Akron, Ohio
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| Akron, Ohio | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Name | Akron |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | The Rubber Capital of the World |
| Motto | "The Heart of It All" |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Ohio |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Summit |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1825 |
| Established title2 | Incorporated (city) |
| Established date2 | 1865 |
| Government type | Mayor–council |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Shammas Malik (D) |
| Area total km2 | 161.54 |
| Area total sq mi | 62.37 |
| Area land km2 | 160.47 |
| Area land sq mi | 61.96 |
| Area water km2 | 1.07 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.41 |
| Elevation m | 295 |
| Elevation ft | 968 |
| Population total | 190,469 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 1186.9 |
| Population density sq mi | 3074.2 |
| Timezone | EST |
| Utc offset | −5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | −4 |
| Coordinates | 41, 04, 23, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 44301–44321, 44325, 44326, 44328, 44333, 44334, 44372, 44396, 44398 |
| Area code | 330, 234 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 39-01000 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 1064305 |
| Website | akronohio.gov |
Akron, Ohio. A major city in Summit County, it is historically renowned as the global center of the tire and rubber industry. Situated on the Ohio and Erie Canal, its growth was propelled by industrial innovation, becoming home to corporate giants like Goodyear and Firestone. Today, it is a hub for polymer science and higher education, anchored by the University of Akron.
History
The area was originally part of the Connecticut Western Reserve and was settled in 1825, coinciding with the construction of the Ohio and Erie Canal, which established it as a portage point. The city's name derives from the Greek word for "high point." Industrial growth accelerated after Benjamin Franklin Goodrich relocated his rubber factory here in 1871, taking advantage of the region's water power. The early 20th century saw explosive growth with the rise of the automotive industry, as local firms like Goodyear, Firestone, General Tire, and B.F. Goodrich dominated global tire manufacturing. This era included significant labor history, such as the 1936 Akron rubber strike led by the United Rubber Workers. Post-World War II deindustrialization challenged the city, but it transitioned towards advanced polymer research and development.
Geography
Located in northeastern Ohio, the city lies within the Glaciated Allegheny Plateau region. The Little Cuyahoga River flows through the city, and its topography is marked by rolling hills. A significant portion of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park lies to the west, bordering the city. The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail runs through this area. Akron is part of the Akron metropolitan area and lies approximately 30 miles south of Lake Erie. The city's elevation varies considerably, with its highest point near Firestone Park.
Demographics
According to the 2020 United States Census, the city had a population of 190,469. The racial makeup is diverse, with significant African American and White communities, along with growing populations of Hispanic and Asian residents. The city is part of the larger Cleveland–Akron–Canton combined statistical area. Major institutions influencing the population include the University of Akron, the Summit County government, and the Akron Public Schools district. Historical migration patterns were heavily influenced by the Great Migration and industrial job opportunities.
Economy
Historically dominated by the rubber industry, the economy has diversified into advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and education. It remains a global center for polymer science and engineering, supported by entities like the University of Akron's College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering and the National Polymer Innovation Center. Major employers include the Cleveland Clinic's Akron General Medical Center, Summa Health System, and Goodyear. The Akron–Canton Airport supports regional commerce. Innovation hubs like the Bounce Innovation Hub foster startup growth in sectors like biomedical engineering and advanced materials.
Culture and attractions
The city is home to cultural institutions such as the Akron Art Museum, known for its contemporary collection, and the historic Akron Civic Theatre. The annual National Hamburger Festival celebrates its claimed invention of the hamburger. Music is showcased at venues like Blossom Music Center, the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra. Sports history includes the All-American Soap Box Derby and minor-league baseball with the Akron RubberDucks. The Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, a former estate of Goodyear co-founder Frank Seiberling, is a notable historic site. The University of Akron's E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall hosts Broadway tours and concerts.
Government
Akron operates under a mayor–council government system. The city's mayor, currently Shammas Malik, serves as the chief executive, while the Akron City Council is the legislative body. The city is part of Ohio's 13th congressional district and is represented in the Ohio Senate and Ohio House of Representatives. Key municipal services are managed by departments such as the Akron Police Department and the Akron Fire Department. The city government operates from the Akron Municipal Building downtown. Voter engagement is influenced by local issues and the political landscape of Summit County.
Category:Akron, Ohio Category:Cities in Ohio Category:Summit County, Ohio Category:1825 establishments in Ohio