Cost of Living in Summit County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Summit County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Summit County, Ohio
Summit bears Ohio's highest rent burden
Summit County renters spend 16.9% of household income on housing—the highest ratio among these eight counties and notably above Ohio's 15.6% state average. With a median rent of $998/month on a $71,016 median income, the county's urban-core pricing creates real affordability stress even for above-average earners.
Priciest county among peers
Summit's $998 median rent ranks well above Ohio's $873 state average, and its 16.9% rent-to-income ratio confirms it's among the state's most expensive housing markets. The premium reflects Summit's role as Ohio's second-largest metro area, home to Akron's corporate headquarters and regional job hub.
Summit commands region's highest rents
At $998/month, Summit's median rent far exceeds nearby Stark ($877), Trumbull ($783), and Tuscarawas ($876) counties, with only Union County ($1,188) commanding higher prices. This gap reflects Summit's urban density and concentration of professional jobs, which attract tenants willing to pay premium rates.
Urban costs carve into budgets
Summit renters earn $5,918/month and commit $998 to housing—16.9% of gross income—leaving less cushion for debt, savings, or emergencies than surrounding counties. Homeowners pay $1,099/month on $195,700 median homes, pricing out households earning under $65,000 from ownership without significant down payment assistance.
Summit rewards high earners seeking jobs
If your income exceeds $80,000 or you're relocating for a major corporate job, Summit's urban job market and amenities justify the premium rent. But families earning below $70,000 should explore Stark or Tuscarawas counties just 20–30 miles away for significantly lower housing costs.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Summit County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,657
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Summit County
Median home value is $195,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,562 vs. your max of $1,657.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.