Introduction

Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture, provided you choose the right property in the right location. A good rental property typically features strong demand, steady rental income, and the potential for property value appreciation. Location is crucial because it influences rental demand, property values, and the overall return on investment (ROI). Stark County, OH, offers various neighborhoods and areas, each with unique attributes that can cater to different investment strategies. In this guide, we will explore the best neighborhoods in Stark County, grading them on various factors to help you make an informed decision.

Best Neighborhoods and Areas in Stark County, OH

1. Canton

Grades:

• Convenience: A
• Tourist Attractions: B+
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: A
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A-
• X-Factor: A

Convenience: Canton is the largest city in Stark County and serves as the county seat. It boasts excellent infrastructure, including major highways, public transportation, and essential services. Residents have easy access to schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.

Tourist Attractions: Canton is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a significant draw for sports enthusiasts. The city also features the Canton Classic Car Museum and the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, adding to its appeal as a tourist destination.

Things to Do: There are numerous parks, restaurants, and entertainment venues in Canton. The Canton Palace Theatre offers cultural events and performances, while local parks provide outdoor recreational opportunities.

Average Home Prices: Canton’s average home prices are moderate, making it an attractive option for investors. The median home price is around $150,000, which is affordable compared to national averages.

Return on Investment: With its strong rental demand and reasonable home prices, Canton offers a solid return on investment. Rental properties in this area often yield high rental incomes and property value appreciation.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Canton is well-connected to major highways, making it convenient for professionals who travel frequently. The city is also close to Akron-Canton Airport, which provides additional travel convenience.

X-Factor: Canton’s rich history and cultural significance, combined with its status as a sports hub, make it a unique and desirable location for both residents and investors.

2. North Canton

Grades:

• Convenience: B+
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B+
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
• X-Factor: B+

Convenience: North Canton offers a suburban feel with easy access to urban amenities. It has excellent schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities, making it a convenient place to live.

Tourist Attractions: While North Canton may not have as many tourist attractions as Canton, it is close to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and other nearby attractions, enhancing its appeal.

Things to Do: Residents can enjoy various parks, golf courses, and community events. The North Canton Community Center provides numerous recreational activities and programs.

Average Home Prices: The median home price in North Canton is slightly higher than in Canton, around $180,000. However, the area offers a good balance of affordability and quality of life.

Return on Investment: North Canton provides a stable rental market with a good potential for appreciation. Investors can expect consistent rental income and a favorable ROI.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Proximity to major highways and Akron-Canton Airport makes North Canton an ideal location for professionals who travel frequently for work.

X-Factor: The family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and strong community spirit make North Canton a desirable place for families and investors alike.

3. Massillon

Grades:

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: B-
• Things to Do: B-
• Average Home Prices: A-
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Massillon is a smaller city with a mix of urban and suburban elements. It offers convenient access to daily amenities, including schools, shopping, and healthcare services.

Tourist Attractions: Massillon has a rich history with attractions such as the Massillon Museum and the Jackson Bog State Nature Preserve. While it may not draw as many tourists as Canton, it still has local charm.

Things to Do: Residents can enjoy local parks, historical sites, and community events. The Massillon Recreation Center offers a variety of sports and fitness activities.

Average Home Prices: Massillon’s home prices are among the most affordable in Stark County, with a median price of around $130,000. This affordability makes it an attractive option for investors looking for budget-friendly properties.

Return on Investment: The lower home prices in Massillon can translate to higher rental yields. The area offers a strong ROI potential, especially for those looking for affordable investment options.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Massillon is connected to major highways, providing decent accessibility for work-related travel. However, it is slightly farther from the airport compared to Canton and North Canton.

X-Factor: Massillon’s affordability, combined with its historical charm and community-oriented atmosphere, makes it a unique and appealing choice for investors.

4. Alliance

Grades:

• Convenience: B-
• Tourist Attractions: C+
• Things to Do: B-
• Average Home Prices: B+
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B-
• X-Factor: B-

Convenience: Alliance offers a blend of urban and suburban living with essential amenities readily available. It has a good selection of schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities.

Tourist Attractions: While Alliance may not have many major tourist attractions, it features notable sites like Glamorgan Castle and Silver Park, which add to its local appeal.

Things to Do: Residents can enjoy various recreational activities, including parks, community events, and local eateries. The Alliance Farmers' Market is a popular spot for fresh produce and local goods.

Average Home Prices: The median home price in Alliance is around $140,000, offering affordability and investment potential. This makes it a good option for budget-conscious investors.

Return on Investment: Alliance provides a stable rental market with good potential for rental income. The affordability of homes helps enhance ROI for investors.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Alliance is somewhat removed from major highways and the airport, making it less ideal for frequent travelers. However, it still offers decent accessibility to nearby cities.

X-Factor: Alliance’s small-town charm, affordability, and community-oriented atmosphere make it a unique and desirable location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

5. Louisville

Grades:

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: C+
• Things to Do: B
• Average Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: B
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: Louisville provides a suburban environment with essential amenities such as schools, shopping, and healthcare services. It offers a balance between urban convenience and suburban tranquility.

Tourist Attractions: Louisville has fewer tourist attractions but is close to Canton and North Canton, which increases its overall appeal. Local parks and historical sites add to its charm.

Things to Do: Residents can enjoy local parks, community events, and recreational facilities. The Louisville Public Library and community center offer various programs and activities.

Average Home Prices: The median home price in Louisville is around $160,000, offering a good balance between affordability and quality of life.

Return on Investment: Louisville provides a stable rental market with potential for appreciation. The affordability and suburban appeal make it an attractive investment option.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: Louisville is well-connected to major highways, making it convenient for professionals who travel for work. It is also reasonably close to the airport.

X-Factor: Louisville’s suburban charm, community spirit, and balanced lifestyle make it a desirable location for families and investors looking for a stable rental market.

Conclusion

Investing in rental properties in Stark County, OH, offers a range of opportunities, each with its unique benefits. From the vibrant city life of Canton to the suburban tranquility of North Canton, Massillon, Alliance, and Louisville, there is something for every investor. By carefully considering the convenience, tourist attractions, things to do, average home prices, return on investment, proximity to work-related travel, and the unique X-factors of each area, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your investment goals.