Akron vs Philadelphia

Category / Metric	Akron	Philadelphia
Financial Overview
Median Income	$50,025	$60,302
Unemployment Rate	4.5%	4.7%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$130,000	$270,375
Price per SqFt	$111	$204
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$816	$1,451
Housing Cost Index	77.5	117.8
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	93.3	100.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$2.69	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	567.0	726.5
Bachelor's Degree+	26.3%	35.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	30	40

Philadelphia vs. Akron: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Relocation Showdown

Choosing a new home is like picking a new life. It’s not just about square footage; it’s about the rhythm of your days, the weight of your paycheck, and the safety of your streets. Today, we're pitting two cities against each other that couldn't be more different: the colossal, historic powerhouse of Philadelphia and the scrappy, affordable underdog of Akron.

This isn't just a data dump. This is a real talk, no-holds-barred guide to help you decide where to plant your roots. Grab your coffee; we’re diving in.

The Vibe Check: Big City Grit vs. Midwestern Heart

Philadelphia is a beast of a city. With a population of 1.55 million, it’s the sixth-largest city in the U.S. It’s where the Declaration of Independence was signed, where Rocky Balboa ran up those steps, and where the cheesesteak is a religion. The vibe is East Coast intensity: fast-paced, historically dense, and relentlessly authentic. It’s a city of neighborhoods—each with its own distinct personality, from the cobblestone streets of Old City to the trendy bars of Fishtown. If you crave anonymity, world-class museums, top-tier sports, and a 24/7 energy, Philly delivers.

Akron, on the other hand, is a quintessential Midwestern comeback story. With a population of 188,692, it’s a fraction of Philly’s size. Once the "Rubber Capital of the World," it’s reinvented itself as a hub for polymer science, biomedical research, and—surprisingly—craft brewing. The vibe is laid-back, community-focused, and unpretentious. Life moves at a slower, more manageable pace. You’re not battling crowds; you’re likely to know your barista by name. It’s a city for those who want a genuine sense of place without the overwhelming chaos of a major metro.

Who is each city for?

• Philadelphia is for the ambitious, the history buffs, the foodies, and anyone who thrives on the energy of a major urban center. It’s for those who want endless options and don’t mind paying the price (in both dollars and patience).
• Akron is for the practical, the family-oriented, and those seeking a simpler, more affordable lifestyle. It’s for people who value community, shorter commutes, and the peace of mind that comes with a lower cost of living.

The Dollar Power: Where Your Paycheck Stretches Furthest

Let’s talk numbers. This is where the gap between these two cities becomes a chasm.

The Cost of Living Table

Category	Philadelphia	Akron	The Verdict
Median Home Price	$270,375	$130,000	Akron by a landslide.
1BR Rent	$1,451	$816	Akron. Over $630 cheaper per month.
Housing Index	117.8	77.5	Akron. A 36% lower index.
Median Income	$60,302	$50,025	Philadelphia. Higher earning potential.
Violent Crime (per 100k)	726.5	567.0	Akron. Statistically safer, but context matters (see below).
Avg. Temp	52.0°F	43.0°F	Philly. Milder winters, hotter summers.

Salary Wars & Purchasing Power

Here’s the critical math. If you earn $100,000 in Philadelphia, your purchasing power is decent, but you’ll feel the squeeze. The cost of living in Philly is about 15% higher than the national average. Your $100k salary there feels like roughly $85,000 in national spending power.

Now, take that same $100,000 to Akron. Akron’s cost of living is about 15% lower than the national average. Suddenly, your $100k salary feels like $115,000 in national spending power. That’s a $30,000 swing in perceived wealth. In Akron, you can save for a down payment in a fraction of the time, afford a larger home, and likely have more disposable income for travel and hobbies.

The Tax Twist: Both cities are in Pennsylvania and Ohio, which have state income taxes. PA has a flat 3.07% income tax, while Ohio has a progressive system ranging from 0% to 3.99%. Neither is a tax haven like Texas or Florida, but they are manageable. The real savings in Akron come from the dramatically lower housing and daily expenses.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent Analysis

Philadelphia: The Competitive Buyer’s Market
The Philly housing market is hot. With a median home price of $270,375, you’re still getting relative value compared to cities like Boston or NYC, but competition is fierce. Inventory moves quickly, especially in desirable neighborhoods. Renting is a common and often necessary choice for young professionals, with $1,451/month for a one-bedroom being the norm. The market is competitive, but the diversity of housing stock—from row homes to modern condos—offers options if you have the budget.

