Shiloh, part of Harrison Township, has renovated homes near Dayton
An unincorporated community along the Stillwater River, Shiloh has seen its fair share of change. “There were a lot of investors that came in and did renovations in the area,” says Miranda Biedenharn of Comey & Shepherd Realtors, who has been selling homes in Dayton for 15 years. “But it’s more owner-occupied now, and the prices are still pretty good for renovated projects.” Many renovations were necessary due to older homes and tornadoes that passed through in 2019. The community has since recovered and thrives. As part of Harrison Township, Shiloh residents don’t pay city income taxes, and Dayton public schools and the city’s public transit system operate in the area. “It’s a quieter, suburban feel while still being close to the convenience of the Dayton neighborhoods,” says Traci Martin, Realtor with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services and President of the Greater Dayton Realtist Association.
Homes range from renovated ranch-style houses to New Traditionals
Long driveways connect grassy lots, shaded by mature trees, to narrow residential streets. Properties range from mid-20th-century brick ranch-style houses and split-levels to New Traditional homes and older cottages. “The pricing has generally been lower than in more upscale suburbs, making it attractive for some homebuyers and families looking for more value,” says Martin, who also serves as the housing chair for the NAACP. Depending on size and condition, most homes cost $130,000 to $250,000. Larger properties cost $250,000 to $450,000. Tucked between residential pockets are nursing homes, senior living apartments, office buildings and houses of worship, including the township’s only synagogue.
Dayton Public Schools include Meadowdale Career Technology Center
Shiloh is part of the Dayton Public School District, which offers school choice for inter- and intra-district open enrollment. Valerie Elementary, E. J. Brown Middle and Meadowdale High all receive a C-minus from Niche. The high school is also known as Meadowdale Career Technology Center, and students can enroll in technical programs ranging from digital design to nursing, completing hands-on coursework and internships in the community.
Residents use Dayton buses and Harrison Township emergency services
Greater Dayton RTA bus routes stop along state Route 48 and Turner Road, connecting riders to the entire city. “There are a lot of commuters because, with Shiloh’s location being just outside of Dayton, it means that residents drive into the city for work,” Martin says. “The good thing is that there’s access to Interstate 75 and Interstate 70, which makes commuting easy.” State Route 48 leads downtown, and Philadelphia Drive and Shoup Mill Road are primary routes through the suburbs and over the Stillwater River. Dayton International Airport is 6 miles away. While transit options are provided by and connected to the city, Roberts says emergency services are not. “Something about Shiloh being in Harrison Township is that it’s not served by the Dayton police,” he says. “If you need help, you’re going to call the sheriff’s department.” The closest emergency room is at Miami Valley Hospital, less than 4 miles away.
Recreation includes the Stillwater River and Wegerzyn Gardens
Residents can choose from small neighborhood parks to larger recreational areas like the Wegerzyn Gardens. "A big draw is that there are a couple of parks that are walkable," says Jeffrey Roberts, a Realtor with RE/MAX Alliance Realty Inc. Shiloh Park was completely redone after the 2019 tornadoes, and now includes a playground, tennis and pickleball courts, a rugby field and a volleyball net. Sinclair is another walkable option with similar amenities and riverfront views. Stillwater River Recreational Trail and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark are on the other side of the river. The gardens are an 88-acre natural escape with curated formal gardens, hiking trails, native wildlife habitats and a discovery garden. "It's really cool. There's an entire section dedicated to teaching kids about different aspects of gardening and growing plants," says Biedenharn. Visitors also enjoy the park's massive community garden, which offers rentable plots year-round.
Locals dine at Burkey Family Restaurant and The Corner Club
Shiloh has plenty of restaurants and retail options. Donato's Pizza is a favorite for a quick slice, and there are more chains along State Route 48. The locally owned Burkey Family Restaurant specializes in homestyle cooking. Diners enjoy classics like meatloaf and mashed potatoes at long communal tables before selecting a slice of freshly made pie. At The Corner Club, people can grab a drink, watch the game or play a round of pool. NorthTown Center is less than 1 mile away and has stores like Value Foods Market, Kings Family International Grocery Store, Rocky's Ace Hardware and Dollar Tree. There are more options in Northridge, less than a 3-mile drive, and 5 miles away in downtown Dayton.
