Where to Live in Akron Ohio Without a Car

There's a lot to love about Akron, Ohio, including its diverse economy and culture. Yet, this city, which is the fifth largest in the state of Ohio, isn't exactly considered a walkable community. The heart of Akron, right off I-77, is a downtown commercial district. This is where the largest businesses call home, where the Summit County government seat is, and where the entertainment district is located. Though there are some homes along the outskirts of the city itself, most of Akron's best neighborhoods are located a few miles away. When considering where to live in Akron Ohio, it helps to know which of these outskirt neighborhoods and Akron suburbs are the best, most walkable communities if you don't have a car. The good news is that if you work in the downtown area of Akron where homes are limited, you can still get into town quite easily from these communities. The METRO Regional Transit Authority runs throughout the area. This commuter bus system has stops throughout most of Akron proper and the surrounding areas. It operates out of South Broadway Street, but runs to all Portage and Summit County major roads and cities, giving your neighborhood easy access to the heart of Akron. Some of the best walkable communities and neighborhoods in Akron include the following.

1. Highland Square

Highland Square is a fantastic example of a walkable community. It's also one of the most eclectic areas of the city with a cool, urban vibe and young professional lifestyle present. As such, you'll find some fantastic mid- to high-rise buildings here with recently remodeled apartments and lofts. Some of these buildings date back to the 1920's and 1930's, when Akron was much more industrialized. Today, these are very much modernized. They are located near West Market Street, the main thoroughfare in the city and densely populated. The Highland Theatre is the prominent fixture here and is one of the most historic parts of the area. Highland Square has a strong LGBT community, a progressive outlook, and a community-focused design. Trendy cafes and shops, along with some of the most upscale restaurants in the heart of Akron are located here.

2. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is in the northeastern portion of Akron and offers a vibrant lifestyle. It is mostly a commercial area south of Tallmadge Avenue, though there are numerous single family and multi-family homes located along this area as well. Retail is strong in this area, especially along Home Ave. and Howe Road. It's fairly easy to get around Chapel Hill, especially through the area of Route 8. This area is also a fantastic place to call home. You are within a few minutes of most of what Akron has to offer, on a bus route as well. Chapel Hill has several apartment and condo developments here, but also a few residential communities a few blocks from the commercial area. That means you can easily walk to shops and restaurants, get to and from the bus line, and even find your amenities - such as parks and libraries - within a few minutes of your home.

3. Elizabeth Park Valley

Akron's Elizabeth Park Valley has a few key reasons to call it home. First, it is located along the south by I-76, giving you easy access to Akron and, if needed, the Cleveland area. You are also within walking distance of Downtown Akron. For those planning to work in the expansive Summa Health Center and St. Thomas Hospital area, the regions' largest employer, this is the ideal neighborhood to call home. You'll find that you are near to the shops and restaurants along Route 8, but also near public transportation to take you into the more diverse areas of the city. Elizabeth Park Valley also has several parks with walking trails and play areas for children. Though it is not a large area, it does offer several single family homes, duplexes, and apartment and townhome style properties for you to choose from. It's a highly desirable area to call home and a very community-oriented place.

4. Middlebury

Middlebury provides you with easy access into Akron. While it is not a large commercial district, it does have a small, community feel to it. You can easily walk from your single family home to your bank, the library, or to the park. There are several shopping areas and restaurants here, but you won't feel like this is an over-the-top trendy location. Rather, Middlebury, which is one of the oldest communities in the Akron area, is more traditional in both its layout and its features. It's close to Summa Akron City Hospital and Route 8. There are bus routes into most of the Akron area, though, which makes living and working here easy to do.

5. Downtown Akron

Downtown Akron is quite spread out, but the METRO RTA does run from one side of town to the next. For young professionals working in these businesses living here is vital. You will not find single family homes here. Rather, there are condos, multi-use buildings, and some apartments. Upscale restaurants and shops are in this area, some of which have condos and lofts over them. For those attending the University of Akron or working along Martin Luther King Blvd. the downtown area can be a good overall choice. The homes in this area tend to be in the northeastern portion of the city, but you will find some options available throughout Downtown Akron. And, buying near a bus line makes it fairly easy to get around. It's also a great option for bike riders since the city does have designated bike paths alongside pedestrian walkways throughout much of the downtown area.