Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Springfield, MO (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Springfield

Missouri
60

Akron is 5% cheaper than Springfield.

$930/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$920/mo ↓ 1%
$48,544/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$45,984/yr ↓ 5%
$111,200 ↓ 33%
Home Value
$165,200 ↑ 49%
$904/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$908/mo ≈ Same
189,526
Population
169,432

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.75%
Sales Tax
4.225%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Springfield, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 60 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,560/year higher in Akron. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $165,200 in Springfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Springfield — common questions

Is Akron or Springfield cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 60 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Springfield?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Springfield it's $920/month — a difference of $10/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Springfield?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $45,984 in Springfield. Median household income is $2,560/year higher in Akron.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Missouri?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Springfield?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Springfield has a cost index of 60 with rent of $920/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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