Hillcrest offers a calm, residential setting with older homes
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 five 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
Sunnyview, which has well-maintained homes and quiet streets
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 and 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 nearby Dayton schools
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 in the area.
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 game of tennis on the courts, kick around a soccer ball or play football. For a day on the greens, 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 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Hillcrest, Dayton over the last 12 months is $100,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
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
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.
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.
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
Exceptional opportunity-Investor Alert! 2-story duplex in good rental district off N. Main near Hillcrest. Close to park, major bus stop, commerce, downtown, major highways, school. Home offers on each side: first floor: Living room, dining room, kitchen. Second floor: 3 bedrooms, full bath. 1/2 of unfinished basement where mechanics are located. 2 car detached garage in back. Potential rents for
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.
Duplex/multifamily property located at 337 Cherry Dr., Dayton, OH. These two-story offers approximately 2,040 sq. ft. of building area with 12 total rooms and an estimated 4,400 sq. ft. of total room area. The property features four bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Equipped with central heating, including basement, and gas heating fuel. Situated on a quiet street with convenient access to
Renovated in 2023, Great opportunity with this 2-unit multi-family property, each offering 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath. Both units feature wood floors, main-level entry, and functional layouts with eat-in kitchens. Bedrooms are located upstairs, providing separation of living and private spaces. Enjoy a divided backyard offering private outdoor space for each unit, plus a detached 2-car garage for
This property is 3-bedroom one full bath 1,404 sq foot home. This has hardwood floors in the living room and dining room area. The water line was replaced in 2022. Kitchen needs some TLC, but owner is willing to do some work with the right offer. This home also offers nice size bedrooms and an additional bonus room on the second floor! This also has a basement with plenty of room and a nice size
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
Come make 412 Parkwood. Home! This completely remodel Beautiful Apartment is on a quiet street and has a Open floor plan. Enjoy 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Off-Street Parking, Stainless Steel Appliances, Video Door Bell and so Much More! Building has the latest security systems. Lease term is 3 year. Dog and Cat possible with preapproval and additional deposit of $500 per pet. Only minutes from the
Welcome to our newly refurbished 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment located in Dayton, OH that is offering a Rent Special that allows you to get the First Month`s Rent 1/2 Off to help with move-in fees. This cozy space features new vinyl plank flooring throughout, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen comes equipped with a stove and refrigerator, perfect for preparing meals at home.
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