Overview:
Akron is an important industrial center and a major hub of the US rubber industry. The corporate headquarters of major companies such as Goodyear, GenCorp, and Uniroyal-Goodrich provide a significant number of jobs in the area. While population growth has slowed in recent decades, Akron remains one of Ohio’s largest cities and a significant part of the Cleveland-Akron-Canton metropolitan area. Akron boasts several attractions, including the Akron Art Museum, Akron Fossils & Science Center, and Akron Zoo, as well as numerous venues for musical and theatrical performances.
History of Akron:
Akron began as a simple settlement for Ohio Canal workers in 1811, but by the mid-1800s, it had grown into a thriving village with a prosperous stoneware, sewer pipe, fishing, and farming equipment industry. Important historical moments occurred in Akron between 1850 and 1900, including Sojourner Truth’s famous speech at an Akron convention in 1851 and the founding of the University of Akron (originally Buchtel College) in 1870. The modern toy industry was born in Akron in the 1880s, with local inventions such as clay marbles, rubber ducks, dolls, and rubber balloons. Akron’s economy evolved with the arrival of major rubber companies such as Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co., Goodrich Corp., General Tire, and Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. By the late 1800s, Akron had become the Rubber Capital of the World, and the population surged with workers from across the country. Today, Akron’s economy has diversified with the decline in demand for rubber, and health care, manufacturing, chemicals, retail, and polymers play essential roles.
Akron’s Neighborhoods:
Barberton is a suburb of Akron, where many residents commute to work in the city. During the 1800s, it earned the nickname “Magic City” due to its rapidly growing population. Munroe Falls is a picturesque part of the city with a friendly community and a small-town atmosphere. Cuyahoga Falls is home to several natural attractions, including the Mary Campbell Cave. Fairlawn is a small but active community with a variety of local programs, including nature education, group hikes, and children’s science programs.
Schools in Akron:
The Akron City School District manages all public education in the city, from preschool to high school. There are also several charter and private schools available, including faith-based schools or schools offering specialized study tracks in STEM or the arts. The University of Akron is the largest campus in the city.
Moving to Akron Resources:
Akron’s main electricity provider is Ohio Edison, and the City of Akron manages water and sewer services. Trash and recyclables are collected curbside, with pickup schedules determined by location. The METRO RTA provides public transit in the Akron area, with a few routes into nearby cities. Akron receives significant snowfall in the winter months, and the city provides snow removal services when the snow depth reaches six inches or more.
Akron Housing:
Akron’s median home and rent prices are below the national average and fall just below Ohio’s averages. Affordable options are available for renters and homeowners alike, with a variety of styles and home sizes in Akron’s diverse neighborhoods.
