LIVING IN THE AKRON AREA
LIVING IN THE AKRON AREA
Canal Park, Akron's baseball stadium, is located in the heart of Downtown Akron.
AKRON AREA COMMUNITIES
About 30 miles south of Cleveland, midway along the historic Ohio & Erie Canalway, lies one of the best-kept secrets of the Great Lakes region. In its heyday, Akron was the undisputed Rubber Capital of the World, with manufacturing giants B.F. Goodrich, Goodyear Tire & Rubber, Firestone and General Tire dominating the landscape and economy. Today, Akron remains known as the City of Invention, a world-renowned center of polymer research and development and a trucking industry hub with easy access to a network of superhighways. Yet the city is also surrounded by lakes and rivers teeming with wildlife, 10,500 acres of Summit County Metro Parks and the 33,000-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
AKRON NEIGHBORHOODS:
Downtown Akron is home to The University of Akron, which enrolls approximately 20,000 students.
DOWNTOWN AKRON
• Population: 6,636
• Median Household Income: $20,736
• Median Home Value: $69,400
The city’s oldest commercial district has transformed into a vibrant neighborhood ideal for today’s young professionals and those craving a taste of urban living. By combining hip restaurants, coffee houses and clubs with new and recently restored offices, apartments, townhouses, lofts and condominiums, Akron has established a modern-day community committed to revitalizing the downtown culture. Easy access to museums, the library, concert halls, galleries and more adds to its appeal. It is also home to The University of Akron, with approximately 20,000 enrolled students. U of A’s many programs offer additional benefits of downtown living. For more information, contact Downtown Akron Partnership at 330.374.7676; downtownakron.com.
ELLET
• Population: 17,085
• Median Household Income: $43,129
• Median Home Value: $94,107
Ellet residents take pride in the suburban feel of this large neighborhood situated southeast of the city center. Ellet not only offers stable housing prices and abundant newer single-family homes but some of the best schools within the Akron Public Schools system. Ellet is also the home of Derby Downs, where the All-American Soap Box Derby takes place every summer, drawing visitors from around the world. For more information, contact City of Akron at 330.375.2311; akronohio.gov.
FAIRLAWN HEIGHTS
• Population: 2,875
• Median Household Income: $79,537
• Median Home Value: $201,933
This small, affluent neighborhood nestled on a hillside northwest of downtown Akron is known for its elegant, early-to-mid-century houses on large, wooded lots. Once home to the Quaker Oats heiress, today Fairlawn Heights offers easy access to I-77 and attractive retail, office and apartment developments. For more information, contact Fairlawn Heights Neighborhood Association at fairlawnheightsakron.org.
FIRESTONE PARK
• Population: 14,566
• Median Household Income: $39,122
• Median Home Value: $78,442
Firestone Park is the legacy of Harvey Firestone, who, back in the 1930s, planned this neighborhood of tree-lined boulevards, diverse architectural styles and a central park to provide housing for his tire and rubber factory workers. Today, Firestone Park remains one of Akron’s most stable neighborhoods, with well-maintained homes and a growing commercial district along Aster Avenue. The park itself, shaped like the original Firestone shield emblem, remains the heart of the community. With easy access to I-77 and I-277, Firestone Park is as convenient as it is livable. For more information, contact greatstreetsakron.com/district/firestone-park.
GOODYEAR HEIGHTS
• Population: 19,778
• Median Household Income: $39,030
• Median Home Value: $71,329
Akron’s most historic neighborhood serves as a local landmark and reminder of Akron’s heyday as the Rubber Capital of the World. Goodyear founder Frank Seiberling built Goodyear Heights in the early 1900s to improve living conditions for his workers. Today the neighborhood retains most of its original, small-town atmosphere, with mature trees, winding streets and small parks that provide a restful green oasis within the city. Goodyear Heights, in fact, has more open and public parkland than any other neighborhood in Akron, including Goodyear Heights Metro Park. Homes range from English Cottages to Colonials to Craftsman Bungalows to Tudor Revivals, perfect for young families and empty nesters alike. For more information, contact Historic Goodyear Heights at historicgoodyearheights.com.
