Greater Akron proves there’s no place like home. The area is continually recognized for affordable housing and unique neighborhoods.
While home values are rising in the Greater Akron area, it’s still one of the best places in the nation to snag a deal on record-low interest rates and affordable housing. According to zillow.com, home prices rose almost 6 percent in 2016, and are expected to rise 2.5 percent in 2017. Yet the National Association of Realtors lists the Akron area in their top ten national listing of “Cheapest Homes.”
The region is not only family friendly; it’s also affordable and accessible. Here are some details on our larger communities. Statistics come from the U.S. Census Bureau’s most recent census.
SUMMIT COUNTY
Akron
Population – 199,110; residents under 18 years, 22.9 percent; median household income, $34,359; median home value, $91,800.
Akron Neighborhoods
The driving time to downtown Akron from the following areas is less than 15 minutes: Northwest – The neighborhood, which includes Fairlawn Heights, is filled with many homes that were originally built for the founders and executives of the city’s rubber companies. Home prices cover a wide range, from about $70,000 to more than $700,000.
The driving time to downtown Akron from the following areas is less than 15 minutes: Northwest – The neighborhood, which includes Fairlawn Heights, is filled with many homes that were originally built for the founders and executives of the city’s rubber companies. Home prices cover a wide range, from about $70,000 to more than $700,000.
Near West – This is one of Akron’s most culturally diverse neighborhoods. It is dotted with homes originally built to house rubber workers and soldiers returning from World War II.
Highland Square – Between the northwest and near west sections of town, Highland Square has long been a haven for artists, young professionals and older adults who like a walkable neighborhood.
North Hill – Italian immigrants first settled in this section of Akron. It is now a community of many ethnic backgrounds, but residents still honor its heritage with Italian markets, festivals and restaurants. East Akron – The east side of town is a mix of mid-priced homes built in the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s and contemporary developments geared to the lifestyles of today’s families. Home prices range from $45,000 to $300,000.
South Akron – The working-class community known as Kenmore in South Akron was once an independent city, and its residents are still fiercely proud to be Kenmorites. Homes range from $40,000 to $160,000.
Ellet – Population, 17,269; median household income, $40,755; median home value, $121,619. Once its own city, Ellet was annexed by Akron but still maintains its own sense of identity. Ellet High School boasts both academic and athletic excellence. The community is home to the Akron Fulton Municipal Airport, the Rubber Bowl football stadium and Derby Downs.
Goodyear Heights and Firestone Park – These two communities were built in the early 1900s to provide housing for employees near the respective Goodyear and Firestone factories. Homes range from $65,000 to $150,000.
Downtown – Loft apartments and condominiums are more popular downtown. Several new developments are luring suburbanites back to city living. The housing is in all price ranges, depending on the development.
Other Summit County Communities
The driving time to downtown Akron from the following areas averages 20 to 30 minutes:
The driving time to downtown Akron from the following areas averages 20 to 30 minutes:
Barberton
Population – 26,550; residents under 18 years – 23.5 percent; median household income – $35,411; median home value – $96,600. Situated around Lake Anna, a natural glacial lake, blue collar Barberton is a mix of older homes on quiet streets with a burgeoning art district in their downtown.
Population – 26,550; residents under 18 years – 23.5 percent; median household income – $35,411; median home value – $96,600. Situated around Lake Anna, a natural glacial lake, blue collar Barberton is a mix of older homes on quiet streets with a burgeoning art district in their downtown.
Bath Township
Population – 9,662; residents under 18 years – 25.7 percent; median household income – $98,485; median home value – $327,100 (unless you’re LeBron James, who built a $9.2 million home here). This affluent community just outside of Akron has a rural feeling; its homes are built on lots of an acre or more.
Population – 9,662; residents under 18 years – 25.7 percent; median household income – $98,485; median home value – $327,100 (unless you’re LeBron James, who built a $9.2 million home here). This affluent community just outside of Akron has a rural feeling; its homes are built on lots of an acre or more.
Copley
Population – 16,683; residents under 18 years – 26.9 percent; median household income – $70,738; median home value – $182,300. Adjacent to Akron, it is a mix of quiet residential neighborhoods, old-time farms and boutique businesses.
