Summit County, Ohio, situated in the northeastern part of the state, boasts a population exceeding 500,000 people. It is recognized for its urban and suburban offerings, including attractions like the Akron Zoo, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Nonetheless, the county also contends with its share of crime and violence. While certain neighborhoods in Summit County provide a safer environment, others carry a higher risk and are advised to be avoided by both residents and visitors. Here are the five neighborhoods with the highest crime rates in Summit County, determined by crime statistics and ratings from various sources.
Industrial Valley
Situated in Akron, Industrial Valley rests along the Cuyahoga River to the south of downtown and east of Interstate 77. This historic Akron neighborhood features numerous industrial buildings and bridges dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries.
It is home to notable companies like Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, and B.F. Goodrich Company. Nevertheless, Industrial Valley stands out as one of the most crime-ridden locales in Summit County, displaying a crime rate 60% higher than the city’s average and a striking 540% higher than the national average.
The neighborhood’s violent crime rate surpasses the national average by 316%, with an average of one crime occurring every 18 minutes. With a population density of approximately 1,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of falling victim to crime here could be as high as 1 in 11.
East Akron
East Akron, found to the east of downtown along East Market Street and Arlington Street, is a vibrant and densely populated Akron neighborhood with over 20,000 residents. It boasts landmarks like the Akron Art Museum, Akron Civic Theatre, and the University of Akron.
However, East Akron is also among the more perilous areas in Summit County, with a crime rate surpassing the national average by 38%. The neighborhood’s violent crime rate exceeds the national average by 76%, and on average, a crime takes place every 23 minutes. With a population density of around 5,000 individuals per square mile, the risk of becoming a victim of crime here may be as high as 1 in 20.
North Hill
North Hill, positioned north of downtown Akron along North Main Street and Cuyahoga Falls Avenue, was originally established in the late 19th century as a residential area for immigrants from various countries. It houses cultural and religious institutions like the North Hill Community House, North Hill Branch Library, and St. Anthony of Padua Church.
Despite its cultural significance, North Hill is also recognized as one of the riskier regions in Summit County, with a crime rate surpassing the national average by 35%. The neighborhood’s violent crime rate exceeds the national average by 71%, and a crime occurs approximately every 25 minutes.
With a population density of about 6,000 individuals per square mile, the likelihood of experiencing crime in this neighborhood might be as high as 1 in 21.
Kenmore
Located southwest of downtown Akron along Kenmore Boulevard and State Route 93, Kenmore was established in 1908 as an independent village before being annexed by Akron in 1928. It features a bustling commercial district with various shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
Nevertheless, Kenmore also grapples with a higher-than-average crime rate for Summit County, surpassing the national average by 32%. The violent crime rate in Kenmore is 67% higher than the national average, and a crime transpires roughly every 26 minutes.
With a population density of about 4,000 individuals per square mile, the potential of falling victim to crime in this neighborhood is as high as 1 in 22.
Goodyear Heights
Situated northeast of downtown Akron along Goodyear Boulevard and Newton Street, Goodyear Heights was originally established in the early 20th century as a planned community for workers of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company.
The neighborhood is also home to parks, schools, churches, and businesses. However, Goodyear Heights faces a higher-than-average crime rate for Summit County, surpassing the national average by 30%. The violent crime rate in Goodyear Heights is 63% higher than the national average, and a crime is reported approximately every 27 minutes.
With a population density of around 3,000 individuals per square mile, the potential of becoming a victim of crime in this neighborhood is as high as 1 in 23.
Conclusion
These five neighborhoods rank as the most dangerous in Summit County, Ohio, based on available data. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that crime can occur anywhere and at any time. Therefore, remaining vigilant, aware of one’s surroundings, and practicing safety measures are crucial.
Whether living in or visiting these areas, individuals are encouraged to take precautions like securing doors and windows, avoiding isolated places during nighttime hours, reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement, and considering the installation of a home security system if feasible.