ohio / akron
renting in akron: surprisingly affordable, genuinely underrated
Akron gets overshadowed by Cleveland but it's got a lot going for it -- especially if your budget is tight. You can get a genuinely solid apartment here for less than you'd pay for a studio in most bigger cities. The University of Akron keeps the city young and there's been real investment in downtown over the last few years.
It's about 40 minutes from Cleveland, which means you get the affordability of Akron with reasonable access to Cleveland's job market and amenities if you need it. The rental market is mostly smaller landlords and regional property management companies -- nothing like the huge institutional landlords you see in Columbus.
where to live
neighborhoods in akron
Highland Square
$850/mo avgwalkable, local shops and restaurants, bohemian feel
best for: young adults, creatives, anyone wanting walkability on a budget
Downtown Akron
$900/mo avgrevitalized, close to work, newer apartments available
best for: professionals working downtown, people who want new construction
West Hill
$700/mo avgquiet, residential, good value
best for: budget-focused renters who don't need nightlife nearby
North Hill
$650/mo avgdiverse, very affordable, close to downtown
best for: renters prioritizing value above all else
before you sign
renter tips for akron
- Akron has a lot of older housing stock -- inspect furnaces and water heaters carefully. Ask for the age of major systems before you sign.
- Parking is rarely an issue here unlike bigger cities -- most rentals include it but confirm before assuming.
- University of Akron proximity matters a lot -- near-campus areas have student energy and turnover, further out is quieter.
- Summit County has public property records -- look up your potential landlord and property before committing.
watch out
red flags
- Some areas of North Akron have had issues with absentee landlords -- do a drive-by at different times of day before signing.
- Watch for properties that haven't been maintained -- Akron's older housing stock can hide expensive problems like outdated electrical or plumbing.
official resources