Population – 16,683; residents under 18 years – 26.9 percent; median household income – $70,738; median home value – $182,300. Adjacent to Akron, it is a mix of quiet residential neighborhoods, old-time farms and boutique businesses.
Coventry Township
Population–10,945; residents under 18 years – 18 percent; median household income – $47,136; median home value – $128,500. Coventry Township is surrounded by the lakes that make up Portage Lakes State Park, an enormous draw for recreation and entertainment. Many people live around the lakes all year long; others keep summer homes there.
Population–10,945; residents under 18 years – 18 percent; median household income – $47,136; median home value – $128,500. Coventry Township is surrounded by the lakes that make up Portage Lakes State Park, an enormous draw for recreation and entertainment. Many people live around the lakes all year long; others keep summer homes there.
Cuyahoga Falls
Population – approx. 50,000; residents under 18 years – 20.9 percent; median household income – $48,606; median home value – $125,600. The second largest city in Summit County, Cuyahoga Falls offers superior amenities such as low utility rates, a first-class natatorium fitness facility and an award-winning downtown riverfront district. Numerous housing options are available from upscale condos, luxury apartments and quaint bungalows to large homes near the National Park.
Population – approx. 50,000; residents under 18 years – 20.9 percent; median household income – $48,606; median home value – $125,600. The second largest city in Summit County, Cuyahoga Falls offers superior amenities such as low utility rates, a first-class natatorium fitness facility and an award-winning downtown riverfront district. Numerous housing options are available from upscale condos, luxury apartments and quaint bungalows to large homes near the National Park.
Fairlawn
Population – 7,437; residents under 18 years – 19.4 percent; median household income – $56,087; median home value – $185,700. Fairlawn offers homes in many price ranges, from two-bedroom bungalows to spacious, traditional Colonials close to highways and shopping.
Population – 7,437; residents under 18 years – 19.4 percent; median household income – $56,087; median home value – $185,700. Fairlawn offers homes in many price ranges, from two-bedroom bungalows to spacious, traditional Colonials close to highways and shopping.
Green
Population – 25,699; residents under 18 years – 24.1 percent; median household income – $63,402; median home value – $176,300. Green is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Affluent and rural in feel, Green is situated halfway between Akron and Canton.
Population – 25,699; residents under 18 years – 24.1 percent; median household income – $63,402; median home value – $176,300. Green is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Affluent and rural in feel, Green is situated halfway between Akron and Canton.
Hudson
Population – 22,262; residents under 18 years – 30.1 percent; median household income – $115,144; median home value – $292,800. Historic buildings line downtown’s North Main Street. Hudson is home to Seton Catholic School, Hudson Montessori and Western Reserve Academy. One of the original settlements of the Connecticut Western Reserve, Hudson has a distinct East Coast flavor.
Population – 22,262; residents under 18 years – 30.1 percent; median household income – $115,144; median home value – $292,800. Historic buildings line downtown’s North Main Street. Hudson is home to Seton Catholic School, Hudson Montessori and Western Reserve Academy. One of the original settlements of the Connecticut Western Reserve, Hudson has a distinct East Coast flavor.
Macedonia
Population – 11,188; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $77,866; median home value – $200,500. Along with being halfway from Cleveland to Akron, its proximity to major shopping areas is a draw for many.
Population – 11,188; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $77,866; median home value – $200,500. Along with being halfway from Cleveland to Akron, its proximity to major shopping areas is a draw for many.
Mogadore
Population – 5,212; residents under 18 years – 23.7 percent; median household income – $67,066; median home value – $165,600. Small, historic and family-oriented, Mogadore is adjacent to Akron’s east side. It features modest, older homes, quiet streets and some light industry on main thoroughfares.
Population – 5,212; residents under 18 years – 23.7 percent; median household income – $67,066; median home value – $165,600. Small, historic and family-oriented, Mogadore is adjacent to Akron’s east side. It features modest, older homes, quiet streets and some light industry on main thoroughfares.
Munroe Falls
Population – 5,012; residents under 18 years – 20.2 percent; median household income – $68,306; median home value – $167,200. A river runs through it, the Cuyahoga River, to be exact. Munroe Falls is a mature bedroom community surrounded by natural charms.
