Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Sterling Heights, MI (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Sterling Heights

Michigan
87

Akron is 32% cheaper than Sterling Heights.

$930/mo ↓ 27%
Median Rent
$1,267/mo ↑ 36%
$48,544/yr ↓ 38%
Median Income
$78,429/yr ↑ 62%
$111,200 ↓ 57%
Home Value
$260,700 ↑ 134%
$904/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↑ 38%
189,526
Population
133,473

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
19.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Sterling Heights, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $337/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $4,044/year.

Median household income is $29,885/year higher in Sterling Heights. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $260,700 in Sterling Heights.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Sterling Heights — common questions

Is Akron or Sterling Heights cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Sterling Heights?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Sterling Heights it's $1,267/month — a difference of $337/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Sterling Heights?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $78,429 in Sterling Heights. Median household income is $29,885/year higher in Sterling Heights.
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 Sterling Heights?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Sterling Heights has a cost index of 87 with rent of $1,267/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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