The "Little Free Library" in Highland Square. / Photo: JM Turnauckas Photography
HIGHLAND SQUARE
• Population: 10,828
• Median Household Income: $43,705
• Median Home Value: $98,953
Located 12 minutes northwest of Akron, this hip urban neighborhood is favored by locals for its artsy atmosphere and walkability. Antique shops, affordable eateries, an organic grocery store, the historic art-deco Highland Theater movie house and a mix of single-family homes and modern apartment complexes make Highland Square especially popular among artists and young professionals. The annual PorchRokr Music & Arts Festival draws visitors from all over Northeast Ohio. For more information, contact Highland Square Neighborhood Association at highlandsquareakron.org.
A canopy of trees shades a portion of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park towpath that runs through the Merriman Valley.
Photo: Carrie Russel
MERRIMAN VALLEY
• Population: 7,748
• Median Household Income: $52,394
• Median Home Value: $116,643
This affluent neighborhood northwest of downtown, situated along the banks of the Cuyahoga River, mingles memories of Ohio's past with upscale retail businesses, restaurants and bars. The Merriman Valley prides itself as the Gateway to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Houses represent a wide range of range of architectural styles, from large Colonial and Georgian to Spanish and Renaissance Revival, many with wooded lots. For more information, contact merrimanvalleyakron.com.
NORTH HILL
• Population: 15,861
• Median Household Income: $41,920
• Median Home Value: $53,360
First settled by Italian immigrants, this primarily single-family residential neighborhood is now a diverse community blending many different cultures. Plenty of Italian restaurants and markets maintain North Hill’s original flavor and tradition. The community is bordered on the west by Cascade Valley Metro Park, on the east by Gorge Metro Park and on the north by Cuyahoga Falls. For more information, contact City of Akron at 330.375.2311; akronohio.gov.
NORTHWEST AKRON
• Population: 10,910
• Median Household Income: $80,193
• Median Home Value: $165,320
Bordered by Sand Run Metro Park to the north, Fairlawn Country Club to the west and Portage Country Club to the south, Northwest Akron offers stately, well-kept homes on large lots, with apartment buildings along Portage Path, in the Valley, and in the North Hawkins area. Many of the homes were originally built at the turn of the 20th century for Akron’s “Rubber Barons”; in fact, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens—the former estate of F.A. Seiberling, one of the co-founders of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.—is located here and is a popular tourist attraction. For more information, contact City of Akron at 330.375.2311; akronohio.gov.
SOUTH AKRON (KENMORE)
Located south of Downtown and University Park, this neighborhood offers easy access to I-76 and I-77. Also known as Kenmore, the neighborhood offers a stable inventory of moderately priced single-family homes. For more information, contact City of Akron at 330.375.2311; akronohio.gov.
WALLHAVEN
• Population: 4,239
• Median Household Income: $59,651
• Median Home Value: $127,160
Northwest of downtown Akron, situated at the intersections of Market Avenue, Exchange Street and Hawkins Avenue, Wallhaven is a commercial and residential district that offers a diverse mix of people, businesses and home options. Modest, well-maintained single-family homes dominate the area east of Hawkins, with a more varied mix west of it. Hardesty Park, Forest Lodge Park and the Northwest Community Center nearby offer recreational opportunities. For more information, contact greatstreetsakron.com/district/wallhaven.
SUMMIT COUNTY COMMUNITIES:
The driving time to downtown Akron from the following areas averages 20 to 30 minutes.
BARBERTON
• Population: 26,266
• Median Household Income: $39,456
• Median Home Value: $85,800
Situated southwest of Akron, around a beautiful natural lake left behind by the last glacial retreat, Barberton is a mix of older homes on quiet streets and a burgeoning downtown arts district. Barberton was founded at a time when Ohio was bustling with growth from the Industrial Revolution. Today’s Barberton, still nicknamed the Magic City, is undergoing rebirth and rejuvenation, with new jobs in the education, health care and technology sectors and a large investment in schools, infrastructure and recreational facilities. For more information, contact City of Barberton at 330.753.6611; cityofbarberton.com.
Szalay's Farm & Market, in Bath Township, is a favorite spot to buy sweet corn in the summer and pumpkins in the fall.