Population – 5,012; residents under 18 years – 20.2 percent; median household income – $68,306; median home value – $167,200. A river runs through it, the Cuyahoga River, to be exact. Munroe Falls is a mature bedroom community surrounded by natural charms.
New Franklin
Population – 14,227; residents under 18 years – 21.2 percent; median household income – $57,756; median home value – $149,300. Although New Franklin has a rural feel, three major state routes traverse the city, allowing easy access to nearby attractions. State Routes 93, 236 and 619 run through New Franklin, with easy access to State Route 21.
Population – 14,227; residents under 18 years – 21.2 percent; median household income – $57,756; median home value – $149,300. Although New Franklin has a rural feel, three major state routes traverse the city, allowing easy access to nearby attractions. State Routes 93, 236 and 619 run through New Franklin, with easy access to State Route 21.
Norton
Population – 12,085; residents under 18 years – 21.8 percent; median household – $55,252; median home value – $143,400. Norton, one of the oldest communities in the area, is made up mainly of single-family homes. Many of the city’s families have been there for generations.
Population – 12,085; residents under 18 years – 21.8 percent; median household – $55,252; median home value – $143,400. Norton, one of the oldest communities in the area, is made up mainly of single-family homes. Many of the city’s families have been there for generations.
Peninsula
Population – 537; residents under 18 years – 20.6 percent; median household income – $81,176; median home value – $257,300. Small and close-knit, the village has many historic homes that have been lovingly preserved, and the Towpath Trail brings lots of visitors to town to bike and hike.
Population – 537; residents under 18 years – 20.6 percent; median household income – $81,176; median home value – $257,300. Small and close-knit, the village has many historic homes that have been lovingly preserved, and the Towpath Trail brings lots of visitors to town to bike and hike.
Richfield Village and Township
Population – 6,165; residents under 18 years – 21.5 percent; median household income – $91,217; median home value – $281,628. Homes are built on large lots; neighborhoods have a rural feel honoring their history as farm communities. Close proximity to the Ohio Turnpike and major highways is a plus.
Population – 6,165; residents under 18 years – 21.5 percent; median household income – $91,217; median home value – $281,628. Homes are built on large lots; neighborhoods have a rural feel honoring their history as farm communities. Close proximity to the Ohio Turnpike and major highways is a plus.
Sagamore Hills
Population – 10,679; residents under 18 years – 19.7 percent; median household income – $86,766; median home value – $212,700. Sagamore Hills is the gateway to booming northern Summit County. Some historic homes remain and are accompanied by newer developments, including several condo developments.
Population – 10,679; residents under 18 years – 19.7 percent; median household income – $86,766; median home value – $212,700. Sagamore Hills is the gateway to booming northern Summit County. Some historic homes remain and are accompanied by newer developments, including several condo developments.
Silver Lake
Population – 2,651; residents under 18 years – 20 percent; median household income – $93,641; median home value – $217,000. If you like the water, check out Silver Lake, a quaint village that developed around two lakes. This quiet bedroom community has upscale homes and more moderately priced offerings.
Population – 2,651; residents under 18 years – 20 percent; median household income – $93,641; median home value – $217,000. If you like the water, check out Silver Lake, a quaint village that developed around two lakes. This quiet bedroom community has upscale homes and more moderately priced offerings.
Springfield Township
Population–14,644; residents under 18 years – 19.8 percent; median household Income – $47,397; median home value – $121,000. Springfield Township is located southeast of Akron. Springfield Lake, located in the center of the township, is one of the few natural lakes found in Ohio. Boating and fishing activities are popular.
Population–14,644; residents under 18 years – 19.8 percent; median household Income – $47,397; median home value – $121,000. Springfield Township is located southeast of Akron. Springfield Lake, located in the center of the township, is one of the few natural lakes found in Ohio. Boating and fishing activities are popular.
Stow
Population – 34,837; residents under 18 years – 22.7 percent; median household income – $63,834; median home value – $168,800. Stow is well-suited to raising children, with plenty of play areas and kid-friendly city events. Apartments and condominiums are also available for singles and smaller families.
