Real Estate Investing in Akron, Ohio
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in Akron, OH? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
For Homebuyers
GOOD FIT
Grade B (81/100)
Solid choice — values are growing steadily and the market is stable enough to buy with confidence.
For Investors
GOOD
3.8 / 5
(78/100)
Cash flow is real here. Appreciation is less certain, so underwrite to the rent math.
Risks to Know
1 flag
- Elevated vacancy: 10.0% vacancy may signal weakening demand.
What’s happening in Akron, OH?
Click any question — our AI will research it live from the web and show you sources.
🏦 30-yr Fixed Rate:
6.76%
as of Sep 10
Source: Freddie Mac PMMS
Avg Investability
★★★★★
Avg Home Value
$79,954
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,162
ZIP Codes
23
Market Trends — Akron, OH
Home Value History
Rent History
Local Pulse Report
AI-researched developments and news for Akron, OH. Updated on demand as visitors ask.
Growth & development in Akron, OH Updated 145 days ago
Akron is experiencing significant infrastructure overhauls and new business growth, but downtown construction is impacting existing businesses.
Opportunities
- The City of Akron passed a $341.9M capital budget for 2026, investing in infrastructure, public safety, and housing. — This investment improves city services, infrastructure, and supports community development. City of Akron
- GPD Group committed to keeping its national headquarters in Downtown Akron, projecting 120 new jobs over five years. — This expands local employment opportunities and stabilizes a key downtown area. GPD Group
- Akron's first food hall, Factory 816, is slated to open in the Middlebury neighborhood by 2027, creating up to 70 jobs. — This adds new dining and entertainment options and brings significant investment to the neighborhood. Signal Akron
- The Akron Innerbelt Master Plan, completed in March 2026, outlines over 30 projects to reconnect neighborhoods. — This plan aims to improve connectivity, support residents, and guide future development. City of Akron
- Bricks & Minifigs, a Lego store, opened in Fairlawn in January 2026, offering a variety of Lego products. — This provides new retail options and recreational opportunities for residents. Akron.com
Concerns
- Downtown Akron businesses, like Eddie's Famous Cheesesteaks and Lockview, report significant struggles due to ongoing construction and rising costs. — Construction disruptions and increased expenses are negatively impacting their customer traffic and financial stability. WKYC
- McNeil and NRM Inc., an Akron tire equipment maker, failed to pay 29 workers for two-and-a-half months in 2022. — This action deprived workers of earned wages, creating financial hardship. US Department of Labor
- Akron Metro CEO received substantial bonuses while bus operators and workers have not had a raise since June 2023. — This creates a disparity in compensation and has led to warnings of a potential strike. Transport Workers Union
Bottom line: Akron is actively investing in major infrastructure and attracting new businesses, but ongoing downtown construction poses challenges for existing local establishments.
Local news & events in Akron, OH Updated 145 days ago
Akron has seen a mix of positive community developments, including significant medical debt relief and improved water quality, alongside ongoing concerns about crime and environmental hazards.
Opportunities
- Akron announced in March 2026 that it had erased nearly $20 million in medical debt for approximately 17,000 residents through a partnership with a nonprofit. — This directly removes a significant financial burden, improving residents' financial stability and peace of mind. City of Akron
- An environmental study of Summit Lake, released in February 2026, showed improved water and sediment quality, allowing for expanded recreational programming. — Improved water quality expands opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, enhancing community recreation. Akron Civic Commons
- Akron city officials reported in October 2025 that drinking water quality had returned to normal and improved, with Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) levels within federal standards. — This ensures safer drinking water, reducing potential long-term health risks for residents. WKYC
- The City of Akron launched its first formal climate action planning process in September 2025, aiming to reduce carbon pollution and build resilience. — This initiative aims to improve air quality, lower energy bills, and create green jobs, enhancing overall quality of life. AkronOhio.gov
- Akron Children's Hospital received a historic $50 million unrestricted gift in April 2026 to support strategic priorities and clinical development. — This significant investment will enhance healthcare services and expand choices for families seeking pediatric care. Akron.com
Concerns
- In June 2025, an Ohio EPA inspection revealed serious environmental and public health risks at SRP Industries LLC in Akron, including hazardous waste and river contamination. — This poses unconsented health risks to workers and the surrounding environment due to potential exposure to toxic chemicals. Ohio Atomic Press
- A mother and 12-year-old son, residents of Barberton, were killed in a shooting on West Wilbeth Road in Akron on March 28, 2026. — This tragic event restricts the safety and well-being of residents, imposing a severe emotional and physical cost. Akron.com
- Akron's water testing, as of March 2026, revealed eight contaminants exceeding health advocacy guidelines, despite meeting EPA legal minimums. — This indicates potential long-term health risks for residents due to exposure to invisible contaminants like chromium and chloroform. Akron Water Quality Report
- In April 2026, police investigated shots fired into a Crosby Street home, with bullets entering a sleeping woman's apartment. — Such incidents restrict residents' sense of safety and security within their homes and neighborhoods. Akron.com
Bottom line: Akron is actively addressing health and environmental challenges while celebrating community improvements, though crime and pollution remain concerns.
