Is Stow Safe, Pros and cons of living in Stow

Stow, Ohio, offers a blend of suburban comfort and accessibility, nestled within the broader Akron metropolitan area. This community provides a balanced lifestyle, appealing to families and professionals alike with its well-maintained neighborhoods and proximity to natural spaces. Stow is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, bolstered by a strong school district and a growing selection of local amenities.

The city’s strategic location between Akron and Cleveland, with convenient access to major interstates, enhances its appeal for commuters and businesses. This accessibility, combined with a variety of housing options, makes Stow a desirable place to live for those seeking a stable and connected community.

Is it Safe to Live in Stow?

Stow presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are generally near the national average, though higher than many other communities in Ohio when considering similar population sizes. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is approximately 1 in 54 (according to NeighborhoodScout). While the violent crime rate is about average for communities across America, the property crime rate is above average when compared to national statistics.

Further analysis indicates that Stow’s total crime rate has seen an increase year-over-year, with violent crime rising by 12.4% and property crime by 10.9% (as reported by CrimeGrade.org for 2024). Despite these trends, certain neighborhoods within Stow are considered safer than others, with residents often viewing the eastern parts of the city as the most secure (according to CrimeGrade.org). The city has an overall safety score of 66 out of 100, which is near the national average (as reported by CrimeGrade.org).

Housing Costs and Market Trends

The housing market in Stow currently presents a competitive environment, with median home prices experiencing fluctuations. As of March 2026, home prices were down 5.8% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $282,000 (according to Redfin). Homes in Stow typically sell quickly, averaging around 23 days on the market.

Rental prices in Stow are generally considered more affordable than the national average. The average rent for all property types is approximately $1,350 per month (as of April 2026, according to Zillow). This figure includes a range of options, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around $925 and two-bedroom apartments closer to $1,300 per month.

Home Prices

The median sale price of a home in Stow was approximately $282,000 in March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). This median price reflects a decrease of 5.8% from the previous year. The sale-to-list price ratio is around 100.2%, indicating that homes are selling very close to their asking price. Homes are also selling above list price 41.4% of the time, suggesting a strong seller’s market in some segments.

Rental Market

For renters, Stow offers a variety of options with an average monthly rent of $1,350 for all bedroom counts and property types (according to Zillow, as of April 2026). The rental market has seen a slight month-over-month increase of $50, but a year-over-year decrease of $10. The price range for rentals spans from $867 to $4,850, providing a spectrum of choices for different budgets.

Job Market and Economy

Stow’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, contributing to its overall job market. The average annual salary in Stow is approximately $39,953, which translates to about $19.21 per hour (according to ZipRecruiter, as of April 2026). This figure varies significantly based on occupation and experience, with some specialized roles commanding much higher salaries.

The unemployment rate in Stow is closely tied to broader economic trends. As of January 2026, the unemployment figure was 735.00, which is an increase from the previous month but a decrease from the year prior (as reported by YCharts, referencing the Bureau of Labor Statistics). This indicates a dynamic employment landscape within the city.

Major Employers

Several key companies form the backbone of Stow’s employment opportunities. Major employers in the area include Summa Health, Mactac North America, and Giant Eagle (as noted by Zippia). Manufacturing also plays a significant role, with companies like Amcor, Newell Brands, and Cooper Tire & Rubber Company having a presence in Stow (according to Indeed). These diverse industries provide a range of job opportunities for residents.

Average Salary and Wages

The average annual salary in Stow is reported to be $39,953, with most salaries falling between $29,736 and $48,500 (according to ZipRecruiter). However, some specialized positions, such as those in engineering, can command significantly higher salaries, potentially ranging from $106,600 to $158,200 (as per ZipRecruiter). This highlights the potential for higher earnings within specific sectors.

Climate and Weather

Stow experiences a climate typical of northeastern Ohio, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, with average high temperatures in July reaching around 84°F, while winters are cold, with average high temperatures in January around 35°F (based on data from Akron Fulton International Airport, per Time and Date). The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year.

