Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Topeka, KS (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Topeka

Kansas
58

Akron is 3% cheaper than Topeka.

$930/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$947/mo ↑ 2%
$48,544/yr ↓ 13%
Median Income
$55,902/yr ↑ 15%
$111,200 ↓ 15%
Home Value
$130,600 ↑ 17%
$904/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$930/mo ↑ 3%
189,526
Population
126,103

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
5.7%
5.75%
Sales Tax
6.5%
1.53%
Property Tax
1.41%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Topeka, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,358/year higher in Topeka. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $130,600 in Topeka.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Topeka — common questions

Is Akron or Topeka cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 58 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Topeka?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Topeka it's $947/month — a difference of $17/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Topeka?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $55,902 in Topeka. Median household income is $7,358/year higher in Topeka.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Kansas?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Topeka?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Topeka has a cost index of 58 with rent of $947/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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