Photo: Carrie Russel
BATH TOWNSHIP
• Population: 4,776
• Median Household Income: $101,884
• Median Home Value: $301,000
This affluent rural community just north of Akron proudly retains its rich history, on display along the Heritage Corridors of Bath, an Ohio Scenic Byway. The byway connects three charming hamlets—Hammonds Corners, Bath Center and Ghent—featuring numerous sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Most homes are built on lots of an acre or more. Part of Cuyahoga Valley National Park lies within Bath Township, including the Old Trail School, an independent day school for grades preK-8, centered around environmental education and the philosophies of John Dewey and Maria Montessori. Also located in Bath is Hale Farm and Village, a renowned living-history museum operated by the Western Reserve Historical Society. For more information, contact Bath Township at 330.666.4007; bathtownship.org.
BOSTON HEIGHTS
• Population: 1,208
• Median Household Income: $103,603
• Median Home Value: $347,800
With over one third of the village located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Boston Heights is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail runs the length of the village, and Boston Mills & Brandywine Ski Resorts are just three miles down the road. Boston Heights also offers easy access to the Ohio Turnpike and State Route 8 and has a strong commercial base. It’s the corporate headquarters for national home furnishings brand Arhaus and boasts a brand-new retail center anchored by Costco and Bass Pro. For more information, contact Village of Boston Heights at 330.650.4111; villageofbostonheights.com.
COPLEY
• Population: 17,985
• Median Household Income: $61,000
• Median Home Value: $194,000
Situated near the Summit-Medina County border west of Akron, Copley is a mix of quiet residential neighborhoods, old-time farms and boutique businesses. Most of Copley Township falls within the highly rated Copley-Fairlawn City School District, which is rated #2 in Summit County by Niche.com and received a 2019 Beacon’s Best Award from readers of the Akron Beacon Journal. For more information, contact Copley Township at 330.666.1853; copley.oh.us.
COVENTRY TOWNSHIP
• Population: 10,929
• Median Household Income: $57,292
• Median Home Value: $124,700
Surrounded by the numerous lakes of Portage Lakes State Park, Coventry Township is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The excellent school system and the natural beauty of the area make it an ideal residential community year-round, as well as a popular place for a summer home. For more information, contact Coventry Township at 330.644.0785; coventrytownship.com.
Little Falls can be viewed from the walkway behind the Sheraton Suites on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls.
CUYAHOGA FALLS
• Population: 49,353
• Median Household Income: $51,586
• Median Home Value: $120,000
The second-largest city in Summit County, located on the southern elbow of the Cuyahoga River where it bends north toward Cleveland, Cuyahoga Falls offers not only spectacular natural beauty but some of the best municipal services in the region, outstanding public schools and an award-winning downtown riverfront district. Part of Cuyahoga Valley National Park is within Cuyahoga Falls. The city is proud of its “Tree City USA” status and culture of environmental awareness, as well as its 25 neighborhood parks and Blossom Music Center, summer home to the world-renowned Cleveland Symphony Orchestra. New homeowners even receive a welcome packet containing over $2,800 worth of free and discounted goods from local businesses. For more information, contact City of Cuyahoga Falls at 330.971.8000; cityofcf.com.
FAIRLAWN
• Population: 7,477
• Median Household Income: $65,521
• Median Home Value: $174,700
With homes ranging from two-bedroom bungalows to spacious, traditional Colonials across a wide price range, this community northeast of Akron offers quick access to Interstates 76 and 77. The school district, which Fairlawn shares with Copley Township, is rated #2 in Summit County by Niche.com and received a 2019 Beacon’s Best Award from readers of the Akron Beacon Journal. For more information, contact City of Fairlawn at 330.668.9500; fairlawn.us.
GREEN
• Population: 25,713
• Median Household Income: $66,656
• Median Home Value: $173,600
Affluent and rural in feel, Green is situated halfway between Akron and Canton, offering a diverse housing market and the convenience of being home to Akron-Canton Airport. Green also features five golf courses, two full-service hospitals and numerous public parks, including Ariss Dog Park, the southern portion of Portage Lakes State Park and world-class soccer and lacrosse fields at Springhill Sports Complex. For more information, contact City of Green at 333.896.5500; cityofgreen.org.
The historic buildings lining downtown Hudson’s North Main Street reflect a distinct East Coast influence.
