Dayton, OH
Population 136,741 · Ohio
About Dayton, OH
Dayton is a major city located in Ohio with a population of 136,741 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,454 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Dayton features a median home value of $93,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dayton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $866, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 69,640 total housing units, 48% are owner-occupied (27,917 units) and 52% are renter-occupied (30,036 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dayton shows an unemployment rate of 9.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dayton have an average one-way commute time of 20.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.7% of Dayton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.5% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 5.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Dayton Ranks in Ohio
Cost of Living in Dayton, OH
Compared to national averages, Dayton has a median household income of $43,454 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $93,200, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $866 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Dayton's income is 39% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 47% below the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Dayton, OH?
Dayton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $93,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $866/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,454) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Dayton provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Dayton has a population of 136,741 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Dayton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Dayton
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akron | 189,526 | $48,544 | $111,200 | Compare |
| Parma | 80,131 | $67,425 | $157,600 | Compare |
| Canton | 70,105 | $39,754 | $94,400 | Compare |
| Lorain | 65,207 | $45,799 | $123,500 | Compare |
| Hamilton | 63,124 | $54,293 | $152,300 | Compare |
| Youngstown | 59,605 | $34,746 | $58,400 | Compare |
| Springfield | 58,410 | $45,883 | $107,600 | Compare |
| Kettering | 57,442 | $71,619 | $192,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Ohio
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Dayton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dayton
What is the population of Dayton, OH?
The population of Dayton, OH is 136,741 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Ohio.
What is the median household income in Dayton?
The median household income in Dayton, OH is $43,454 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dayton?
The median home value in Dayton, OH is $93,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Dayton?
The median monthly rent in Dayton, OH is $866, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dayton?
The unemployment rate in Dayton, OH is 9.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Dayton, OH a good place to live?
Dayton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 136,741 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Dayton, OH?
20.7% of residents in Dayton aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Dayton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dayton, OH: median home value is $93,200 (62% below national), median rent is $866/month, and median household income is $43,454. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dayton?
The poverty rate in Dayton, OH is 27.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Dayton, OH?
Dayton's population is 2.5% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 37.8% two or more races. 5.0% of residents are foreign-born.