Population – 34,837; residents under 18 years – 22.7 percent; median household income – $63,834; median home value – $168,800. Stow is well-suited to raising children, with plenty of play areas and kid-friendly city events. Apartments and condominiums are also available for singles and smaller families.
Tallmadge
Population – 17,537; residents under 18 years – 21.6 percent; median household income – $60,181; median home value – $167,100. This city, anchored by its famous traffic circle, is made up of mainly single-family homes in the middle price range. Large green spaces help maintain a country feel, while there is easy access to downtown Akron.
Population – 17,537; residents under 18 years – 21.6 percent; median household income – $60,181; median home value – $167,100. This city, anchored by its famous traffic circle, is made up of mainly single-family homes in the middle price range. Large green spaces help maintain a country feel, while there is easy access to downtown Akron.
Twinsburg
Population – 18,795; residents under 18 years – 25.4 percent; median household income – $69,662; median home value – $205,800, mid to higher-priced homes. The City of Twinsburg, in northern Summit County, was so named because its founders were twin brothers who married sisters. It is one of the fastest-growing communities in Ohio with a mix of small industry and mid-priced family homes.
Population – 18,795; residents under 18 years – 25.4 percent; median household income – $69,662; median home value – $205,800, mid to higher-priced homes. The City of Twinsburg, in northern Summit County, was so named because its founders were twin brothers who married sisters. It is one of the fastest-growing communities in Ohio with a mix of small industry and mid-priced family homes.
PORTAGE COUNTY
Aurora
Population – 15,548; residents under 18 years – 24.6 percent; median household income – $79,552; median home value – $260,100. This upscale community between Akron and Cleveland is popular with commuters to both areas. It is also home to a popular outlet mall.
Population – 15,548; residents under 18 years – 24.6 percent; median household income – $79,552; median home value – $260,100. This upscale community between Akron and Cleveland is popular with commuters to both areas. It is also home to a popular outlet mall.
Brimfield
Population – 3,343; residents under 18 years – 24.2 percent; median household income – $57,589; median home value – $162,900. Named after a community in Massachusetts, Brimfield is a township. It still is considered a rural area, although some major retailers have recently developed in the area.
Population – 3,343; residents under 18 years – 24.2 percent; median household income – $57,589; median home value – $162,900. Named after a community in Massachusetts, Brimfield is a township. It still is considered a rural area, although some major retailers have recently developed in the area.
Garrettsville
Population – 2,660; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $43,043; median home value – $159,900. Founded as a mill town, the village is the quintessential town. It has many Victorian and Colonial homes.
Population – 2,660; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $43,043; median home value – $159,900. Founded as a mill town, the village is the quintessential town. It has many Victorian and Colonial homes.
Kent
Population – 28,904; residents under 18 years – 14.1 percent; median household income – $26,696 (this includes students); median home value – $145,100. Home of Kent State University, The Davey Tree Expert Company, Smithers-Oasis, AMETEK and Kent Displays, the city has long drawn artists and writers. It also has a large park system, which includes fifteen parks and nature preserves.
Population – 28,904; residents under 18 years – 14.1 percent; median household income – $26,696 (this includes students); median home value – $145,100. Home of Kent State University, The Davey Tree Expert Company, Smithers-Oasis, AMETEK and Kent Displays, the city has long drawn artists and writers. It also has a large park system, which includes fifteen parks and nature preserves.
Ravenna
Population – 11,724; residents under 18 years – 22.5 percent; median household income – $33,523; median home value – $115,600. One of the Western Reserve’s first communities, Ravenna maintains its historic charm in its quaint downtown. Parts remain rural in feel, but most neighborhoods are well established.
Population – 11,724; residents under 18 years – 22.5 percent; median household income – $33,523; median home value – $115,600. One of the Western Reserve’s first communities, Ravenna maintains its historic charm in its quaint downtown. Parts remain rural in feel, but most neighborhoods are well established.
Rootstown
Population – 8,045; residents under 18 years – 24.7 percent; median household income – $58,110; median home value – $174,200. This community is home to the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), which was built on an old homestead. It is still considered rural, with a wide variety of housing options.
Population – 8,045; residents under 18 years – 24.7 percent; median household income – $58,110; median home value – $174,200. This community is home to the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), which was built on an old homestead. It is still considered rural, with a wide variety of housing options.
