SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Eviction-Friendly Apartments in Akron, OH

Last updated:

Renting After an Eviction in Akron

Akron offers a relatively affordable rental market compared to other Ohio metro areas, making it a viable option for renters with past evictions. The city has a growing number of landlords willing to work with tenants who can demonstrate financial stability. With average rents well below the national median, Akron provides opportunities for a fresh start, especially through private landlords and community housing programs.

Ohio Eviction Record Laws

Eviction Record Sealing
Not available. Ohio does not currently have a statewide law allowing eviction records to be sealed. However, dismissed eviction cases may be removed from court records upon request in some counties.
Screening Lookback Period
Most landlords in Akron review eviction history going back 7 years, though some check only the past 3-5 years.
Tenant Screening Restrictions
Ohio does not have statewide source-of-income discrimination protections. Akron does not have local ban-the-box ordinances for housing, so landlords may ask about eviction history on applications.

Housing Options in Akron After an Eviction

Likelihood indicates how likely each option is to accept applicants with eviction records.

TypeDescriptionLikelihood
Private individual landlordsMany Akron landlords manage their own properties and don't use formal screening services. Look for 'For Rent' signs in neighborhoods rather than online listings.high
LIHTC / tax credit apartmentsAkron has several Low-Income Housing Tax Credit properties that have more flexible screening criteria and focus on income eligibility over rental history.moderate
Second-chance apartment programsSome property management companies in the Akron area, such as those partnering with local nonprofits, offer second-chance leasing programs.moderate
Akron Metropolitan Housing AuthorityAMHA manages public housing and Section 8 vouchers. While eviction history is reviewed, it is not always an automatic disqualifier.low
Transitional housingPrograms through organizations like the Akron Urban League and ACCESS Shelter provide transitional housing for those working toward permanent placement.moderate
Room rentals and shared housingRenting a room in a shared house is common in Akron and typically involves less stringent background checks.high

Strategies for Renting with an Eviction in Akron

  1. 1.

    Target smaller landlords

    Independent landlords in Akron's neighborhoods like Ellet, Firestone Park, and Kenmore are more likely to consider applicants with past evictions on a case-by-case basis.

  2. 2.

    Offer a larger security deposit

    Offering 1.5 to 2 months' rent as a deposit can help reassure landlords concerned about eviction history.

  3. 3.

    Provide strong references

    Collect written references from previous landlords, employers, or community leaders who can vouch for your reliability.

  4. 4.

    Be upfront about your history

    Proactively disclosing your eviction and explaining the circumstances shows honesty and can build trust with potential landlords.

  5. 5.

    Get a co-signer

    Having a co-signer with good rental history and credit can significantly improve your chances of approval.

  6. 6.

    Explore rapid rehousing programs

    Akron's homeless prevention programs through the Continuum of Care can help cover deposits or first month's rent to help you secure housing.

Local Housing Resources in Akron

Organizations that can help you find housing after an eviction.

Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA)

Housing Authority

Manages public housing and Section 8 vouchers in the Akron area. Provides information on waiting lists and eligibility.

(330) 376-9595website100 W. Cedar St., Akron, OH 44307

Community Legal Aid Services

Legal Aid

Provides free legal assistance to low-income residents facing eviction or housing discrimination in Summit County.

(330) 535-4191website

United Way 211 Summit County

Helpline

Dial 211 for referrals to local housing assistance, emergency shelter, and rental assistance programs.

211website

ACCESS Shelter

Shelter / Housing Program

Provides emergency shelter and supportive services to help individuals and families transition to permanent housing.

(330) 615-0577

Tips for Renting with an Eviction in Akron

  • 1.Check Summit County court records to confirm what shows on your eviction history before applying.
  • 2.Save up for a larger deposit — many Akron landlords will overlook a past eviction if you can put down extra money upfront.
  • 3.Look for rentals in neighborhoods like Ellet, Goodyear Heights, and Firestone Park where independent landlords are common.
  • 4.Visit Community Legal Aid if you believe your eviction was filed improperly or if you were never properly served.
  • 5.Apply during slower rental months (November through February) when landlords may be more flexible.
  • 6.Consider subletting or room rentals as a stepping stone while rebuilding your rental history.
  • 7.Keep copies of pay stubs and bank statements ready to show landlords your ability to pay rent.
  • 8.Ask local churches and community organizations for landlord referral lists — many maintain informal networks.

Average Rent in Akron

$750

/month (1BR)

$950

/month (2BR)

With subsidized housing (LIHTC or Section 8), you typically pay 30% of your adjusted gross income — often significantly less than market rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent an apartment in Akron with an eviction on my record?
Yes. Many landlords in Akron, especially private owners, are willing to rent to people with past evictions. Offering a larger deposit and providing references can help your application.
How long does an eviction stay on my record in Ohio?
An eviction filing can remain on your court record indefinitely in Ohio, though most landlords and screening companies look back 7 years. Dismissed cases may be removable from court records.
Does Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority accept people with evictions?
AMHA reviews applications on a case-by-case basis. A past eviction does not automatically disqualify you, but recent evictions from public housing may be a barrier.
Are there free legal services for eviction issues in Akron?
Yes. Community Legal Aid Services provides free legal help to low-income Summit County residents facing eviction or dealing with housing disputes.
What neighborhoods in Akron are best for finding eviction-friendly rentals?
Neighborhoods like Ellet, Firestone Park, Goodyear Heights, and Kenmore have many private landlords who may be more flexible with rental history requirements.
Can I get my eviction sealed or expunged in Ohio?
Ohio does not currently have a broad eviction record sealing law. However, if your case was dismissed, you may be able to petition the court to have it removed from public records.

Related Resources

Related Resources on This Site

More for your state

Helpful guides

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Eviction laws, tenant screening practices, and housing availability change frequently. Always contact properties directly to confirm current policies. An eviction on your record does not automatically disqualify you from housing — many landlords evaluate applicants individually. For legal advice about your eviction record or tenant rights, contact a legal aid organization or a HUD-approved housing counselor.

Sources