Akron: The Starter-Home Haven
Akron is a buyer’s market in the best way possible. A median home price of $130,000 is shockingly low for 2024. This isn’t just for fixer-uppers; you can find move-in-ready homes in safe, family-friendly suburbs. The barrier to entry for homeownership is incredibly low. Renting is also a breeze, with $816/month being a realistic figure for a decent one-bedroom. For anyone priced out of major metros, Akron’s housing market is a dream come true.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

Philadelphia: Traffic is serious. The Schuylkill and Vine Street Expressways are legendary for congestion. Public transit (SEPTA) is extensive but can be slow and unreliable. Commute times can easily hit 45-60 minutes for a 15-mile journey during rush hour.
Akron: Traffic is minimal. You can cross the city in 20-25 minutes most of the day. The I-77/I-76 interchange can get busy, but it’s nothing like Philly. Commutes are short and predictable, freeing up hours of your week.

Weather

Philadelphia: You get four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+), springs and falls are beautiful, and winters bring snow and ice (average 52.0°F). The humidity can be a dealbreaker for some.
Akron: Winters are colder and snowier on average than Philly. The average temperature is 43.0°F, and lake-effect snow from Lake Erie can bury the region. Summers are warm but generally less humid. If you hate snow, Akron is a tougher sell.

Crime & Safety: A Nuanced Look

The data shows Akron (567.0/100k) is statistically safer than Philadelphia (726.5/100k). However, the "where" is everything. Both cities have safe, family-oriented neighborhoods and areas you should avoid after dark. Philly’s crime is more concentrated in specific neighborhoods, while Akron’s challenges are spread differently. The key is to research specific areas, not just the city-wide numbers. In both cities, you can live a safe, comfortable life by choosing your neighborhood wisely.

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The Final Verdict

After crunching the numbers and feeling the vibes, here’s the head-to-head winner for different life stages.

🏆 Winner for Families: Akron

Why: The math is undeniable. You can buy a spacious home in a good school district for under $200,000. The lower cost of living means less financial stress and more money for family activities. The safer crime statistics (with proper neighborhood research) and shorter commutes mean more time with your kids. It’s a stable, affordable foundation for raising a family.

🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Philadelphia

Why: While Akron is affordable, it lacks the career opportunities, social scene, and cultural energy that a young professional often craves. Philly’s higher median income ($60,302 vs. $50,025), world-class dining, nightlife, and networking opportunities are worth the higher cost for many in their 20s and 30s. The city’s density fuels a vibrant, connected social life that Akron can’t match.

🏆 Winner for Retirees: Akron

Why: On a fixed income, Akron’s low cost of living is a game-changer. Property taxes are lower, home prices are a fraction of Philly’s, and daily expenses are manageable. The slower pace, strong sense of community, and access to nature (Cuyahoga Valley National Park) are perfect for a relaxing retirement. Philly’s intensity can be exhausting; Akron’s comfort is a welcome embrace.

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At-a-Glance: Pros & Cons

Philadelphia

Pros:

• World-Class Culture: Museums, theater, history, and food that rival any global city.
• Career Opportunities: Major industries in healthcare, finance, education, and tech.
• Walkability & Transit: Many neighborhoods are highly walkable, with decent public transit.
• Sports Passion: Unmatched fan energy for the Eagles, Phillies, 76ers, and Flyers.

Cons:

• High Cost of Living: Especially housing and city wage taxes.
• Traffic & Congestion: A daily reality for most commuters.
• Higher Crime Rates: Requires careful neighborhood selection.
• Intense Weather: Humid summers and cold winters.

Akron

Pros:

• Extreme Affordability: $130k median home price is a national standout.
• Short Commutes: More time for life, less for driving.
• Strong Community Feel: A true sense of belonging and local pride.
• Outdoor Access: Proximity to parks, trails, and Cuyahoga Valley.

Cons:

• Limited Career Options: Fewer major corporate HQs and less diverse job market.
• Cultural Scene: Far fewer major concerts, museums, and nightlife options.
• Harsher Winters: More snow and cold than Philly.
• Perception: Still fighting its "Rust Belt" image, though changing fast.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t about which city is “better”—it’s about which city is better for you.

• Choose Philadelphia if you’re chasing career growth, crave urban energy, and value cultural depth over cost savings. It’s a city that will challenge and reward you.
• Choose Akron if you prioritize financial freedom, a slower pace, and homeownership. It’s a city that will welcome you with open arms and a lighter wallet.

Your decision boils down to one question: Do you want to live where the action is, or where your money makes you feel rich? Both paths are valid, but only one will feel like home.