Akron vs Cleveland: Cost of Living Comparison
Akron and Cleveland are just 40 miles apart in Northeast Ohio and share many economic ties, yet they offer distinct living experiences. Cleveland is the regional hub with major healthcare systems like the Cleveland Clinic, professional sports teams, and a larger cultural scene. Akron, once the rubber capital of the world, has pivoted toward polymer science and advanced manufacturing. Both cities have very affordable housing, though Akron edges slightly lower, making it a popular choice for Cleveland commuters looking to stretch their budgets.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Akron | Cleveland | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Index | 93 | 93 | Tie |
| Housing | 72 | 73 | Akron |
| Groceries | 98 | 99 | Akron |
| Transportation | 100 | 101 | Akron |
| Utilities | 98 | 99 | Akron |
Index values are estimates for general comparison purposes relative to a national average of 100. Lower is cheaper. Actual costs vary by neighborhood, household size, and lifestyle.
Visual Cost Comparison
Overall Index
Housing
Groceries
Transportation
Utilities
Green bars indicate the more affordable city in each category. National average = 100.
Salary Equivalent: Akron vs Cleveland
To maintain the same standard of living, here's what salaries earned in Akron are worth in Cleveland - and vice versa.
| Salary in Akron | Equivalent in Cleveland | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $50,000 | $0 |
| $75,000 | $75,000 | $0 |
| $100,000 | $100,000 | $0 |
| $150,000 | $150,000 | $0 |
Cleveland is more expensive, so you need more income to maintain your standard of living.
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Housing (Akron wins): Housing is 1% cheaper in Akron than Cleveland. Cleveland has a housing index of 73 vs 72. This is typically the largest expense category and drives most of the overall cost difference.
Groceries (Akron wins): Grocery costs in Akron (index 98) are lower than Cleveland (index 99). Both cities are at or below the national average for groceries.
Transportation (Akron wins): Transportation costs index 100 in Akron vs 101 in Cleveland. This includes gas prices, car insurance, public transit fares, and vehicle maintenance. The difference is modest and unlikely to significantly impact your budget.
Utilities (Akron wins): Utilities cost less in Akron (index 98) than Cleveland (index 99). This covers electricity, natural gas, water, sewage, internet, and phone service. Climate plays a significant role - cities with extreme temperatures tend to have higher utility costs.
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FAQ - Akron vs Cleveland Cost of Living
Is Akron or Cleveland more expensive to live in?
Cleveland is more expensive overall, with a cost of living index of 93 compared to 93 (national average = 100). The biggest difference is in housing, where Cleveland costs 1 index points more.
How much more expensive is housing in Cleveland vs Akron?
Housing in Cleveland has an index of 73 compared to 72 in Akron. That's 1% more expensive. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.
What is a $100,000 salary in Akron worth in Cleveland?
A $100,000 salary in Akron is equivalent to approximately $100,000 in Cleveland. This means you would need to earn less in Cleveland to maintain the same standard of living.
Are groceries cheaper in Akron or Cleveland?
Groceries are cheaper in Akron, with an index of 98 compared to 99 in Cleveland. The national average is 100, so both cities are below the national average.
Should I move from Akron to Cleveland to save money?
Cleveland is actually more expensive than Akron overall, with an index 0 points higher. However, consider your specific situation - salary differences between markets, state income taxes, and lifestyle preferences all factor in. Use our free calculator to estimate total relocation costs.