Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Akron is 66% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$930/mo ↓ 40%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 67%
$48,544/yr ↓ 40%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 67%
$111,200 ↓ 74%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 291%
$904/mo ↓ 45%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 81%
189,526
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
4.25%
5.75%
Sales Tax
6.0%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $622/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $7,464/year.

Median household income is $32,545/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Akron or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $622/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $32,545/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Michigan?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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