Cities Near Akron Ohio 🗺️ | Explore Cities & Towns Near Akron Ohio

Planning a trip to the Akron area? Once known as the rubber capital of the world, with a thriving rubber industry and large manufacturing industry, Akron has reinvented itself. Factories have given way to lofts with an economy now centered around healthcare and education. While Akron has plenty to offer on its own, the cities near Akron, Ohio, also deserve attention!

Here’s a look at the cities and towns near Akron, Ohio, including what they’re known for and top attractions to check out while you’re in town.

Big Cities Near Akron, Ohio

The cities in the Akron, Ohio, metro area have a combined population of more than 700,000. About 185,000 of these people live in the city of Akron, OH, but another 470,000 live in just 12 cities within a 30-mile radius. Here are the 12 big cities near Akron, Ohio, with at least 20,000 residents.

Cuyahoga Falls – 4.8 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 51,114
• Summit County

Cuyahoga Falls, a vibrant city near Akron, Ohio, is known for its picturesque views of the Cuyahoga River and its outdoor recreation opportunities. The city boasts stunning parks, including the popular Gorge Metro Park, where visitors can hike along scenic trails and marvel at dramatic waterfalls.

The city also boasts a growing arts and entertainment scene with art galleries, boutiques, and community events. The Riverfront District is a major draw for locals with a lively mix of restaurants, shops, and seasonal events with views of the river. The district hosts many festivals throughout the year, and it has become a hub for local artists and musicians.

 

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Barberton – 7.6 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 25,191
• Summit County

Barberton, a charming suburb of Akron, Ohio, is best known for its rich industrial heritage and famous fried chicken, often called “Barberton Chicken.” The city’s history comes alive at the Barberton Historical Society and is complemented by its natural beauty, with Lake Anna Park being a favorite spot for locals and visitors. The park offers scenic walking paths, fishing, and hosts annual festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival. Barberton also boasts a vibrant arts community, with local theaters and galleries adding a creative touch to the town’s historic charm.

Stow – 7.7 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 34,483
• Summit County

Stow is one of many growing cities near Akron, Ohio. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive park system. With over a dozen parks, including Silver Springs Park, which features hiking trails, a dog park, and a scenic fishing lake, Stow is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also home to the Fox Den Golf Course, a popular spot for golfers of all skill levels. Stow’s community events, such as summer concerts and holiday festivals, bring residents and visitors together, creating a welcoming and vibrant small-town feel.

Green – 11.5 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 27,475
• Summit County

Green, Ohio, is a picturesque city located between Akron and Canton, offering convenient access to both destinations It’s known for its beautiful parks and strong sense of community. Boasting attractions like Portage Lakes State Park, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic picnic spots, Green is a haven for outdoor activities. The city is also home to the MAPS Air Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into aviation history with its collection of restored aircraft. Green’s blend of natural beauty, rich history, and thriving local businesses make it a standout destination in Northeast Ohio.

Want to stay close to the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK)? Green is the closest Akron suburb to Akron-Canton Airport, which is within the city limits.

Kent – 12.3 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 28,215
• Portage County

Kent, Ohio, famously home to Kent State University, is renowned for its lively arts scene and vibrant downtown, making it one of the best cities near Akron, Ohio. The city blends its academic energy with a rich cultural history, offering visitors a mix of trendy cafes, local boutiques, and historic landmarks. Franklin Mills Riveredge Park provides a peaceful escape along the Cuyahoga River, perfect for kayaking and nature walks. Kent is also known for its thriving music scene, with venues like The Kent Stage hosting live performances that draw music lovers from across the region.

Wadsworth – 13.8 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 24,007
• Medina County

Wadsworth, Ohio, is one of the many small cities in Akron. This inner suburb boasts a strong community spirit and historic downtown filled with unique shops and eateries. The city is home to the popular Blue Tip Festival, an annual summer event featuring a lively parade, carnival rides, and fireworks. Memorial Park offers a serene setting with walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds, making it a favorite for families. Wadsworth’s dedication to preserving its local heritage is also evident in attractions like the Wadsworth Public Library and the town’s historic clock tower, which adds to its small-town charm with modern appeal.

Hudson – 14.8 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 23,110
• Summit County

Hudson, Ohio, is a picturesque city known for its historic charm, elegant architecture, and vibrant town square. Its downtown area, lined with unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, creates a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. The city is home to attractions like the Hudson Library & Historical Society, which serves as a cultural hub, and the scenic Hudson Springs Park, offering trails, fishing, and a serene lake. With excellent schools and regular community events, this small city in Northeast Ohio is a great choice for families who want to stay close to the big city.

Lake Township – 17.6 Miles From Akron

• Population: 30,324
• Stark County

Lake Township, located in Summit County, Ohio, offers quiet, rural charm and a close-knit environment. Nestled between Akron and Canton, the township offers a peaceful escape while still being close to urban amenities. Nature lovers enjoy Wingfoot Lake State Park, which offers fishing, boating, and scenic picnic spots, making it a favorite outdoor destination. The area is also home to the Goodyear Blimp Hangar, a fascinating landmark that draws aviation enthusiasts. With its mix of natural beauty and unique local attractions, Lake Township is a serene place to explore in nature or enjoy quiet, small-town living at its best.

Massillon – 22.9 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 32,146
• Stark County

Massillon is one of the top cities near Akron, Ohio, for sports fans to discover. Massillon, Ohio, is a historic city known for its deep football tradition and vibrant local culture. Often called “Tiger Town,” Massillon takes pride in its high school football team and the Pro Football Hall of Fame located nearby in Canton. The city’s downtown is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Massillon Museum, which showcases local art and history. Sippo Lake Park, with its scenic trails and fishing spots, offers outdoor recreation for nature lovers.

