Akron vs Columbus: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Akron, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Akron, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $121,188▲ | $109,949 |
| Hourly Rate | $58.27▲ | $52.86 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,010▲ | $66,079 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,998 | $87,421▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $130,878 | $144,294▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,602 | $173,913▲ |
| Total Employed | 50 | 300▲ |
Verdict
Akron and Columbus are closely matched on overall actuary compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Akron and Columbus is $11,239 (10.22%). Akron's median is -9.67% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Akron spans $93,592,Columbus spans $107,834. Columbus has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced actuarys.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Akron ($129,793 effective) pays 12.70% more than Columbus ($115,167 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Akron if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($121,188/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,793)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($173,913)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Akron grew 44.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Akron, OH
$81,140 (2019) → $117,430 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$93,480 (2019) → $106,540 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Akron or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Akron and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Akron to Columbus as a actuary?
What do entry-level actuarys earn in Akron vs Columbus?
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Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov