Thriving local park and quick access to downtown Akron
The Summit Lake community started when the local lake became part of the Ohio Canal in the 1800s. The neighborhood then became an amusement park called Summit Beach. After the park closed in the 1950s, many thought the city of Akron abandoned the community. "The neighborhood was severely underserved for a long time," says Akron's Planning and Urban Development director, Kyle Julien. "It went through a downward spiral as the city developed." In 2018, Akron's city government created a planning program called Our Summit Lake to coordinate efforts to improve the community. With this program, the city turned the once-contaminated Summit Lake into a thriving local park. The program is also looking to revamp local housing with federal aid and collaborations with local organizations. Until these new developments reach the building phase, residents rely on the neighborhood's easy access to downtown Akron in the north, two ramps to the interstate, and one of the city's newest metro parks.
Residents of Summit Lake have easy access to major highways.
These children in Summit Lake explore the Summit Lake Nature Center.
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Summit Lake Nature Center popular with residents
At the center of the community is its namesake lake. From the early 1900s until just a few years ago, the water was considered too contaminated for recreation, but a 2018 ecological survey deemed it safe. With the lake now clean, a group called Our Summit Lake partnered with other programs, such as the Akron Civic Commons, to establish a park on the shore. Afterward, Summit County Metroparks built the Summit Lake Nature Center. "We initially had a temporary center to draw attention to the lake," says Stephanie Walton, chief of marketing and communications for Summit Metro Parks. "The locals loved the center so much that we eventually put in a permanent version." Operating out of the lake's old pump house, the nature center offers educational resources. Visitors come to the park to fish, kayak and hike the 20-mile Towpath Trail. Other green spaces around the lake include the Penn Soccer Field and the George Sisler Baseball Field.
The Summit Lake Nature Center is located in this former pump house buiding.
Play a game of baseball at Summit Lake Park.
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Summit Lake Choice Neighborhoods Plan to create new housing
Duplexes and single-family houses fill the neighborhood's gridded residential blocks. These duplexes can have anywhere between five and eight bedrooms and cost between $70,000 and $235,000. The single-family homes tend to have between three and four bedrooms, with prices ranging from $30,000 to $125,000. Both housing types mainly consist of Colonial Revivals built in the early 1900s on yards smaller than 5,000 square feet. Our Summit Lake coordinates the affordable housing development program, The Summit Lake Choice Neighborhoods Plan. "The program is still in its planning stage, but we're collaborating with multiple organizations to create new housing, refurbish older homes and give vacant land to developers," says Julien. Collaborators include the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority and the Summit Land Bank. Julien stresses a desire to ensure developments operate ethically. "Feedback from residents revealed a lot of concern about being priced out, so we're taking that into consideration as we make policy," says Julien.
Duplex homes make up some of the new housing available in Summit Lake.
New Colonial Style homes can be found in the neighborhood at Summit Lake.
Colonial style homes stand out in Summit Lake.
Many older homes in Summit Lake are opportunities for redevelopment.
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Three miles from downtown Akron
The neighborhood has three main thoroughfares: Kenmore Boulevard, Lake Shore Boulevard and Lake Shore Road. All three roads connect the community's residential areas and lead to the city's essential roadways, such as South Main Street, for a 3-mile drive to downtown. Interstate 76 runs along the north side and has two ramps in the community, providing highway access to Youngtown in the east. Akron METRO offers public transportation, with bus route eight running through Lakeshore Boulevard and part of Kenmore Boulevard.
A view of Summit Lake and downtown Akron from Kenmore.
A resident of Summit Lake takes advantage of public transportation.
Summit Lake residents have easy access to I-77 and nearby downtown Akron.
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Groceries at Little Mike's Market, Aldi or Save A Lot
Summit Lake has several shopping options, but many visit neighboring communities to dine out. The local grocery stores are Save A Lot and an Aldi on the east side. Other local stores include the Great Start Thriftstore and the Little Mike's Market convenience store, most of which are in the neighborhood's center. There's also the Peter Maurin Center, a local soup kitchen next to the Save A Lot. The nearest restaurant is the Friendly Tavern between Summit Lake and Kenmore. The bar has pool tables and an outdoor space with picnic seating. Other dining options include a few fast-food chains and bars in neighboring communities. The nearest Farmer's Market is Lemley's Farm Market, a 4-mile drive east. Summit Mall is 10 miles away in Fairlawn, but it's still the closest mall.
Residents of Summit Lake shop at the Save A-Lot food store.
Visit the local Aldi's for your grocery needs in Summit Lake.
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High schoolers in new building at Garfield Community Learning Center
The nearest public schools are in neighboring communities. McEbright Community Learning Center, the closest elementary school, is less than 2 miles east in South Akron. The nearest middle school is Innes Community Learning Center in Kenmore, less than a 3-mile drive west. In South Akron, Garfield Community Learning Center is less than 3 miles away. Once known as Garfield High School, the school reopened in a new building in 2022 with its new name. McEbright and Garfield score a C with Niche, while Innes gets a C-minus.
