Let the numbers do the talking.
Akron, OH vs Cincinnati, OH
Akron, OH vs Cincinnati, OH: What the data shows
Akron, OH is in Akron, OH while Cincinnati, OH is in Cincinnati, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Cincinnati, OH is the more affordable option at $387,900 median — $62,100 less than Akron, OH's $450,000. WYLT rates Akron, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Cincinnati, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Akron, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Cincinnati, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Akron, OH has Low flood risk and Cincinnati, OH has Low flood risk.
Akron, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Akron, OH scores 63/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Cincinnati, OH's 15/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Akron, OH has the higher school rating — Akron, OH rates 6.3/10 and Cincinnati, OH rates 6/10.
| Category | Akron, OH | Cincinnati, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $450K | $388K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $708 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $16K | $102K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 63/100 ✓ More walkable | 15/100 |
| Transit Score | 33/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 62/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 12 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.3/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | RentersStudentsYoung professionals | FamiliesCommuters to downtownRemote workers with higher income |
Bottom line
For renters, students, and young professionals who value walkability and a shorter commute, Akron may be the better choice despite its high rent burden. Families and those prioritizing good schools may prefer Cincinnati, but only if they can afford the steep price tag and don't mind driving everywhere. Overall, neither neighborhood stands out as a clear winner, and buyers should carefully weigh their priorities before deciding.
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