Living in Dayton
Dayton is the best of the American Midwest: a small city surrounded by a bustling metro area and a beautiful system of parks and rivers; a virtual center of U.S. commerce with a long history of innovation; and an open, friendly community that welcomes makers, entrepreneurs and tradespeople. Life in Dayton is a unique blend of opportunity, vitality and Midwestern flavor.
SEE WHY STUDENTS FROM AROUND THE WORLD CHOOSE TO STUDY IN DAYTON
Fast Facts
U.S. State
Ohio
Population
141,527
Average Temp
-3°C in January, 22°C in June, 12°C in October
City Size
56.5 square miles/146.33km
Demographics
White, 57.1%; African-American, 42.9%;
Hispanic, 3%; Asian, .9%
Key Industries
Aerospace and Aviation
A Warm Welcome
Named one of the Most Affordable Cities in the U.S. by Forbes and a “Best Place to Live, 2016” by U.S. News & World Report, Dayton has a lot to offer to students and young professionals. With Dayton's Midwestern charm, it's no wonder The Princeton Review lists the university in its Top 10 for “Students Love These Colleges.” Whether you're meeting friends after class or exploring the city on a sunny afternoon, you're going to love living in Dayton.
Dayton opens its doors to new residents from around the world. The city launched Welcome Dayton in 2011, declaring itself immigrant-friendly and establishing a formal plan to integrate foreign-born residents into the community. Welcome Dayton has received national recognition for its work from Time Magazine, Forbes and The New York Times.
The city also extends its warm welcome to entrepreneurs, makers, and innovators. Starting with the Wright brothers’ invention of the first airplane, Dayton has a long history of supporting new businesses and technologies. Dayton is the proud home of Proto BuildBar, a casual maker space and creative center, as well as the National UAS Training and Certification Center, a facility for the advancement and research of unmanned aerial systems.
INTERESTING NEIGHBORHOODS
Named one of the Most Affordable Cities in the U.S. by Forbes and a Best Place to Live 2016 by U.S. News, Dayton has a lot to offer to students and young professionals.
Oregon Historic District
This artsy 12-block area is the local destination for galleries, unique shops and lots of charming Victorian architecture. Stop by Lily’s Bistro for brunch, or stretch your legs (and arms!) at Urban Krag, an indoor rock climbing gym.
Grafton Hill
Culturally diverse and friendly, Grafton Hill is a good place to meet friends at a pub or while away the hours at a coffee house. The Dayton Art Institute, free to students, sits on the edge of Grafton Hill near the Miami River and hosts concerts, classes and events like the annual Art Ball and Oktoberfest.
Brown Street
The University of Dayton extends beyond the lush green of campus. A favorite of students and locals alike, nearby Brown Street boasts coffee bars, quick food options, shopping and dining. Explore small cafés with locally sourced veggies, or dinner in a lofty, modern space.
THE OUTDOOR CAPITAL OF THE MIDWEST
Climate and landscape blend perfectly in Dayton. We are proud to be the home of the nation’s largest paved trail network, perfect for hiking and biking. The convergence of five rivers in the downtown area offers opportunities for water sports and exploring. Five Rivers MetroParks maintains 18 parks and 11 conservation areas across the metro region.
SHOPPING & DINING
With Dayton's Midwestern charm, it's no wonder The Princeton Review named the university #4 Students Love These Colleges. Whether you're meeting friends after class or exploring the city on a sunny afternoon, enjoy your share of dining and shopping.
The Greene
A 10-minute drive from campus, this outdoor shopping mall holds over 100 upscale retailers and restaurants. Various local events are also held in this vibrant community-centered area. Grab a bite to eat, listen to some outdoor live music and pick up some college-life essentials before heading back to campus.
Coco’s Bistro
Traditional, American comfort food meets modern, in this hip restaurant that’s fun for a crowd. Enjoy everything from artisanal pizza to vegan pho during weeknights, weekends and anytime in between. Finish the night with the oven-baked peach cobbler for dessert to share.
Butter Cafe
With breakfast served well beyond morning hours, wake up at noon and still enjoy traditional American favorites. Spicy egg scramble, fresh donuts and more await you in these cozy, yellow walls. Grab a coffee on the way out, and you’re ready to conquer your day.
READY TO GET OUT AND EXPLORE?
Dayton is easily accessible. The city has a convenient public bus system, and the Dayton International Airport and Greyhound bus terminal link you to adventures across the U.S.