Schools in Akron, OH Updated 145 days ago
Akron Public Schools is navigating significant financial challenges, leading to budget cuts and staff reductions despite academic improvements and new facility projects.
Opportunities
- Akron Public Schools (APS) voters approved Issue 27 in November 2024, authorizing an $85 million bond for a new North High School and an operating levy for daily expenses. — This provides significant capital for modern facilities and stable funding for ongoing educational needs. Ballotpedia/WKYC
- APS saw an overall improvement in its state report card rating, rising from 2.5 to 3.5 stars out of five in September 2025, meeting state standards. — This indicates improved academic performance and a better quality of education for students. Signal Akron
- The district broke ground on a new $76 million Pfeiffer Elementary and Miller South School for the Visual and Performing Arts campus in March 2026. — This new facility will offer expanded access to arts programs and modern learning environments for students. Signal Akron
- APS achieved a 90% graduation rate for the class of 2025 and earned a 4-star rating in College, Career, Workforce, and Military Readiness. — These metrics demonstrate the district's effectiveness in preparing students for post-graduation success. WKYC/Akron.com
- The district improved its 'Gap Closing' component rating from two to three stars in September 2024, showing better support for vulnerable student groups. — This indicates increased equity and improved outcomes for students who have historically struggled. Akron Public Schools
Concerns
- Akron Public Schools anticipates cutting $35 million from its budget in the 2027-2028 school year and an additional $55 million the following year. — These significant budget cuts will likely lead to deeper reductions in services and programs. Signal Akron
- The district is facing an $11 million budget reduction for the 2026-2027 school year, with proposed cuts impacting administrative, teaching, and support staff positions. — These cuts could lead to fewer resources and less direct support for students in classrooms. Akron.com/WYSO
- Enrollment in Akron Public Schools has significantly declined from 39,000 students in 1980 to 19,000 today. — Decreased enrollment directly impacts state funding, contributing to budget shortfalls and potential program reductions. WKYC
- The state's EdChoice voucher program diverts over $33 million annually from APS to private and charter schools. — This loss of funding exacerbates the district's financial challenges and limits resources for public school students. WKYC/WYSO
- APS is facing a potential loss of over $7.7 million in federal funding due to proposed cuts and the non-continuation of a GEAR UP grant. — This reduction threatens critical academic, enrichment, after-school, and college readiness programs for students. Akron Public Schools
Bottom line: Akron Public Schools is making academic strides and investing in new facilities, but faces substantial financial hurdles due to declining enrollment and state/federal funding issues.
Civic & policy in Akron, OH Updated 145 days ago
Akron and Summit County have seen significant government decisions and ballot measures impacting property taxes, zoning, and city services in 2024 and 2025.
Opportunities
- Summit County voters approved Issue 2 in November 2025, capping the county's unvoted property tax millage growth at 3% annually. — This limits potential increases in the county's portion of property taxes for residents, providing more predictable costs. Signal Akron
- The City of Akron passed its 2025 operating budget in April 2025, prioritizing public safety, core city services, and strategic initiatives. — This budget includes increased funding for Akron Public Schools' After School Program, a Citizens' Police Oversight Board data analyst, and litter cleanup efforts. wkyc.com
- Akron City Council approved a zoning text change in October 2025 to regulate vape/smoke shops, requiring licenses and setting distance requirements from sensitive areas. — This regulation aims to control the proliferation of vape shops and protect residential areas and community spaces. Akron.com
- The Akron Innerbelt Master Plan was completed in March 2026, with $500,000 budgeted for implementation to invest in neighborhoods and facilitate infill housing. — This plan aims to revitalize the Innerbelt area, create new housing opportunities, and improve neighborhood connectivity. wkyc.com
- Ohio's state income tax rate for those earning over $100,000 will decrease from 3.5% to 3.125% in 2025, moving towards a flat 2.75% in 2026. — This reduces the state income tax burden for many residents. Ohio Income Tax Updates
Concerns
- Summit County residents may see increased property taxes due to approved levies, including a 4.5 mill replacement levy for the Board of Developmental Disabilities and Akron School District levies, passed in 2023 and 202… — These levies will result in higher property tax bills for homeowners. Summit County Fiscal Officer
- Akron City Council approved sewer rate increases starting in 2026, with annual 5.3% increases through 2029 and a new fixed monthly charge. — These increases will lead to higher utility costs for Akron residents. Akron.com
- The University of Akron football team is ineligible for postseason play in 2025 due to failing to meet NCAA academic standards (Academic Progress Rate). — This restricts the university's athletic opportunities and may impact student-athlete recruitment and morale. CBS Sports
- Ohio State University is ending eight academic programs and merging others to comply with a state higher education reform bill requiring elimination of programs with low graduation rates. — This may limit academic choices for some students in Ohio, including those from Akron who might attend OSU. WYSO
Bottom line: Akron and Summit County residents face rising property taxes and utility costs, alongside new protections for taxpayers and investments in city services and development.
