Is Akron Safe, Pros and cons of living in Akron
Akron, Ohio, is a city with a rich industrial past, now evolving into a hub for innovation and research. Nestled in Northeast Ohio, it offers a blend of urban amenities and a more accessible cost of living compared to many other major metropolitan areas. The city’s identity is deeply intertwined with its history as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” a legacy that continues to influence its economic and cultural landscape.
This city provides a unique living experience, balancing historical charm with a forward-looking approach to industry and technology. From its significant contributions to manufacturing to its current focus on polymer science and biomedical research, Akron presents a dynamic environment for its residents.
Is it Safe to Live in Akron?
Akron faces significant challenges regarding safety, with crime rates notably higher than national averages. The city’s overall crime rate is 78% higher than the national average, and violent crimes are 128% higher than the national average (according to a crime statistics report). This means residents have a 1 in 27 chance of becoming a victim of crime in Akron.
While some neighborhoods in Akron are considered safe, with A or B ratings on crime maps, others experience higher crime levels (as indicated by a crime map analysis). For instance, Merriman Hills and Coventry Crossing are noted as exceptionally safe neighborhoods, while areas like Sherbondy Hill and Downtown Akron show higher crime rates. Careful consideration of neighborhood-specific safety data is advised for those considering a move to Akron.
Housing Costs and Availability
Akron’s housing market is characterized by its affordability, with home prices significantly lower than the national average. The median home price in Akron is approximately $152,000, which is 65% lower than the national average (as reported by Redfin). This affordability extends to rentals, with the average rent for an apartment being around $958 per month, which is 42% lower than the national average.
Despite the affordability, the housing market in Akron is competitive, with a noticeable shortage in the supply of homes for sale. This low inventory, combined with rising prices, can present challenges for potential buyers. Homes in Akron are selling for a median price that has increased by 21.4% compared to the previous year, and they tend to sell relatively quickly, with an average of 42 days on the market.
The Job Market and Major Employers
Akron’s economy is diverse, with major employers spanning healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Key employers include Amazon.com Services LLC, Summa Health System, and Akron Children’s Hospital, reflecting the significant role of healthcare in the local job market (according to employment data). The University of Akron also stands as a major employer, alongside Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, highlighting the city’s industrial legacy and its ongoing presence.
The city has a strong focus on advanced manufacturing, particularly in polymers and medical devices, building on its historical strengths. This economic diversification provides a range of employment opportunities across various industries. The average salary in Akron is approximately $64,928 per year, with an hourly rate of about $31 (as per salary data). However, the unemployment rate in Akron was recently reported at 4.90%, which is lower than the long-term average but has seen a slight increase from the previous month.
Cost of Living
Akron offers a cost of living that is substantially lower than both the national and state averages, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. The overall cost of living in Akron is approximately 15.2% lower than the national average (according to cost of living data). Housing expenses are particularly low, being around 40.7% less expensive than the national average.
While housing and utilities are more affordable, some everyday expenses, such as groceries, are slightly higher than the national average. Transportation costs are also marginally higher. To live comfortably as a single adult with no dependents in Akron, a salary of around $65,000 before taxes is recommended, considering estimated annual costs for housing, groceries, and other goods and services.
Climate and Weather
Akron experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures in July reaching around 84°F (as reported by weather data). Winters are cold, with January being the coldest month, featuring an average mean temperature of 27.9°F. Snowfall is common during the winter, averaging about 47.2 inches per season.
The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 41.57 inches, spread across approximately 160 days. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, with spring often bringing more rainfall and autumn characterized by clearer, cooler days. The average annual mean temperature in Akron is 51.7°F.
Education and School Ratings
Akron’s public school system, the Akron City School District, receives an overall rating of C+ (according to Niche reviews). While the district offers a variety of programs, including AP and college-level classes, some reviews highlight concerns regarding disciplinary issues and parental involvement. The student-teacher ratio in Akron STEM High School, a public magnet school, is 14 to 1, and it receives a B+ rating.
Several schools within the district are rated well, such as Judith A. Resnik Community Learning Center with a 5 out of 5 rating. However, the overall performance and safety of schools can vary, with some reviews indicating concerns about student behavior and the need for increased security measures. For those seeking higher education, the University of Akron is a prominent institution within the city.
Demographics
Akron is a city with a diverse population, with White residents making up approximately 54.27% of the population, followed by Black or African American residents at 29.39% (according to census data). Asian residents constitute about 4.87%, with smaller percentages for other racial groups. The median age in Akron is 36.9 years, with a slightly higher median age for females (38 years) compared to males (35.6 years).
The city’s population is approximately 189,423 as of a recent projection, showing a slight annual decline. The median household income in Akron is around $48,076, with a poverty rate of 23.34%. The ratio of males to females is approximately 92.4 males for every 100 females.