Where To Live in Dayton: A Neighborhood Breakdown for Renters

Dayton’s cost of living runs roughly 29% below the national average, and its neighborhoods span a wide range that nearly any renter can find a comfortable fit. Whether you’re browsing apartments in Dayton, OH, for the first time or relocating from out of state, knowing what each area actually offers makes all the difference.

Oakwood: Historic Streets and Top-Rated Schools

Oakwood sits about 4 miles south of downtown (a 10-to-15-minute drive) with tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and an accessible layout that’s rare in the Dayton suburbs. Oakwood City School District ranks among Ohio’s best, with Oakwood High School placing 6th statewide. The commercial stretch along Far Hills Avenue puts coffee shops, boutiques, and dining within easy walking distance of most residential streets. Element Oakwood puts renters right in the middle of it all, with 1- and 2-bedroom apartments near Old River Park and direct access to the best of the neighborhood.

A Good Fit If You Are

• Prioritizing School Quality for Your Family
• Looking for Accessible Errands and a Real Community Feel
• Open to a Premium Location With Historic Features

Beavercreek: Suburban Convenience With Strong Schools

Beavercreek lines I-675 on Dayton’s east side, roughly 12–15 miles from downtown (about a 20–25-minute drive). Its proximity to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base shapes the community, bringing in military families, DoD civilians, and aerospace professionals, while The Greene Town Center and Mall at Fairfield Commons handle shopping and dining. Beavercreek Community Schools rank among Greene County’s best. Mallard Landing offers 1- and 2-bedroom apartments and 3-bedroom townhomes off I-675, close to Russ Nature Park and The Mall at Fairfield Commons.

A Good Fit If You Are

• Near Wright-Patterson AFB (5–7 Miles / 10–15 Minutes)
• Looking for Top-Rated Public Schools in a Calm, Suburban Setting
• Seeking Suburban Amenities Without City-Level Rent
• A Student, or Staff at the University of Dayton (Approx. 2 to 3 Miles Away)
• Working in Healthcare at Premier Health’s Miami Valley Hospital (Approx. 2 Miles) or Kettering Health Main Campus (Approx. 3 Miles)

Fairborn: Apartment Rentals With Small-Town Energy

At the junction of I-675 and I-70, Fairborn sits roughly 14–16 miles from downtown Dayton (about 20–25 minutes) and borders both Wright-Patterson AFB and Wright State University. Downtown Fairborn has an accessible main street lined with local restaurants and shops. Brinley Place delivers luxury 2-bedroom apartments in Fairborn at a price point well below comparable options elsewhere in the metro, with easy access to the AFB’s main gate and a short drive to Wright State.

A Good Fit If You Are

• Seeking Exceptional Value While Staying Close to Major Employers
• Located Within 5–7 Miles of Wright-Patterson AFB (10–15 Minutes)
• A Student or Faculty Member at Wright State University (4–5 Miles / 9 Minutes)

Centerville: Luxury Living With Suburban Comfort

Centerville sits just south of Dayton and offers a comfortable, well-rounded lifestyle: scenic trails, community parks, and a straightforward commute to downtown (roughly 12 to 15 miles / 20 to 25 minutes). Just down the road is Uptown Centerville, a walkable historic district known for its independent restaurants, shops, and year-round events. HILLS Properties brings luxury living to this corridor through two communities. Allure Apartments features 1- and 2-bedroom homes with a resort-style pool off Alex Bell Road. The Reserve at Miller Farm adds 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom options and townhomes off I-675, close to Uptown Centerville and Fraze Pavilion.

A Good Fit If You Are

• Looking for Luxury Apartment Living in an Established Suburb
• Interested in Outdoor Recreation, Trails, and Community Parks
• Commuting Within the Dayton Metro (Downtown Approx. 12 to 15 Miles)
• Drawn to Uptown Centerville’s Walkable Restaurants, Shops, and Year-Round Events

Not sure where to start? Our guide to things to do in Dayton, OH, can help you get a feel for each area before you tour. When you’re ready, browse HILLS Properties apartments in Ohio to compare floor plans and availability across all four neighborhoods.