Hillcrest offers a calm, residential setting with older homes
Up in northwest Dayton, Hillcrest offers a relaxed, residential atmosphere shaped by older homes, tree-lined streets and rolling hills. The neighborhood is divided into subdivisions, each with its own personality and community association, creating a strong sense of identity and neighborly connection. Daily life is generally quiet, with schools and only a handful of businesses nearby. Most people commute downtown to work, shop or dine, keeping Hillcrest a calm place to come home to after a busy day.
What to expect in each of Hillcrest's subdivisions
Hillcrest has four small subdivisions. These include:
Hillview, which has homes from the 1950s and quick access to green spaces
Rocky Hills, known for its rolling hills and tree-lined streets
Rock N Woods, which has lush yards, mature trees and a park-like atmosphere
Sandalwood Park, known for its historic 1920s homes and Sandalwood Playground
No matter what subdivision you choose, you'll find friendly faces and active community associations. "You know your neighbors, and everyone stays really engaged and involved," says Deborah Schafer, former president of the Sandalwood Park Neighborhood Association.
Early 1900s homes vary in condition and price points
Classic home styles range from cozy bungalows and Cape Cods to Victorians, Dutch Colonials and American Foursquares. "The houses are pretty large compared to more modern homes," says Curtis Babio, Realtor with ManCo Property Services. "Homes from the early and mid-1900s usually have much higher square footage." Occasionally, you'll see raised ranches, cottages or multifamily properties.
The condition of homes varies. "These homes are pretty old, and some haven't been as well-maintained as they probably should have been, but the potential is there due to the solid bare bones of the properties," Babio says. While some homes may need major reinvestment, others have been well-preserved by long-term owners. "There aren't a lot of places where you'll find such well-maintained homes for under $100,000," Schafer says. "People buy these old homes and take such good care of them."
In general, home prices range from the $30,000s to the upper $100,000s. Babio says the city often offers tax incentives to investors, and homebuyers can be eligible for down payment assistance, grants and special financing.
Cozy bungalows and cottages are common around here.
Rows of classic homes line the Hillcrest neighborhood.
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Kids can walk to Edwin Joel Brown Middle School inside the neighborhood.
Kids can walk or bike to two Dayton schools nearby
Local students typically attend Dayton Public Schools. Many kids go to Edwin Joel Brown Middle School, which is inside the neighborhood. Kids can also walk or bike to Fairview Elementary School in neighboring Fairview.
Commuters reach downtown easily and pass key employers on the way
Many people commute to Downtown Dayton for work. You can easily catch the city bus or drive down Main Street, a straight shot into the city center. The neighborhood also isn't far from major highways, like Interstate 75. On the way to downtown, you'll pass Ketting Health Dayton, a major employer and the main healthcare facility for northwest Dayton.
Find dining options along main roads and in downtown Dayton
The neighborhood doesn't have many businesses, aside from a few fast-casual restaurants and mini marts along Main Street and Catalpa Drive. Locals usually like to swing by The Front Row Bar and Grill for laid-back fare and a drink with friends. If you want to spend the day shopping and go out for a date night, downtown has boutiques, fine dining and concert venues.
Fast food chains, like Taco Bell, are nearby.
Grab a drink and some laid-back fare at The Front Row Bar and Grill.
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Get some fresh air at Sandalwood Playground or at the golf course
Sandalwood Playground is the local hub for a day at the playground or a community picnic. You can play a round of tennis on the courts, kick around a soccer ball or play football. For a day on the green, head to Miami Valley Golf Club in neighboring Fort McKinley.
Miami Valley Golf Club is in neighboring Fort McKinley.
Take the kids to Sandalwood Playground for playdates and exercise.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Hillcrest neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Hillcrest
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Hillcrest Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Hillcrest, Dayton sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Hillcrest, Dayton over the last 12 months is $100,000, down 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Great opportunity for a DIY specialist looking for some great sweat equity or a seasoned investor looking for another rental to their portfolio! Gorgeous hardwood floors and spacious rooms! Two car detached garage and a basement for additional storage! Price reflects condition! Sold as-is.