Students excel at the new Kenmore Garfield CLC.
McEbright Elementary School offers a dynamic learning environment.
Students are challenged to excel at Innes Community Learning Center.
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Summit Lake Community Center hosts local concert series
The Summit Lake Community Center is next to the nature center and serves as the neighborhood event space. Residents can schedule everything from classes to meetings to performances year-round. One of the center's most significant events is the Summer Concert Series, where local bands perform at the start of the month from June till September. 2023's performers included jazz musician Erin Nicole Neal and the Red Light Roxy jazz band.
The Summit Lake Community Center In Summit Lake offers a variety of programs for residents.
Summit Lake Community Center features an indoor basketball court and community spaces.
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Akron Police protect and serve the citizens of Summit Lake.
Local housing authority addressing crime through equity programs
Summit Lake's overall crime score on the CAP index is seven out of 10. The score is above the national average of four and the city average of six. Violent crime is responsible for this high score. Organizations, including the AMHA, are implementing equity programs such as educational and financial aid to reduce violent crime in the area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Summit Lake
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
7
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Summit Lake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Summit Lake, Akron sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Summit Lake, Akron over the last 12 months is $75,400, up 26% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into this beautifully updated 4-6 bedroom home close to downtown. With nearly 1,500 sq ft of living space, this home combines charm and modern updates. Enjoy peace of mind with brand new paint, flooring, updated kitchen and bath. The location couldn't be better-minutes from the highway. This home is truly a move in ready and waiting for you.
Whether you're looking for a fantastic investment opportunity or your new "home sweet home," this majorly renovated, income-producing Colonial within minutes of several amenities, food spots, and entertainment locations that Akron has to offer is the perfect place for you! The completely open main floor consists of an expansive living room, charming dining area, and a fully renovated eat-in
Check out this Lovely, Move-In Ready, Updated Colonial that is welcoming with bright walls, knotty pine LVP flooring and LED lights. The kitchen is equipped with new cabinets, butcher block countertops, newer appliances and subway tile backsplash. Features a first floor bedroom and full bathroom with two nicely sized bedrooms on the second floor. The backyard is large enough to make your dream
Welcome to this vacant charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home nestled in a quiet, well-established neighborhood. Conveniently located just minutes from the freeway and local shops, this property offers both comfort and accessibility. Whether you’re looking to add to your investment portfolio or purchase your first rental, this home presents a great opportunity for steady cash flow. With its desirable
Ryan SackmanKeller Williams Greater Cleveland Northeast
Welcome to 839 Kenyon Street in Akron! This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers character, charm, and great potential. Step inside to find high ceilings and beautifully painted natural woodwork throughout the main level. The oversized Living Room and Dining Room provide plenty of space for entertaining or relaxing. A convenient full bath is located just off the Dining Room. Upstairs, you’ll
Versatile multifamily opportunity on a spacious four-parcel footprint in Akron with strong income potential. This unique property features a front duplex plus a detached single-family residence, offering multiple income streams and flexible use options. The front duplex includes, First-floor unit: 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Upper unit (2nd & 3rd floors): 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. In the rear of the
Shoshana SocherKeller Williams Greater Metropolitan
Expand your portfolio with this tenant occupied 3 bedroom, 1 bath home already generating steady rental income! A finished attic offers the possibility for a 4th bedroom, creating future upside and added value. The property also includes a 2 car garage and a convenient location near downtown Akron, Cleveland Clinic, and the University of Akron, making it appealing to a wide tenant pool. With a
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-family home in the heart of Akron's charming Downtown neighborhood! Perfectly suited for a homeowner seeking a fresh start or an investor looking for a turnkey cash-flowing asset, this property has been completely updated with impeccable attention to detail. Step inside to discover a bright and modern interior featuring fresh
Beautifully Renovated 3-Story Colonial – Perfect for a New Homeowner or Savvy Investor! This move-in ready 4-bedroom colonial blends classic charm with modern updates—ideal for comfortable living or strong rental income potential. A brand-new roof (2025) adds lasting value and peace of mind. Step up to the inviting covered front porch, perfect for morning coffee or relaxing evenings. Inside,
Welcome to this charming 5-bedroom, 2 full bath home nestled in a quiet, well-established neighborhood. Conveniently located just minutes from the freeway and local shops, this property offers both comfort and accessibility. With vinyl siding, vinyl windows and a newer roof, this home provides maintenance free comfort. Whether you’re looking to add to your investment portfolio or purchase your
Ryan SackmanKeller Williams Greater Cleveland Northeast
Investor Opportunity bring your vision!! Property needs full rehab. No Kitchen or bathroom. Recommend touring property during daylight hours as there is no electricity. All utilities are currently off. Just blocks away from downtown Akron at the heart of local amenities and vibrant city life. Property is close to major highway, a fire station at end of street, grocery store and Akron University.
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Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
