Moving from Akron, OH to Dayton, OH
The 195 mi from Akron to Dayton translate to about 3h 45m behind the wheel through 1 state(s). Mid-range moves tend to cross at least one meaningful boundary β MSA, climate zone, or tax jurisdiction. The sections below set the two cities side by side on housing, income, cost of living, climate, and jobs.
195 mi Β· 3h 45m by car Β· OH
Distance & route
| Route through | OH |
|---|---|
| Primary highways | I 71, I 70, I 76 |
| Major cities en route | Cleveland, Columbus |
Route via OSRM driving profile. Actual time varies with traffic and season.
Cost of living
| Akron | Dayton | U.S. avg | |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items (RPP) | 93.37 | 92.694 | 100.0 |
| Rents | 96.448 | 95.388 | 100.0 |
| Goods | 93.628 | 93.628 | 100.0 |
| Services | 76.785 | 72.712 | 100.0 |
Dayton and Akron are close on the overall BEA RPP (93.37 vs 92.694); rent and services often drive the real difference.
Source: BEA Regional Price Parities (MSA-level Β· MSA-level); 2024.
Housing prices
Typical home values are comparable between the two cities on the latest Zillow ZHVI.
YoY change: Akron +2.2%, Dayton +1.4%. Snapshot: 2026-03. Data provided by Zillow.
Climate
| 1991β2020 normals | Akron | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Annual avg temperature | 52Β°F | 53Β°F |
| January avg low | 21Β°F | 20Β°F |
| July avg high | 85Β°F | 87Β°F |
| Annual snowfall | β | 12.3" |
| Annual precipitation | 32.5" | 41.7" |
Climate is roughly comparable on the annual mean β 52.3Β°F vs 53.3Β°F per NOAA 1991β2020 normals.
Significant snow at the destination: Dayton sees 12.3 in a year on NOAA normals β budget for winter gear and plowing.
Source: NOAA U.S. Climate Normals 1991β2020 (stations: AKRON FULTON INTL AP, OH US, DAYTON MCD, OH US).
Demographics
| ACS 5-year 2023 | Akron | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 189,526 | 136,741 |
| Median household income | $48,544 | $43,454 |
| Median age | 37.2 | 34.2 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 15.3% | 12.9% |
| Avg household size | 2.26 | 2.36 |
Income steps down 0.7%: $48,544 in Akron vs $43,454 in Dayton.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year 2023.
Jobs & wages
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Best time to move
Moving companies typically charge 20β30% more between Memorial Day and Labor Day (peak season). October through April offers the lowest rates and better mover availability.
To avoid mid-semester school transfers, most U.S. families schedule moves between mid-June and mid-August. Public school calendars typically run late August or early September through late May or early June.
Packing & arrival checklist
- Winter gear first: Dayton averages 12.3 in of snow per year on NOAA normals β pack a heavy coat, boots, and consider snow tires or chains before the first storm.
- Arrange utility connection (power, internet, gas, water) two weeks ahead of move-in.
- Update mailing address with USPS change-of-address within the first week post-move.
Frequently asked
How does household income compare in Akron vs Dayton?
Median household income on the Census ACS 5-year (2023) is $43,454 in Dayton vs $48,544 in Akron β a 10.5% lower figure. Compare this against the cost-of-living gap above when budgeting.
When is the best time to move from Akron to Dayton?
Moving companies usually charge 20β30% less between October and April (off-peak). Memorial Day through Labor Day is peak pricing. For a 195 mi drive, weather on the route matters too β see the timing section above for state-specific winter warnings.
How far is Dayton, OH from Akron, OH?
The driving distance is 195 mi and the route typically takes 3h 45m via I 71 and I 70. The trip crosses 1 state(s). Actual time varies with traffic and season.
How much do homes cost in Dayton compared to Akron?
Zillow ZHVI (2026-03) puts the typical home value at $136,592 in Dayton vs $137,894 in Akron β a 0.9% lower figure. Data provided by Zillow Research.
Is Dayton more expensive than Akron?
Based on BEA Regional Price Parities (2024), overall price level in Dayton is 0.7% lower than Akron (92.694 vs 93.37, U.S. average = 100). Rent and services typically carry most of this gap.
Plan the move
Estimate costs with our moving cost calculator, or see where else to move from Akron.
City profiles: Akron, OH Β· Dayton, OH.