Dayton, Ohio, Named Top 10 Most Affordable City 2021 Metro Rankings
21 Jan 2022
News
Business Facilities’ 2021 Metro Rankings Report placed Dayton, Ohio, as #5 on its Top Ten Most Affordable Cities. Greater affordability translates into wages going farther for necessities and amenities alike such as housing, groceries, and entertainment. Residents can enjoy an overall greater quality of life.
“Affordability is a huge selling point for the Dayton Region, but we always position Dayton for its amenities,” said Erik Collins, Director Montgomery County Community & Economic Development. “Dayton isn’t just affordable, but it provides a great value. We have excellent parks and recreation, a thriving arts community, and a growing research and development environment. With these amenities, we have a small-town feel at a low price.”
The Dayton Region has many features that are not found in similar-sized metro areas. “We have the largest network of paved trails in the country, which is great for runners, bikers, and hikers,” said Collins. “We have an incredibly popular Minor League Baseball team in the Dayton Dragons. We have the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company and The Schuster Center, which hosts major off-Broadway productions like Wicked and Hamilton. We have a diverse population that brings an incredible variety of food and culture to this area. If there is something you want to do, chances are you can do it in the Dayton Region.”
Dayton’s housing trends are a major component of its affordability. According to a recent report by online real estate brokerage, Redfin, Dayton offers the lowest housing costs among Ohio’s three other largest metros: Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. This affordability is a major incentive attracting workers and companies to the region, but it is the system of support and services that makes the Dayton Region a “top of list” choice for relocation.
“What’s different about the Dayton Region, and the state of Ohio overall, is that so many people, departments, and organizations work together with each business looking to locate here,” said Collins. “It’s that collaboration, from the state level down to the local level, that sets our region and our state apart in economic development. We want companies to come here, and we can provide a lot of value, whether that’s through incentives, helping to find workforce, or helping cut through the red tape.”
“Locating to the Dayton Region is a great choice for any business,” said Collins. “Our region continues to grow, and many organizations work collaboratively on developing our workforce. When you bring your business to Dayton, you are moving within an hour drive of 42 higher education institutions. Those universities, the counties, and the cities and villages all work together to ensure our residents get training for a high-demand career.”
“Bottom line: the Dayton Region is a great place to live right now,” said Collins. “Our economy is growing. We are seeing investment from national and international companies, and we have a flourishing community for entrepreneurs. There is a lot of opportunity in the Dayton Region.”
Visit selectmcohio.com for more information on services, initiatives, and grants. Follow Montgomery County on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.