (QoL) metrics reveal significant public health challenges. The city's Health Score is 74.3/100, categorized as "Fair." This is driven by high rates of chronic disease. Obesity stands at 42.7% (vs. 31.9% US), and Diabetes at 16.5% (vs. 10.9% US). Conversely, environmental quality is a strong point.

Safety Analysis:
Safety is a primary concern. The violent crime rate is 567 per 100k residents, which is 49% higher than the US average of 380. Property crime is also elevated at 2,890 per 100k (US avg: 2,000). Relocators should prioritize neighborhood selection, as crime is not uniformly distributed; suburbs like Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls show crime rates -60% lower than the city center.

Air Quality & Weather:
Akron benefits from AQI readings of 44 and PM2.5 levels of 7.1 µg/m³, both superior to national benchmarks. The current weather reflects the region's reality: a temperature of 39.0°F with mostly cloudy conditions. Winters are gray and average 35-40 inches of snow annually.

Schools:
The Akron Public Schools district has a graduation rate of 87.5%, slightly below the national average of 89.3%. Math and reading proficiency scores hover at 35%, compared to a national average of 42%.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: The median home price of $175,000 offers a rare entry point into the real estate market.
• Disposable Income: A salary of $60,000 in Akron provides a lifestyle equivalent to $90,000+ in average cities.
• Air Quality: PM2.5 levels of 7.1 µg/m³ are excellent for a former industrial hub.

Cons:

• Health Profile: With a 42.7% obesity rate, the local environment does not support healthy lifestyle habits without significant personal effort.
• Safety: A violent crime rate of 567/100k requires vigilance regarding neighborhood choice.
• Income Ceiling: Local wages are -32.9% lower; relying on local employers limits earning potential.

Final Recommendation:
Akron is a STRONG BUY for remote workers earning national-average salaries. The financial arbitrage opportunity is immense. However, it is a CAUTION for local job seekers due to the income deficit. It is a NO-GO for families prioritizing top-tier public health metrics or safety without a budget for private schooling and gated community housing.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Akron?
For a single person, a salary of $60,000 allows for comfortable housing, savings, and discretionary spending. For a family of four, $95,000 is recommended to maintain a middle-class lifestyle including childcare and healthcare.

2. How does the value proposition compare to other Midwest cities?
Akron offers -15% lower housing costs than Cleveland and -22% lower than Columbus. While Columbus has higher job growth, Akron offers superior immediate housing affordability.

3. Are the safety statistics as bad as they look?
The aggregate numbers (567 violent crimes/100k) are skewed by specific high-density neighborhoods. In the suburbs, violent crime drops to roughly 120/100k, which is very safe. Research is essential.

4. Is now (2026) a good time to buy?
With a Housing Index of 72.8 and stable interest rates, the market favors buyers. Inventory is low (2.1 months supply), so waiting may result in higher prices rather than lower rates.