Rainfall averages vary by month, with higher amounts typically occurring in the summer months. For example, June and July tend to see around 3.95 and 3.56 inches of rain, respectively (as reported by Time and Date, based on 1992–2021 data). Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, making these seasons pleasant for outdoor activities.

Temperatures

The annual temperature range in Stow spans from cold winters to warm summers. Average high temperatures in January hover around 35°F, offering a clear indication of winter conditions (as per Time and Date). Conversely, July highs average approximately 84°F, providing a typical summer experience.

Rainfall

Stow receives an average of about 30-40 inches of precipitation annually, distributed across the year. The wettest months are typically June and July, with average rainfall around 3.6 to 4.0 inches (as reported by Time and Date). Winter months generally see less precipitation, often in the form of snow.

Education and Schools

Stow is served by the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District, which generally receives positive ratings. The district is considered above average, with a number of its schools earning strong grades from Niche. This indicates a commitment to providing quality education for its students.

The district includes various levels of schools, from elementary to high school, each contributing to the overall educational landscape. Public schools in Stow are rated well, with specific institutions like Woodland Elementary School and Fishcreek Elementary School receiving high marks (according to Niche).

School Ratings

Stow-Munroe Falls High School holds a B overall grade from Niche, reflecting its standing among other high schools in Ohio. The school boasts a student-teacher ratio of 21 to 1, and state test scores show that 52% of students are proficient in math and 72% in reading (as reported by Niche). Several elementary schools within the district, such as Fishcreek Elementary School, have received perfect 5 out of 5 ratings from Niche reviewers.

Demographics

Stow is a city with a population of approximately 34,240 residents as of 2024, making it one of the more populated cities in Ohio (according to US Census Bureau data). The demographic makeup is predominantly White, accounting for about 85.3% of the population. Other racial groups include Two or More Races (4.7%), Black (4.3%), and Asian (4.3%) (as per US Census Bureau data). The median age in Stow is 41.5 years, suggesting a community with a mix of established residents and younger families.

Cost of Living

The overall cost of living in Stow, Ohio, is slightly lower than the national average. Housing expenses are a notable factor, being about 12% higher than the national average (according to PayScale). However, other costs, such as utilities, are significantly lower, at 19% below the national average.

When compared to other cities, Stow’s cost of living presents a more affordable option. For instance, it is considerably less expensive than major coastal cities like San Francisco or New York. The median household income in Stow was $93,727 in 2024 (as per US Census Bureau data), which helps to balance the cost of living for its residents.

Housing Costs

Housing expenses in Stow are approximately 12% higher than the national average (as reported by PayScale). The median home price in March 2026 was around $282,000 (according to Redfin), while the median rent for an apartment is about $1,350 per month (as of April 2026, according to Zillow). These figures indicate that while housing is a significant expense, it remains within reach for many.

Everyday Expenses

Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Stow are generally in line with or lower than national averages. Grocery prices are about 5% higher than the national average (according to PayScale). However, healthcare costs are notably lower, running 14% below the national average. Utility prices are also significantly lower, at 19% less than the national average, contributing to a more affordable overall cost of living.

Pros and Cons of Living in Stow

Stow offers a suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of community and good public schools, making it an attractive option for families. Its location provides convenient access to larger metropolitan areas, and residents often appreciate the numerous parks and recreational opportunities available within the city. The cost of living, particularly for utilities and healthcare, is also favorable compared to national averages.

However, Stow is not without its drawbacks. The crime rate, particularly for property crimes, is higher than the national average, which may be a concern for some residents. Additionally, while the city has many amenities, it lacks a distinct downtown area, with most commercial activity concentrated in shopping centers.

Pros

Residents often cite the quality of the public school system as a major advantage of living in Stow (as noted by Niche). The city’s numerous parks and green spaces offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Furthermore, its strategic location provides easy access to the cultural and economic hubs of Akron and Cleveland.

Cons

The higher-than-average property crime rate is a significant consideration for those evaluating safety in Stow (according to NeighborhoodScout). The absence of a traditional downtown area means that retail and dining options are spread across various shopping centers, which may not appeal to everyone seeking a walkable urban core.