Photo: City of Hudson
HUDSON
• Population: 22,282
• Median Household Income: $126,618
• Median Home Value: $313,000
Historic buildings line downtown Hudson’s North Main Street, reflecting a distinctly East Coast influence, while the city’s economic sector thrives due to a strong tech- and business-friendly environment. Large companies headquartered in Hudson include Little Tikes and JOANN Fabric & Crafts. Families are drawn to the city’s top-notch schools: Hudson City Schools are ranked #1 in Summit County by Niche.com, and students from all over the country attend
Western Reserve Academy, an independent boarding and day school for grades 9-12. Ranked #4 on the Chamber of Commerce.org 2019 Best Cities to Live in Ohio, Hudson is conveniently located near Interstate 80, State Route 8 and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For more information, contact City of Hudson at 330.650.1799; hudson.oh.us.
The Macedonia Family Recreation Center offers a lap pool and an activity pool for its members. / Photo: City of Macedonia
MACEDONIA
• Population: 11,595
• Median Household Income: $86,061
• Median Home Value: $189,700
Macedonia prides itself on being “The Crossroads of Northeast Ohio,” with easy access to I-480, I-271, I-80 and State Route 8, midway between Akron and Cleveland. According to Backgroundchecks.org, Macedonia is one of the top ten safest communities in Ohio. It also has one of the largest city-owned park systems in Ohio, at over 325 acres, as well as a 55,000-square-foot Family Recreation Center. Macedonia is part of the Nordonia Hills City School District. For more information, contact City of Macedonia at 330.468.8300; macedonia.oh.us.
MOGADORE
• Population: 3,662
• Median Household Income: $62,477
• Median Home Value: $113,400
Small, historic and family-oriented, Mogadore lies to the east of Akron. The Little Cuyahoga River flows through this former mill town, which features modest, older homes, quiet streets and some light industry on main thoroughfares. Mogadore is proud of its unique heritage; the town once served as a station on the Underground Railroad and was also a major center of fine pottery production, after vast clay beds were discovered in the late 1820s. Today, any pottery with a Mogadore stamp is highly coveted on the antiques market. For more information, contact Village of Mogadore at 330.628.4896; mogadorevillage.org.
MUNROE FALLS
• Population: 34,746
• Median Household Income: $66,079
• Median Home Value: $166,200
The Cuyahoga River and the Summit County Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail run through Munroe Falls, a charming, family-friendly bedroom community comprising less than three square miles on the Summit-Portage County line. Munroe Falls is part of the Stow-Monroe Falls City School District and offers affordable, upscale housing just five miles from Kent State University. For more information, contact City of Munroe Falls at 330.688.7491; munroefalls.com.
NEW FRANKLIN
• Population: 14,195
• Median Household Income: $68,161
• Median Home Value: $134,600
New Franklin is one of Ohio’s newest municipalities, located at the southern edge of Summit County. Although New Franklin has a rural feel, three major state routes traverse the city, allowing easy access to nearby attractions. A portion of Portage Lakes State Park also lies in New Franklin, as does the Franklin Trailhead of the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail, providing residents with access to the 85-mile-long multipurpose recreational trail. For more information, contact City of New Franklin at 330.882.4324, newfranklin.org.
Peninsula retains much of its nineteenth-century charm, with lovingly preserved historic homes and shops full of collectibles.
Photo: Jon Dawson
PENINSULA
• Population: 615
• Median Household Income: $94,167
• Median Home Value: $246,800
Small and close-knit, the village of Peninsula retains much of its nineteenth-century charm, with lovingly preserved historic homes, interesting shops full of art and collectibles, and the Peninsula Train Depot, where you can hop on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad along the Ohio & Erie Canalway. Peninsula serves as the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, drawing thousands of visitors a year to the Boston Mill Visitor Center, several hiking trailheads and the Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail. For more information, contact Village of Peninsula at 330.657.2151; villageofpeninsula-oh.gov.
