A method for the production of an acrylate by the neutralization reaction of acrylic acid and a basic substance, comprising sequentially (A) a step of supplying acrylic acid and said basic substance to water thereby subjecting them to a neutralization reaction while constantly retaining the neutralization ratio of acrylic acid within the neutralization reaction system in the range of 75 to 100 mol %, (B) a step of adjusting the neutralization ratio of acrylic acid within said neutralization reaction system in the range of 100.1 to 110 mol % by supplying said basic substance to said neutralization reaction system, (C) a step of retaining the neutralization ratio of acrylic acid within said neutralization reaction system in the range of 100.1 to 110 mol % for a period in the range of 1 to 120 minutes thereby allowing the neutralization reaction product to age, and (D) a step of adjusting the neutralization ratio of acrylic acid within said neutralization reaction system in the range of 20 to 100 mol % by supplying acrylic acid to said neutralization reaction system, and a method for the production of an acrylate-containing polymer using the acrylate.