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.
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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.
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Summit Lake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Summit Lake, Akron sell after 55 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 $75,000, up 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Move-in ready investment in Summit Lake! This fully updated colonial offers major systems already replaced — new furnace, A/C, hot water tank, electrical wiring, roof, and windows — meaning low capital expenditures for years to come. New LVP flooring runs throughout the open living room, dining room, and kitchen, which features a gas stove, refrigerator, and laminate countertops. A main-level
This large single-family home with 3-bedrooms (possibly 4), 2- full baths, and 2 kitchens has served as a 2-unit in the past. It also features an attached 2-car garage, fenced back yard, enclosed front porch, fireplace, custom woodwork, and finished attic. Being sold in as-is condition.
A lake a block away. The Towpath around the corner. A garage out back. And a price under $150K. Yep—this one checks some boxes.Welcome to 503 Rothrock Ave, a refreshed Kenmore home with a long list of updates and a location that's hard to beat at this price point.Summit Lake is less than a block away, and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is right there for walking, running and biking.
Welcome home! This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home has been fully renovated and is move-in ready. The home features beautifully updated flooring, a refreshed kitchen and bathroom, new light fixtures, and fresh paint throughout. Each bedroom offers spacious room to relax and make your own, with new carpeting adding warmth and comfort. Outside, you’ll appreciate the newly paved driveway, new
Marshall StephensKeller Williams Chervenic Rlty
$62,500
Land
8,746 Sq Ft Lot
15 Year Tax Abatement offered by City Of Akron. Natural Gas, Water, electricity, sewer available from City Of Akron. Prime opportunity to build your dream home in one of Akron’s most notable neighborhoods. 15 Year Tax Abatement offered by City Of Akron. 2 Building lots available or combine. Unique lots with views over Merriman Valley. City Utilities. Possible walkout LL. Some trees but not
This two-family property offers excellent income potential. Lower Level: Features two bedrooms and one bathroom, currently occupied by a long-term tenant paying $725 per month. Upper Level: Comprises one bedroom and one bathroom, recently vacated and ready for renting. This unit has been freshly painted and new carpet installed. Recent upgrades include a new complete tear-off roof, enhancing the
Attention Investors! Turnkey investment opportunity with an AMHA tenant already in place, generating $1,206per month in rental income. The tenant pays all utilities, making this a low-maintenance addition to your investmentportfolio. This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath Colonial offers beautiful views of Summit Lake and has been updated withfresh paint and brand-new flooring throughout the
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make this home yours! This beautiful home boasts 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with ample space for storage throughout. This thoughtfully laid out floor plan features a living room, dining area off of the kitchen and a highly sought after and comfortable den area. This generous space could make for a perfect hobby room, guest space or reading nook and so
Opportunity awaits with this 2-bedroom, 1-bath colonial located in Akron's Summit Lake neighborhood. Built in 1916, this home offers approximately 702 square feet of living space and is an excellent option for investors, renovators, or buyers looking to build equity through updates. The functional floor plan provides comfortable living space, while the manageable lot offers low-maintenance
Add this one to your portfolio to help build up reserves! New tenant in a month-to-month lease agreement of $1000.00 per month, and the tenant pays ALL UTILITIES! No tour without an accepted offer. Do not disturb the tenant. No sign in the yard!
Property Id: 1516500 Welcome to 190 W Miller Ave! This spacious 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom duplex in Akron is the perfect place to call home. It features the top two floors of a duplex, access to the basement, and a large yard. The unit includes a brand new refrigerator, oven, washer/dryer hookups, and off-street parking. Optional Ring doorbell camera for additional security. No
Charming three-bedroom, one-bath colonial home situated on a spacious lot with plenty of privacy, featuring a convenient first-floor bedroom. This home offers a comfortable and functional layout. The vacant lots create an open, country-like feel while still being conveniently located near the expressway for an easy commute. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby recreational lake, which
Karen Bollins- WeisnerBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Simon & Salhany Realty
5 minutes from Akron University. Bright and light 2 bedrooms Upper unit. Separate entrance off your deck. Newly remodeled extra large rooms and large bay window in living room. Refrigerator and gas stove included. Water, sewer and trash covered. Move in fees include full first month's rent, Security Deposit and one time $275 admin fee. All County Generations Property Management residents are
Check out this 2 bed 1 bath home from rent! All tenants and vouchers welcome. Additionally, we provide a Resident Benefits Package (RBP) that will provide renters' insurance, provide identify protection, provide credit-building with positive rental payments, and much more for a rate of $50 a month. Screening guidance includes 3:1 debt to income rental amount (excluding Section 8), a review of
Joshua Cowan1st Cavalry Homes Real Estate & Property Mgmt.
Welcome to 280 Lake St. Conveniently located to the university, downtown, bus lines, and shopping this is perfectly located. Inside there are 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a great bonus room. Additionally, we provide a Resident Benefits Package (RBP) that will provide renters' insurance, provide identify protection, provide credit-building with positive rental payments, and much more for a rate of
Enjoy being close to everything Low to no credit score accepted for review. Welcome to 1314 Lakeshore Blvd in Akron, OH a well-located residential property offering comfortable living near local conveniences, parks, and neighborhood amenities. This property features practical 1-bedroom, 1-bath units that are ideal for residents looking for an affordable and manageable place to call home. The
Charming 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Unit in a Triplex – Move-In Ready & Section 8 Approved! Looking for a cozy and affordable place to call home? This 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit in a well-maintained triplex is Section 8 approved and ready for you to move in today! Tenants pay gas, electric, and contribute a small amount towards water, sewer, and trash monthly.We believe in providing housing
Welcome to your new home! This charming duplex offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, located in a vibrant community with easy access to amenities. Step onto the welcoming front porch and envision yourself enjoying the neighborhood breeze as you sip your morning coffee or unwind in the evening. Inside, you'll discover a spacious layout featuring three bedrooms and one bath,
**2 Bed, 1 Bath Duplex for Rent** Spacious one-level, side-by-side duplex featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Enjoy convenient single-floor living in a great location. Tenant is responsible for all utilities.. Pets may be considered. Contact us today to schedule a showing!
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