RICHFIELD VILLAGE AND TOWNSHIP
• Population: 3,651
• Median Household Income: $67,875
• Median Home Value: $225,900
Richfield Township is located in the northwest corner of Summit County, bounded by Medina County to the west and Cuyahoga County to the north. Just sixteen miles from Cleveland and fifteen northeast of Akron, Richfield Township enjoys easy access to both metropolitan areas; several major highways, including Interstates 77, 271 and 80 (The Ohio Turnpike), cross through it. Homes are built on large lots, and neighborhoods retain a rural feel that reflects the township’s history as a farming community. For more information, contact Village of Richfield at 330.659.9201; richfieldvillageohio.org.
SAGAMORE HILLS TOWNSHIP
• Population: 10,922
• Median Household Income: $83,044
• Median Home Value: $206,800
Considered the northern gateway to Summit County, bordering Cuyahoga Valley National Park to the west, Sagamore Hills is a bucolic bedroom community with a predominance of newer homes and condominiums. The township is 95% residential and prides itself on sound fiscal management, income-tax-free living and access to stunning natural beauty. Winding roads, scenic streams and the Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail wind their way through Sagamore Hills, which is part of the Nordonia Hills City School District. For more information, contact Sagamore Hills Township at 330.467.0900; mysagamorehills.com.
SILVER LAKE
• Population: 2,452
• Median Household Income: $94,500
• Median Home Value: $198,100
Silver Lake is a quaint village developed around two scenic lakes that offer ample recreational opportunities. Home to the Silver Lake Country Club, this quiet community has upscale homes as well as more moderately priced offerings and is part of the Cuyahoga Falls School District. For more information, contact Village of Silver Lake at 330.923.5233; villageofsilverlake.com.
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP
• Population: 36,443
• Median Household Income: $55,828
• Median Home Value: $121,800
Nestled between the Little Cuyahoga River and the Tuscarawas River in the gently rolling hills immediately southeast of Akron, Springfield Township is conveniently located five miles from Akron-Canton Airport. Springfield Lake, in the center of the township, is one of the largest glacial lakes found in Northeast Ohio and offers ample recreational opportunities for boaters and anglers. For more information, contact Springfield Township at 330.794.1739; springfieldtownship.us.
STOW
• Population: 34,746
• Median Household Income: $66,079
• Median Home Value: $166,200
Stow is Summit County’s third-largest city, with a very competitive housing market. It is part of the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District. Family-friendly activities and recreational facilities abound, including the 7.5-acre Bow Wow Beach Dog Park, Fox Den Golf Course and Silver Spring Campground, one of only a few municipally operated campgrounds in Ohio. Stow is located on the Summit-Portage County line, just west of the vibrant college-town of Kent. For more information, contact City of Stow at 330.689.2700; stowohio.org.
TALLMADGE
• Population: 17,488
• Median Household Income: $59,863
• Median Home Value: $156,400
Directly adjacent to the city of Akron, on the Summit-Portage County border, Tallmadge offers a wide variety of housing opportunities, convenient shopping areas and numerous recreational facilities, including a 100,000 square-foot health, fitness and recreation center and the Summit Metro Parks Freedom Trail. These, coupled with an excellent school system and large tracts of desirable residential, commercial and industrial lands set aside for development, make Tallmadge attractive to families and professionals alike. A small part of the city falls in Portage County. For more information, contact City of Tallmadge at 330.633.0857; tallmadge-ohio.org.
TWINSBURG
• Population: 18,851
• Median Household Income: $73,314
• Median Home Value: $210,100
Located halfway between Akron and Cleveland, Twinsburg has evolved from its rural roots into a vibrant suburban community with an expanding commercial center, a variety of housing options and acres of peaceful parkland connected by a 4.4-mile Center Valley Loop Trail. Twinsburg has been listed as one of the Best Places to Live in the U.S. by both CNN Money Magazine and Money.com. Founded by a set of identical twins from Connecticut in 1819, the town is famous for its annual Twins Day Festival, the world’s largest annual gathering of twins and multiples. For more information, contact City of Twinsburg at 330.425.7161; mytwinsburg.com.
AURORA
• Population: 15,712
• Median Household Income: $84,135
• Median Home Value: $241,800
Located in the northwest corner of Portage County, this affluent rural community is favored for its easy commute to both Akron and Cleveland, its top-rated school district, beautifully maintained properties and newer housing developments. Walden, a luxury community within Aurora, offers upscale, custom-tailored homes, an award-winning spa, an elegant inn and a prestigious golf club. Residents of Aurora also enjoy proximity to Aurora Farms Premium Outlets, one of Northeast Ohio’s two outlet malls. For more information, contact City of Aurora at 330.562.6131; auroraoh.com.
