Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Dayton

Ohio
50

Akron is 5% more expensive than Dayton.

$930/mo ↑ 7%
Median Rent
$866/mo ↓ 7%
$48,544/yr ↑ 12%
Median Income
$43,454/yr ↓ 10%
$111,200 ↑ 19%
Home Value
$93,200 ↓ 16%
$904/mo ↑ 9%
Owner Costs
$833/mo ↓ 8%
189,526
Population
136,741

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
3.5%
5.75%
Sales Tax
5.75%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $64/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $768/year.

Median household income is $5,090/year higher in Akron. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Dayton — common questions

Is Akron or Dayton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 55 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Dayton?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $64/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Dayton?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $5,090/year higher in Akron.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Ohio?
Both cities are in Ohio and share the same state tax rates: 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Dayton?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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