Akron sees slight population increase, Cleveland population drops

The city of Akron has seen its first population increase in years, according to the latest estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The data shows an estimated population increase of 135 from 2016 to 2017, bringing the population in the Rubber City to 197,846.

Summit and Cuyahoga Counties as a whole have seen a decline since 2010, although there was a slight uptick from 2016 to 2017 for Summit County. The city of Wadsworth alone had an increase of about 370 residents and just under 1,800 since 2010.

Cleveland's population dropped about 2,000 from 2016 to 2017, bringing its total to 385,525.

Akron city officials have discussed plans to encourage growth in the city, implementing a goal to bring back the city's population to 250,000 by the year 2050. That would mean Akron would have to add more than 50,000 residents in 32 years.

There are a number of city programs that have moved forward in the last year, including Akron's residential 15-year tax abatement program. It means residents can build new homes or renovate others without having to immediately pay a higher tax bill.

The population numbers released Thursday are estimated figures, but the upcoming census in 2020 would help to provide a better understanding of the growth and decline in areas.