GARRETTSVILLE
• Population: 2,870
• Median Household Income: $58,250
• Median Home Value: $151,600
Founded as a mill town in the mid-1800s, this village in northeastern Portage County retains its rural character in the midst of Northeast Ohio’s rapid growth. Garrettsville features many Victorian and colonial homes, as well as shops and businesses that date back to the town’s early days. Garrettsville is served by the James A. Garfield Local Schools, one of the best in Portage County according to Niche.com. Residents also enjoy hiking and biking on the 8.5-mile Portage Park District Headwaters Trail. For more information, contact Village of Garrettsville at 330.687.9637; garrettsville.org.
HIRAM
• Population: 1,320
• Median Household Income: $49,779
• Median Home Value: $187,100
This charming college town in northern Portage County is surrounded by rolling farmland, just west of the upper portion of the Cuyahoga River. Residents of Hiram enjoy low property taxes, plentiful outdoor recreation and highly regarded public schools. At the heart of the community, both literally and figuratively, is Hiram College, a nationally ranked liberal arts college offering undergraduate, graduate, adult-undergraduate and other educational programs. For more information, contact Village of Hiram at 330.569.7677; hiramvillage.org.
The Kent Heritage Festival, an annual day-long celebration, features fireworks, live music and over 100 food vendors and craft booths. / Photo: John Ridinger
KENT
• Population: 29,761
• Median Household Income: $36,539
• Median Home Value: $139,900
As the largest city in Portage County and the home of Kent State University, Kent enjoys all the culture and vibrancy of a progressive college town while retaining the low cost of living and accessibility of Northeast Ohio. Colorful murals and public art adorn the city streets; festivals and live music keep people hopping. The university adds around 30,000 seasonal students to the city’s population and is also home to Kent State University Museum, one of the world’s largest collections of historic and contemporary garments and textiles, and the May 4 Visitor Center, commemorating the fatal shootings of four student protestors 50 years ago. For more information, contact City of Kent at 330.678.8007; kentohio.org.
MANTUA VILLAGE
• Population: 1,153
• Median Household Income: $41,500
• Median Home Value: $134,100
Mantua (pronounced "MAN-a-way") is located 20 miles northeast of Akron, along one of the most scenic stretches of the Upper Cuyahoga River, yet with easy access to the Ohio Turnpike (I-80). A popular destination for paddlers, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts, Mantua also boasts highly rated schools, the annual Art on the Hill festival, the western terminus of the Portage Park District Headwaters Trail, and a growth plan managed carefully by the village’s downtown revitalization committee. For more information, contact Village of Mantua at 330.274.8776; mantuavillage.com.
RAVENNA
• Population: 11,582
• Median Household Income: $36,087
• Median Home Value: $99,600
This centrally located seat of Portage County has experienced rapid growth and a downtown revival in recent years. Founded over two centuries ago, today the community boasts a tasteful mix of contemporary and historic buildings, a wide selection of housing options and a diverse economy. Many Ravenna residents commute to Akron and Cleveland, while others are employed by local manufacturers, county government or University Hospitals Portage Medical Center. Ravenna is also known for its annual Balloon-a-Fair hot air balloon festival, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. For more information, contact City of Ravenna at 330.296.6326, ravennaoh.gov.
RANDOLPH TOWNSHIP
• Population: 5,306
• Median Household Income: $62,705
• Median Home Value: $169,900
Randolph Township is a medium-size community in southern Portage County and part of the Waterloo Local School District. Randolph Township is best known for hosting the annual Portage County Fair, which includes a demolition derby, truck and tractor pulls and all your other favorite features of a classic county fair. For more information, contact Randolph Township at 330.325.3101; randolphtownshipohio.com.
ROOTSTOWN
• Population: 8,215
• Median Household Income: $62,089
• Median Home Value: $174,100
This rural, family-oriented community 17 miles east of Akron is conveniently located at the Interstate 76/State Route 44 interchange. Rootstown is home to Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), a fully accredited university offering degrees in medicine, pharmacy and health sciences. Residents of Rootstown also enjoy boating, picnicking and camping at West Branch State Park, which encompasses 5,352 acres of land and 2,650 acres of water. For more information, contact Rootstown Township at 330.325.9560; rootstowntwp.com.
