ECONOMIC STABILITY
38% of community members identified economic issues and poverty as their leading concern.
why it matters
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Economic issues and poverty emerged as Greater Akron’s leading community concern: 38% of participants in Akron Community Foundation’s On the Table Greater Akron assessment identified it as a top issue.
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This concern is consistent with Summit County Public Health data showing persistent poverty in the county and substantially higher rates in the city of Akron, as well as ALICE findings that capture households earning above the federal poverty line but still unable to afford basic necessities.
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ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. The ALICE Threshold reflects the minimum income needed to afford basic household expenses and varies based on household size, location, and year.
by the numbers
Key realities shaping life in Greater Akron.
67,800
Residents in Summit County live below the poverty line.
52.6%
of senior renters spend 30% or more of income on rent.
1 in 5
Residents living in Akron live below the poverty line
2 in 5
of community members identified economic issues and poverty as their leading issue.
$33K
In 2026, a household of 4 living on $33,000 a year is at the federal poverty guideline.
1 in 5
children under the age of 18 live in households that's income is below poverty line.
All data presented was obtained from partners and publicly available sources across Greater Akron. Data reflects the most recent information available at the time of collection and may vary by reporting period, geography, or methodology.
prayer
Pray for families carrying financial pressure. Ask God to provide stability, wisdom, and support for families struggling to meet basic needs. Pray that financial hardship would not steal their hope or dignity.
Pray for pathways toward stability. Ask God to open doors to sustainable income, safe housing, reliable transportation, and opportunities that allow individuals and families to move forward.
Ask God where you can help. Pray for eyes to see the people behind the numbers. Ask God how you, your church, or your organization can help remove barriers and create opportunity.