Streetsboro
Population – 16,028; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $60,740; median home value – $147,500. Streetsboro’s proximity to major highways and its location between Akron and Cleveland has made it a popular spot for many businesses and commuters. More than 400 companies call Streetsboro home.
Population – 16,028; residents under 18 years – 22.3 percent; median household income – $60,740; median home value – $147,500. Streetsboro’s proximity to major highways and its location between Akron and Cleveland has made it a popular spot for many businesses and commuters. More than 400 companies call Streetsboro home.
Suffield
Population – 6,320; residents under 18 years – 21 percent; median household income – $62,037; median home value – $167,200. The township is a long established, tight-knit rural community; some of its families date back generations.
Population – 6,320; residents under 18 years – 21 percent; median household income – $62,037; median home value – $167,200. The township is a long established, tight-knit rural community; some of its families date back generations.
MEDINA COUNTY
Brunswick
Population – 34,255; residents under 18 years – 25.2 percent; median household income – $62,022; median home value – $162,700. About 300 acres of green space keep this thriving community pleasant and peaceful. It has a wide range of single-family homes, apartments and condos.
Population – 34,255; residents under 18 years – 25.2 percent; median household income – $62,022; median home value – $162,700. About 300 acres of green space keep this thriving community pleasant and peaceful. It has a wide range of single-family homes, apartments and condos.
Granger
Population – 4,394; residents under 18 years – 27.5 percent; median household income – $86,346; median home value – $258,400. The township offers a rural setting marked by upscale homes. Its location makes it a haven for executives from the Akron and Cleveland areas.
Population – 4,394; residents under 18 years – 27.5 percent; median household income – $86,346; median home value – $258,400. The township offers a rural setting marked by upscale homes. Its location makes it a haven for executives from the Akron and Cleveland areas.
Hinckley
Population – 7,564; residents under 18 years – 23 percent; median household income – $79,531; median home value – $247,500. Like neighboring Granger, Hinckley Township is an upscale bedroom community serving the Akron and Cleveland areas. Each spring, it marks the return of buzzards with a unique celebration.
Population – 7,564; residents under 18 years – 23 percent; median household income – $79,531; median home value – $247,500. Like neighboring Granger, Hinckley Township is an upscale bedroom community serving the Akron and Cleveland areas. Each spring, it marks the return of buzzards with a unique celebration.
Medina
Population – 26,678; residents under 18 years – 28.3 percent; median household income – $60,650; median home value – $170,200. The City of Medina enjoys a long and rich history that is evident in the restored Victorian architecture of its picturesque Public Square area.
Population – 26,678; residents under 18 years – 28.3 percent; median household income – $60,650; median home value – $170,200. The City of Medina enjoys a long and rich history that is evident in the restored Victorian architecture of its picturesque Public Square area.
Seville
Population – 2,154; residents under 18 years – 20.1 percent; median household income – $67,292; median home value – $141,800. This is small town life in Medina County. The village has preserved its heritage as an early Western Reserve community. Historic homes are mixed in with brand new developments.
Population – 2,154; residents under 18 years – 20.1 percent; median household income – $67,292; median home value – $141,800. This is small town life in Medina County. The village has preserved its heritage as an early Western Reserve community. Historic homes are mixed in with brand new developments.
Wadsworth
Population – 21,567; residents under 18 years – 25.6 percent; median household income – $58,303; median home value – $157,500. Both the City and Township of Wadsworth have boomed in recent years, but the community has worked hard to preserve its small-town charm and boasts boutique and big box retailers. Historic homes, new condominiums and gracious single-family homes can be found there.
Population – 21,567; residents under 18 years – 25.6 percent; median household income – $58,303; median home value – $157,500. Both the City and Township of Wadsworth have boomed in recent years, but the community has worked hard to preserve its small-town charm and boasts boutique and big box retailers. Historic homes, new condominiums and gracious single-family homes can be found there.
Westfield Center
Population – 1,081; residents under 18 years – 18.3 percent; median household income – $104,779; median home value – $218,600. Executive-style homes are the norm in Westfield Center. Quiet, rural and small, the community draws from both Cleveland and Akron.