The Streetsboro City Park offers a playground, skate park, tennis courts, a paved walking path, baseball fields, concessions and many other amenities. / Photo: Michelle Hushion
STREETSBORO
• Population: 16,224
• Median Household Income: $58,511
• Median Home Value: $144,300
Streetsboro offers residents a close-knit community, affordable housing and proximity to Interstate 480 and the Ohio Turnpike (I-80). Streetsboro's popular
theatre program, THRIVE, encourages students and community members to create and stage live performances. Boulder Creek Golf Club is located in Streetsboro, as is the Tinker’s Creek Area of Liberty Park, which features archery, boating and fishing. For those who enjoy overnighting in the great outdoors, there is the Streetsboro/Cleveland SE KOA campground. Residents also enjoy all the amenities and cultural attractions of nearby Kent to the south and Hudson to the west. For more information, contact City of Streetsboro at 330.626.4942; cityofstreetsboro.com.
BRUNSWICK
• Population: 34,578
• Median Household Income: $64,706
• Median Home Value: $159,400
Brunswick is the largest city in Medina County, just south of Cleveland on Interstate 71 and convenient to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Still, it retains its small-town, community-oriented vibe, having been listed as one of the top ten towns in the U.S for families by Family Circle Magazine (2008) and among the top ten safest cities in Ohio according to Alarms.com (2019). Cuyahoga Community College and The University of Akron have campuses in Brunswick, and University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic and MetroHealth all have medical facilities here. With strong commercial and industrial sectors, attracted by highway access and workforce training opportunities, Brunswick is experiencing growth in the business sector. Yet it also has over 335 acres of green space and a highly rated school system—including a new, state-of -the-art middle school opening fall 2020. For more information, contact City of Brunswick at 330.225.9144; brunswick.oh.us.
CHIPPEWA LAKE
• Population: 656
• Median Household Income: $53,594
• Median Home Value: $130,700
This neighborly community in southern Medina County is located on one of the largest natural inland lakes in Ohio. Chippewa Lake Park, originally developed in the late 1800s as a prosperous vacation resort, offers residents ample recreational amenities and even boasts its own waterski show team. The village of Chippewa Lake is surrounded by Lafayette Township (see entry for Lafayette Township) and is served by the Cloverleaf Local School District. For more information, contact Village of Chippewa Lake at 330.769.3895; chippewalake.net.
GRANGER TOWNSHIP
• Population: 4,615
• Median Household Income: $100,408
• Median Home Value: $273,100
With 2020 marking the 200th anniversary of Granger Township, this community on the eastern edge of the county retains its rural charm while boasting easy access to Interstates 71 and 271. Upscale homes make Granger an attractive location for executives from the Akron and Cleveland areas, while families appreciate the excellent schools. Granger is served by the Highland Local School District, ranked #1 in Medina County by Niche.com. Overall, Granger Township receives an A from Niche.com for its family-friendliness and housing options. For more information, contact Granger Township at 330.239.3611; grangertwp.org.
HINCKLEY TOWNSHIP
• Population: 7,927
• Median Household Income: $88,750
• Median Home Value: $312,500
Hinckley, in the northwest corner of Medina County, is known throughout Ohio—and nationally—as the “Home of the Buzzards.” Each spring, the town marks the return of migrating vultures with a celebration that draws as many as 50,000 visitors. However, residents of Hinckley know there is much more to their community than that. With the slogan “Small Town, Big Hearts,” the town takes pride in its community garden, free snowplow removal for seniors and other neighbor-oriented amenities. Nature lovers are also drawn to the area. The stunning Hinckley Reservation, part of the Cleveland Metroparks, is a popular birding spot and features a large lake enjoyed by anglers and paddle-sport enthusiasts. For more information, contact Hinckley Township at 330.278.4181; hinckleytwp.org.