Spacious two-story property on North Main Street with flexible living layout and added income potential. Features a main residence plus additional apartment-style living area — ideal for extended family, guests, or rental opportunity. Convenient location close to shopping, dining, and commuter routes. Generous interior space with multiple living areas and strong value-add potential. Great option
Unique gem for any homeowner or investor!!! Well-maintained all-brick Cape Cod sits on an oversized, fenced corner lot in the charming Hillcrest neighborhood. Inside, you’ll find a spacious primary bedroom with an attached half bath, classic dormer windows, and abundant storage. The home offers an updated kitchen/bathrooms, and double-paned windows with beautiful wood floors throughout. Exterior
Great opportunity to own a nicely renovated 6 units with each unit offering two bedrooms each and updated interiors.Tenants cover their own heat and electric while the Owner is responsible for water and sewage, trash. Rent is below the market. Going rent is $850.00..
Clean, move-in ready home with character and updated bathrooms, freshly painted throughout. This charming property offers a functional layout with bright living spaces, neutral finishes, and multiple comfortable bedrooms. Updated bathrooms include a modern shower, while the kitchen is clean and fully functional with room for future updates. The unfinished basement provides great storage and
Perfect for first-time homebuyers, this beautifully updated home boasts a new concrete porch and walkway, updated flooring, resurfaced kitchen cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. With over $20,000 invested in basement for flood protection, including a dehumidifier and a new sump pump, you’ll have peace of mind. Plus, a home security camera system is included. Don’t miss out—this gem won’t
Charming 3-bedroom home showcasing original hardwood floors, historic door trim, and an eye-catching staircase with banister. Updated kitchen and bathroom feature tile finishes while maintaining the home’s classic character. Off-street parking adds convenience, and the large covered front porch provides a welcoming outdoor living space.
Vacant lot across from middle school in North Dayton. The parcel is ideal for a builder or investor seeking affordable land in an urban area. It's close to North Main, transit routes, and neighborhood amenities like parks. Utilities are nearby, and residential zoning applies.
Well-established duplex on a desirable corner lot — an excellent opportunity for investors or owner-occupants seeking income potential. The first-floor unit features a new AC, new furnace, and updated appliances. The side yard is fully fenced, offering additional outdoor space. Conveniently located close to amenities. Rents can be adjusted to align with current market rates. Fairview is available
This Brick 4-Unit is a great investment opportunity located at 257 Valleyview Dr in Dayton! Well-maintained multi-unit property offers strong rental potential and steady demand in a convenient location close to downtown Dayton, major highways, shopping, and local amenities. The property features functional layouts with spacious living areas, plenty of natural light, and practical kitchen spaces
This spacious 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath brick two-story offers character, versatility, and convenience in a well-established neighborhood. Recently refreshed with new flooring and fresh paint throughout, this home is move-in ready with a warm and inviting layout.A full basement provides excellent storage or expansion potential, while the converted garage adds a versatile bonus room—perfect for a
Investor Special! Unlock the potential this property has to offer with original hardwood flooring and spacious bedrooms. Located just minutes from downtown, this is a perfect rehab candidate for resale or cash-flow rental.
Welcome to Parkwood Place - where modern style meets everyday convenience! Our completely renovated 2-bedroom, 1- or 2-bath apartments feature high-end finishes throughout, including luxury tile, updated appliances, and the convenience of an in-unit washer and dryer. Thoughtfully designed living spaces create the perfect blend of comfort and style. Ideally located near shopping, dining,
Property Id: 1281169Convenient location - move right in - less than 10 minutes from downtown Dayton and Sinclair Community College. Comfortably spacious rooms. Clean and freshly painted. Newly remodeled kitchen and bath including new floors. Stove and refrigerator included. First floor unit. Landlord pays trash and water. *Min. Credit Score: 600 *Monthly Income Minimum: $2,800
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