AI-generated from public web sources. Always verify with official records. Not financial, legal, or investment advice.
A great house in the wrong ZIP is still a bad deal — screen every market by cash flow & cap rate.
Open the Market Finder →Free to search · investor plans from $19/mo
The wrong ZIP kills a good deal — screen every market.
Open the Market Finder →
Best ZIP codes in Akron, OH
Akron is part of this metro. Every ZIP in it, ranked. Free.
Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in Akron, OH. Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
Do you own or manage rentals in Akron, OH?
~25 seconds · no account needed · your report is anonymous
Avg Home Value
$79,954
Avg Monthly Rent
$1,162
1% Rule
✓ Passes
Landlord Friendly (OH)
★★★★★
⚖️
Balanced Market
— Akron, OH metro
28
Days to pending
10.2%
Listings with price cuts
0.0%
Sale-to-list ratio
📅 Data as of August 29, 2026 — updated weekly
🎓 Colleges & Universities in Akron
3 Colleges
13,958 Students
1,149 Off-Campus Renters
C+
4-Year Public · 13,518 students
📍 ~1,149 students rent off-campus
C
Vocational For-Profit · 59 students
D
4-Year Private · 381 students
Investor Insight: With 1,149 students living off-campus, Akron has substantial rental demand from the college population — typically stable, lease-renewing tenants.
Neighborhoods in Akron
Chapel Hill
23 ZIP codes
Downtown
23 ZIP codes
East Akron
23 ZIP codes
Elizabeth Park Valley
23 ZIP codes
Ellet
23 ZIP codes
Fairlawn Heights
23 ZIP codes
Firestone Park
23 ZIP codes
Goodyear Heights
23 ZIP codes
Highland Square
23 ZIP codes
Kenmore
23 ZIP codes
Lane-Wooster
23 ZIP codes
Merriman Valley
23 ZIP codes
Middlebury
23 ZIP codes
North Hill
23 ZIP codes
Northwest Akron
23 ZIP codes
Portage Lakes
23 ZIP codes
Rolling Acres
23 ZIP codes
South Akron
23 ZIP codes
Summit Lake
23 ZIP codes
University of Ohio Akron
23 ZIP codes
ZIP Codes in Akron, OH
44313
Home Value
$265,376
Rent
$1,375/mo
44310
Home Value
$117,620
Rent
$1,132/mo
44319
Home Value
$249,243
Rent
$1,597/mo
44306
Home Value
$90,154
Rent
$942/mo
44305
Home Value
$125,039
Rent
$1,151/mo
44320
Home Value
$111,958
Rent
$1,172/mo
44314
Home Value
$106,773
Rent
$1,148/mo
44301
Home Value
$127,283
Rent
$1,202/mo
44303
Home Value
$257,642
Rent
$1,045/mo
44311
Home Value
$76,626
Rent
$1,085/mo
44307
Home Value
$81,071
Rent
$1,145/mo
44302
Home Value
$133,615
Rent
$1,220/mo
44304
Home Value
$96,533
Rent
$899/mo
44308
Home Value
$0
Rent
$767/mo
44325
Home Value
$0
44210
Home Value
$0
44211
Home Value
$0
44222
Home Value
$0
44242
Home Value
$0
44265
Home Value
$0
44309
Home Value
$0
44316
Home Value
$0
44334
Home Value
$0
Screen every ZIP in Akron
Filter Akron’s ZIPs by cap rate, vacancy, appreciation and 30+ more criteria, and export your shortlist to CSV — with the Investor plan ($19/mo).
View PlansFrequently Asked Questions About Akron, OH
Should investors consider Akron, OH?
Yes - Akron, OH a 3.8/5 investability score. With $80K home prices against $1,162/mo monthly rent, the market delivers a reasonable entry point for new investors.
How much is rent in Akron, OH?
Rental rates in Akron, OH average $1,162/mo. Tenant demand and $80K home values make the yield look reasonable by investor standards.
What is the smart move for investors in Akron, OH?
A value-add and BRRRR deals strategy Akron, OH best. The market produces measured results for that approach at the $80K price point.
Can you recycle capital via BRRRR in Akron, OH?
BRRRR in Akron, OH is a strong. The interplay of $80K values and $1,162/mo rents creates reasonable refinance conditions.
Is Akron, OH suited for a house hack?
House hacking in Akron, OH is reasonable to execute. Prices around $80K and rents of $1,162/mo solid owner-occupant economics.
Community Ratings
What people who’ve spent time here actually say. Not paid reviews.
Be the first to rate Akron, OH.
It takes 30 seconds. No signup. Your rating helps everyone who comes here after you.