LAFAYETTE TOWNSHIP
• Population: 5,700
• Median Household Income: $70,139
• Median Home Value: $179,600
Situated immediately southwest of the city of Medina, Lafayette Township features excellent roads and ready access to a wide array of shopping venues and conveniences while retaining a relaxed and rural flavor. The Township boasts the largest natural lake in Ohio, the historic and scenic Chippewa Lake, which is preserved as part of the Medina County Park District. Lafayette Township has recently developed a Technology Park, featuring the Medina County University Center affiliated with The University of Akron. The University Center brings together a unique blend of traditional college coursework and workforce development programs. For more information, contact Lafayette Township at 330.725.6515; lafayettetownship.com.
LITCHFIELD TOWNSHIP
• Population: 3,363
• Median Household Income: $46,324
• Median Home Value: $207,900
Residents of this small, unincorporated community nine miles northwest of Medina enjoy a rural, family-oriented lifestyle. Litchfield is served by the Buckeye School District and offers many programs and activities for youth. The heart of Litchfield is Circle Park, where residents gather for ice cream socials, holiday celebrations and band concerts. The Litchfield Town Band, founded in 1901, was recently honored by the Ohio History Center with a historical marker next to the park’s gazebo. For more information, contact Litchfield Township at 330.723.6966; litchfieldtownship.com.
LODI
• Population: 2,789
• Median Household Income: $36,207
• Median Home Value: $88,300
With small-town charm, wonderful parks and many retailers, dining establishments and service providers for residents to choose from, Lodi offers affordability with easy access to Interstates 71 and 76. Lodi also boasts a hospital that is part of the Cleveland Clinic Akron General health system, a state-of-the-art branch of Medina County Library, land available for new development and a commitment to commercial and residential growth while preserving the town’s heritage. For more information, contact Village of Lodi at 330.948.2040; villageoflodi.com.
Residents shop the Medina Farmers Market for locally grown fruits and vegetables every Saturday, May-October,
on Medina Public Square. / Photo: Annette Miller
MEDINA
• Population: 26,445
• Median Household Income: $60,706
• Median Home Value: $160,700
Located 25 miles west of Akron, the city of Medina is also the county seat. Medina was recently recognized as one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns by Ohio Magazine in the categories of Education, Entertainment, Health and Safety, Business Environment and Culture and Heritage, making it an exceptional place to work, raise a family and retire. The city is surrounded by numerous county parks and preserves. It’s also home to acclaimed public, parochial and career-tech schools, an array of respected healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Historic Medina Public Square, which draws thousands of visitors to activities such as the Medina Ice Festival, Candlelight Walk, Farmers Market and free summer concerts, features picturesque Victorian architecture, charming boutiques and trendy eateries. For more information, contact City of Medina at 330.722.9020; medinaoh.org.
SEVILLE
• Population: 2,505
• Median Household Income: $55,188
• Median Home Value: $141,400
In the gently rolling farmland of southern Medina County, the residents of Seville enjoy all the advantages of rural-suburban living, within minutes from the intersection of Interstates 71 and 76. Settled in 1816, Seville has many century homes and historical sites reflecting its heritage, while residents also enjoy a property tax abatement of up to 50% for new construction (15 years) and renovations (12 years). The center of town is filled with antique shops, boutiques and eateries, and four city parks provide bike trails, ball fields, nature trails and ADA-accessible picnic areas. For more information, contact Village of Seville at 330.769.4146; villageofseville.org.
Residents of Wadsworth join Santa at the annual Candlelight Walk to enjoy carriage rides, carolers and other holiday fun.
Photo: Medina County Visiotrs Bureau
WADSWORTH
• Population: 22,578
• Median Household Income: $62,607
• Median Home Value: $162,300
Wadsworth is located in the southwestern corner of the county, along I-76 between I-77 and I-71, offering an easy commute to Akron. According to the city’s website, Wadsworth is the third-fastest-growing city in Northeast Ohio and the fourth-fastest in the state, with a unique mix of families who have lived here for generations and families who have recently discovered this blossoming city. Wadsworth combines big-city amenities with a charming downtown Main Street. A vibrant business community, a municipal airport, highly rated schools, municipally-owned electric, internet and cable services and a dedicated plan for economic revitalization and historic preservation make Wadsworth is a livable city on the rise. For more information, contact City of Wadsworth at 330.335.1521; wadsworthcity.com.
