photo credit: jmd41280

After Akron’s founding in 1825, it quickly began construction on its first canal. The canal opened in 1832, joining the Ohio and Cuyahoga rivers. Because of this canal it became the nation’s “fastest growing city.” Through the production and transport of the rubber, stoneware, sewer, tackle, farm equipment, and toy productions. The population increased 201.8% during the 1910’s from the influence of these businesses.

Akron possesses many nicknames because of these industries, the “Rubber City”, “City of Invention”, and “Rubber Capital of the World.” The name “Akron” comes from a Greek work meaning high.  This name was given to Akron because of the Portage Summit, which was the highest point on the Ohio & Erie Canal.

In 2008 and for the third time in its history, the City of Akron was named an “All-America City” by the National Civic League at their annual competition in Tampa, Florida.

As of the 2010 census, Akron’s population was 199,110, making it the fifth largest city in Ohio. When counting both the Summit and Portage counties (Akron’s metropolitan area) the population was 703,200.

Cost of outdoor advertising in Akron OH

What you need to know about outdoor advertising in Akron Ohio

Two highly traveled interstates meet in the Akron, Ohio market; I-76 & I-77. These travel routes see traffic from Cleveland, Youngstown, Pittsburgh & Columbus, as well as other major cities.

Recently the University of Akron sold the Rubber Bowl, 4 years after the completion of their new on campus field InfoCision Stadium. The sale of the stadium is linked to interest in the United States Football League (USFL). The new owners would like to see a USFL team come to the city of Akron. If successful, this could mean an increase in sports fans to the area which will likely lead to an abundance of sports advertising options.

Akron MSA

Akron, Ohio Metro Demographics

Population*: 199,110
White American persons: 62.2%
African American persons: 31.5%
Asian American persons: 2.1%
Latino or Hispanic: 2.1%
Native American: 0.2%
Median household income: $34,359

MSA information for Akron

Akron is part of the CBSA of Cleveland-Akron-Elryia. The Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) includes Summit and Portage counties. This MSA has an 18+ population of 550,775. When targeting this smaller MSA of the much larger Cleveland-Akron-Elryia CBSA, it is important to accurately define your desired coverage area and population figures. Securing the appropriate impression quantity will be directly affected by your defined market targets.

Events in Akron (Annual)

Sports in Akron

Businesses of Note: The city is home to two Fortune 500 companies. They are Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, and FirstEnergy. Other companies of note headquartered in Akron include Acme Fresh Market, Atlantic Foundry Company, Firestone Tire & Rubber Company, General Tire, Gojo Industries, Hygenic Corporation, O’Neil’s, Roadway Services, Saalfield Publishing, Seiberling Rubber Company, Sterling Jewelers, Strickland’s Frozen Custard, and Summit Racing Equipment.

Advertising & PR agencies: (AD) Keathley Advertising, Lunar Cow Design, Whitespace Creative, Clear Channel Outdoor, Hardman Group, Anthony Thomas Agency, Wjw Fox 8, 9Threads, JWT Action, Infocorr, quoBLUE, OhioAd.com, the art Factory, Inc., Array Creative, Aduro Communications LLC, Hitchcock Fleming & Associates 427 Design, Optic Lingo, Inc., SageRock (PR) Highland Public Relations, Singles Experience, DMG Communications, MACS Integrated Marketing Communications, Clayman Advertising, Inc., Maddox Marketing Group, Inc., DL Bennett Co., and Tennessee Williams Advertising.

Colleges

There is one public university located within the city limits: The University of Akron.

Akron’s must see destinations

For more information on Akron, please visit the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce website.

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