A new national analysis from Upgraded Points (a financial consumer website) shows the cost of “living comfortably” has jumped across the U.S. in recent years, and Akron is no exception. Using the 50/30/20 budgeting rule and current cost-of-living data, researchers calculated how much income residents need to cover basic necessities, enjoy some discretionary spending, and still save for the future.

The study found Akron ranks as the 10th most affordable midsize metro when it comes to achieving a “comfortable” lifestyle. “Comfortable” in this case means having enough income to pay for essentials like housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, plus a cushion for wants and long-term financial goals.

Key Findings for Akron

Single adult: Needs $83,025/year to live comfortably (10th lowest among midsize U.S. metros)

2 adults, no children: Need $113,501/year combined
2 adults + 1 child: Need $170,854/year
2 adults + 2 children: Need $206,762/year
2 adults + 3 children: Need $241,228/year

How Akron’s Incomes Measure Up

Median personal income: $43,121
Median household income: $94,172

That means many Akron residents are earning well below what the analysis considers a “comfortable” income — highlighting a significant gap between local wages and the rising cost of everyday living.

How Akron Compares Nationally

Across the U.S., the income required for comfortable living is even higher:

Single adult: $106,745
2 adults, no children: $138,643
2 parents + 3 children: Up to $278,252

How the Study Was Done
Researchers relied on:

– The Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator (housing, food, childcare, transportation, healthcare, taxes)
– U.S. Census Bureau’s 2024 ACS 1-Year Estimates (median personal and household income)
– The 50/30/20 budget rule (to define what “comfortable” looks like)
– All figures were adjusted to 2025 dollars.

You can read the full report from Upgraded Points — “Comfortable Living Salary in U.S. Cities” by clicking HERE.