Cleveland Boomers Are Moving Under An Hour Away To One Of America's Most Affordable Cities For Retirees

Cleveland rocks, but not necessarily for retirees. Major cities can be a challenge to retire in for a number of reasons, and so many of Cleveland's seniors have felt an uncontrollable urge to move to smaller cities and towns in their golden years. They're not always looking far, though. One of the most popular places to retire to from Cleveland is another more affordable Ohio city just 40 miles away: Akron, the Rubber Capital of the World.

U-Haul's Midyear Migration report for 2026 tells the tale. Akron ranks third on the list of cities Cleveland seniors are flocking to. U-Haul looked at one-way transactions between areas between July 2025 and June 2026. This data was broken down along generational lines, finding that Cleveland Boomers are flexing their freedom of choice by moving to Akron in inordinate numbers. While the most popular cities receiving Cleveland boomers are Cincinnati and Chicago, Akron's low cost of living and proximity play a major role in that decision. 

Akron is close enough to the Cleveland area that relocators won't have to fully disconnect from their friends and routines. But there's more happening here. Akron has become a desirable place to retire for a number of reasons, but the top check in its favor is the most basic and the most pressing: cost. Life doesn't get much cheaper than in Akron, as it's one of the most affordable and artsy cities in Ohio.

The biggest reason to retire in Akron is its affordability. In 2025, it was called the cheapest city in the U.S. to retire in. GoBankingRates crunched the numbers, and the results were clear: the dollar goes further in Akron than in any other city of its size. The study analyzed how much a retiree would need to earn per month to cover basic living expenses — think housing costs, health care, groceries, utilities, and the like. Akron's monthly expenditures totaled just under $1,700. It also boasts a sizable retirement population, with over 15% of its residents being 65 or over. That affordability, combined with the ample social opportunities presented by such a large senior population, gave Akron a livability score of 81, placing it at the top of the list.

There are other perks beyond low costs to retiring in Akron, as the under-the-radar Ohio city is full of urban and outdoor activities. It's right next door to Ohio's only national park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which is roughly 7 miles outside of Akron. The Ohio gem with wetland trails, fishing, and wildlife boasts such senior-friendly activities as the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, passing through the idyllic natural landscapes and offering themed excursions. For easily accessible attractions, the 60-foot Brandywine Falls has a viewing boardwalk, and the quaint, historic Everett Covered Bridge is just a short walk from the trailhead. The Cuyahoga River also flows through Akron, letting seniors stay active through fishing and boating. 

Akron also has an active arts and entertainment scene. The Akron Art Museum offers senior discounts, and with the Akron Symphony Orchestra, Cleveland retirees won't have to say goodbye to classical music. Plus, the Akron Zoo is the first Ohio zoo to receive an Age-Friendly Seal of Approval from the Better Business Bureau, offering senior discounts and accessible facilities. Akron might be a smaller city, but there's still so much for retirees to do.