Now serving Dayton, Ohio and surrounding areas
A Forbes Advisory study recently highlighted Dayton as the 4th best city for young professionals in the United States. Also from Southwest Ohio, Cincinnati was ranked #1 and Columbus rounded out the top 5.
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With so many great things about the area, L4W is proud to call Dayton home after a career in the U.S. Air Force. Powered to keep making the region better for ourselves and our kids, we work tirelessly to improve our leaders and organizations.
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Living and Working in Dayton–Kettering OH
Overview
The Dayton–Kettering OH metro area, a region steeped in innovation and rich history, extends over an area of about 1,900 square miles. It is home to around 800,000 residents, making it a significant urban hub in Western Ohio. This metro area predominantly encompasses Montgomery, Greene, and Miami counties, with Dayton, Kettering, and Beavercreek as the major cities.
Montgomery County, with Dayton as its largest city, serves as the economic and cultural center of the metro area. Dayton, historically known as the birthplace of aviation, continues to be a hub for aerospace and technology. Kettering, in the same county, contributes to the region’s diverse economy with a blend of residential, business, and recreational facilities. Beavercreek, located in Greene County, adds to the area’s technological and defense industry presence.
Geography and Economy
Geographically, the Dayton–Kettering OH metro area is situated in the Miami Valley region of Ohio, characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain. This landscape supports a range of agricultural activities, and urban development, and provides ample green spaces for outdoor recreation.
The economy of this metro area is diverse, with a strong emphasis on aerospace, defense, healthcare, and education. Major employers include Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the largest and most technologically advanced bases in the Air Force, and Premier Health Partners. The region benefits from a significant presence of research and development in aerospace and engineering, largely due to the influence of Wright-Patterson AFB and the National Air and Space Intelligence Center.
Education plays a critical role in the metro area, with institutions like the University of Dayton, Wright State University, and Sinclair Community College offering a variety of academic programs. These institutions contribute significantly to workforce development and innovation, particularly in engineering and technology fields.
Culture, Sports, and Attractions
Culturally, the area boasts a rich heritage and a thriving arts scene. Dayton’s history in aviation is celebrated at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the world’s largest and oldest military aviation museum. The region’s arts and culture are showcased in venues such as the Schuster Performing Arts Center and the Dayton Art Institute. The area hosts numerous cultural events and festivals, reflecting its community spirit and diverse cultural background.
Sports in the metro area include a mix of college and minor league teams. The University of Dayton Flyers and the Wright State Raiders compete in NCAA Division I athletics, enjoying strong local support. The Dayton Dragons, a minor league baseball team, offer family-friendly sports entertainment.
Major attractions in the metro area include the Carillon Historical Park, which offers a glimpse into Dayton’s historical and technological contributions. The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery provides interactive science exhibits for children and families. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Five Rivers MetroParks system offers extensive parks and recreational facilities.