Why Move to Dayton?

There’s a lot going on in Dayton these days.

Dayton, Ohio, could be the next great place to call home. Dayton offers numerous benefits for those considering living and buying a home in this vibrant city. Known for its rich history in aviation and innovation, Dayton provides a unique blend of cDayton’s location is strategically beneficial for travel and access to other major cities. It is approximately an hour drive from Cincinnati and Columbus, making it easy to explore these larger metropolitan areas while enjoying the lower cost of living that Dayton offers.

Economic Development

Ohio now ranks as one of the top states for economic development, according to a report by Area Development, a corporate site selection and facility planning resource. One of three winners of its Silver Shovel Award, Ohio has seen a surge in job creation and development efforts recently.

However, despite the statewide win, it was the Dayton area that helped clinch the title with major development projects including the creation of 800 jobs at both Proctor and Gamble and the Fuyao manufacturing plant. Other smaller scale projects yielded significant gains as well, including job expansion at Whirlpool and Speedway LLC.

Dayton is home to one of the largest military airbases, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which is also one of the region’s largest employers. Other top employers fall under the healthcare, education and municipal government sectors. Premier Health Partners employs more than 14,000 people, while other medical centers, including Dayton Children’s Medical Center and the Grandview Hospital, boast similar employment numbers. Dayton also fosters innovation through institutions like the University of Dayton Research Institute and the Wright State Research Institute, which contribute significantly to local and national advancements in science and technology.

Population Growth and Housing

The city is growing rapidly, driving demand for job creation and increased housing. Dayton’s recent rise in population is the result of a government program designed to attract immigrations to rejuvenate a population that’s declined nearly 40 percent since the 1960s. Thriving populations of Turks, Central Africans, Indians and Hispanics now call Dayton home. They help lure foreign investment in the area, as well as being a source of entrepreneurial growth.

With the increase in population has come an increase in housing developments. The housing market in Dayton, Ohio, is currently experiencing a positive trend with signs of growth and a moderate level of competitiveness. As of early 2024, the median home price in Dayton has been reported at around $120,000. This price is significantly lower than the national average, maintaining Dayton’s status as an affordable place to live.

Overall, Dayton offers an attractive housing market characterized by affordability, a moderate pace of sales, and a reasonable amount of negotiation space for buyers, making it a promising area for both residential living and investment opportunities.

Culture

But it’s not just the great economics of the region that should have you considering a move to Dayton, but the culture as well. Rich in almost every area from the historic to the patriotic and from sports to food, Dayton is a world saturated in recreational experiences.

Dayton is home to an array of museums and cultural institutions that celebrate its significant history and contributions to science and technology. The National Museum of the United States Air Force, located at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is the world’s largest and oldest military aviation museum and is a must-see attraction in the city. For art enthusiasts, the Dayton Art Institute offers an impressive collection that spans 5,000 years of art history. The city also fosters a strong performing arts scene, with the Victoria Theatre Association presenting a variety of performances including Broadway shows, music, and family-oriented programs.

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Meson, amazing Baklava from Azra’s on Second Street and Italian food that’s to die for when you stop by Roost. Go wild at one of Dayton’s many festivals including Urban Nights, a downtown street party; Celtic fest, a celebration of Celtic culture; and AleFest, a showcase of fine beers from around the world. Enjoy miles of bike trails totaling more than 300 miles of recreational bliss.

And don’t miss out on the sports culture in Dayton, which is incredibly loud and proud with teams ranging from the University of Dayton Flyers basketball team, the United Soccer League’s men’s professional soccer team the Dutch Lions and the Dayton Dragons, a minor-league affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Dayton provides plenty of green spaces and parks. The Five Rivers MetroParks system spans over 16,000 acres and offers trails, picnic areas, and scenic spots ideal for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. The Great Miami Riverway also offers miles of trails along the river, providing beautiful landscapes for outdoor sports and relaxation.

Dayton is particularly notable for its history as the birthplace of aviation; the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, called this city home, and their pioneering work led to Dayton being known as the “Birthplace of Aviation.” The city’s commitment to innovation continues today with significant developments in aerospace and engineering fields.

Looking to move to Dayton? You’re in luck — there are lots of great new homes to choose from.