 

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Medina – 23.0 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 26,094
• Medina County

Like many cities near Akron, Ohio, Medina offers a great mix of history, family-friendly attractions, and natural beauty. It’s known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and historic town square. The Medina Public Square Historic District is the heart of the city, featuring unique shops, cafes, and the iconic Medina Gazebo, which hosts community events throughout the year. The city is also home to Castle Noel, a whimsical Christmas-themed museum that delights visitors of all ages. For nature lovers, Buckeye Woods Park offers scenic trails and a peaceful lake for outdoor recreation.

Canton – 23.8 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 70,872
• Stark County

Canton is one of the largest cities near Akron, Ohio. It’s the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a must-visit for sports enthusiasts to connect with the history of football. The city’s rich industrial heritage and vibrant arts scene are on display at the Canton Museum of Art and the historic Palace Theatre. Canton also offers outdoor attractions like McKinley Park, which surrounds the impressive McKinley National Memorial honoring the 25th U.S. president. With its blend of sports, culture, and history, Canton is a dynamic city that attracts visitors from across the region.

Brunswick – 27.0 Miles From Akron

• Municipality: City
• Population: 35,246
• Medina County

Brunswick, Ohio, is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong community spirit. Located between Cleveland and Akron, Brunswick offers convenient access to both urban centers while maintaining its suburban charm. The city boasts several parks, with Brunswick Lake Park being a favorite for its scenic walking paths, fishing, and picnic areas. Brunswick is also home to Mapleside Farms, a popular attraction featuring seasonal apple picking, festivals, and stunning views of the countryside. With its mix of outdoor recreation and local events, Brunswick is a welcoming and lively destination in Northeast Ohio.

Map of Cities Near Akron, Ohio

Other Cities Near Akron, Ohio

Looking for more places to discover in the area? Tallmadge is one of the closest small cities near Akron, Ohio, with a prime location just east of downtown Akron. Tallmadge has a picturesque town center and small-town atmosphere that makes it a popular choice for families.

Streetsboro is another fun spot to explore. It’s a good choice for commuters with a great location along major highways and between Cleveland and Akron, OH. It’s home to the highly rated Boulder Creek Golf Club and minutes from Aurora Farms Premium Outlets, a large outlet mall.

Looking for a more rural lifestyle and plenty of space? Bath Township is one of the best townships to the west of Akron with large homes, great options for education, and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s a gateway to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visit in the fall for breathtaking foliage and a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Be sure to enjoy a relaxing hike to Brandywine Falls!

That’s just the beginning of what you’ll find as you explore the smaller cities near Akron, Ohio. Below are the townships, cities, and villages near Akron with a population of 10,000 to 20,000.

 

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Small Townships & Towns Near Akron, Ohio

There are dozens of other small townships and cities near Akron, Ohio where you can get past the traffic and hustle and bustle of city life in favor of a quiet life in the country. Here are nearby places with a population of at least 2,500 but under 10,000.

Major Cities Near Akron

Planning a road trip? Akron is almost equidistant from Dayton, Ohio and Buffalo, New York, and the cities of Pittsburg, Erie, Columbus, and Toledo. Here are major cities near Akron, Ohio, with a population of at least 100,000.

• Cleveland, OH – 40 miles
• Pittsburgh, PA – 115 miles
• Toledo, OH – 120 miles
• Columbus, OH – 125 miles
• Erie, PA – 125 miles
• Warren, MI – 160 miles
• Ann Arbor, MI – 160 miles
• Detroit, MI – 175 miles
• Dayton, OH – 190 miles
• Buffalo, NY – 190 miles
• Fort Wayne, IN – 210 miles
• Cincinnati, OH – 230 miles
• Grand Rapids, MI – 270 miles
• Kalamazoo, MI – 290 miles

Akron Area Cities FAQs

What Is the Closest City to Akron, Ohio?

Cuyahoga Falls is the closest city in Akron. It’s less than 5 miles from downtown Akron.

What Major Cities Are Near Akron?

Major cities near Akron, Ohio, include Cleveland (40 miles), Pittsburgh (115 miles), Toledo (120 miles), Columbus (125 miles), and Erie (125 miles).

What Cities Are 1 Hour From Akron?

Cities near Akron, Ohio within an hour’s drive include Cleveland and Lakewood to the north; Medina, Elyria, and Lorain to the west; Canton to the south; Youngstown to the east; and Mentor to the northeast.

What Cities Are In Northeast Ohio?

Northeast Ohio is home to several metropolitan areas:

• Cleveland – The largest city in the region
• Akron – A former industrial hub, now a center for education, healthcare, and innovation
• Canton – Known for the Pro Football Hall of Fame
• Youngstown – Historically a steel industry city, now reinventing itself with technology and education sectors. The city of Warren is part of the metro area.
• Sandusky – Home to Cedar Point, one of the world’s top amusement parks, and several water parks
• Mansfield – Famous for Ohio State Reformatory, a castle-like former prison featured in The Shawshank Redemption

What Is the Difference Between a City, Village, and Township in Ohio?

In Ohio, a municipality under 5,000 residents is a village. It becomes a city once it reaches a population of 5,000 or more. A village needs at least 1,600 people to incorporate. A township is a type of local municipality that provides services to areas outside of incorporated villages and cities.

Are you ready to move to the Rubber City or one of the nearby cities near Akron, Ohio? Krupp Moving & Storage is here to help. Enjoy a stress-free moving experience with the best Akron movers! Call our team today at (330) 359-1491 to get started with a free, personalized moving estimate.