Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a home is a big investment. Why should I make that investment in Oakwood?
Oakwood properties offer excellent value for the money, consistently maintaining or increasing in value over time. Even during the disastrous first quarter of 2009, for example, when home values nationwide were down an average of 13%, Oakwood property values slipped only 6%, and have rebounded steadily to an increase of 9%. Your dollars buy more in Oakwood than in many comparable communities around the country, with the median price for an existing family home at $200,000. Overall cost-of-living is a bargain in Oakwood, too-19% lower than the national average.
What about taxes? Aren't they higher than those in other Dayton-area communities?
Oakwood's income tax rate of 2.5% is only slightly higher than that of neighboring Kettering (2.25%); the difference is in Oakwood's much higher level of city services. Oakwood property taxes (based on assessed value of the property and a total effective millage rate of 77.70 for 2009) also compare favorably with other area communities, supporting the area's highest-rated school district, the Wright Memorial Public Library, Sinclair Community College, and a number of vital Montgomery County services.
I'm concerned about safety. Does a small city like Oakwood have the resources to provide effective police, fire, and emergency medical services?
Oakwood is one of the safest communities in the state, thanks to the maximized resources of a fully cross-trained Public Safety Department. All the city's sworn officers are certified in law enforcement, fire fighting, and emergency medical services, and Oakwood's state-of-the-art, independent communications system assures rapid, knowledgeable dispatch. These factors help keep Oakwood emergency response times lightning fast, averaging several minutes under the national standards for rapid response. Oakwood crime rates are among the lowest in the state, and a combination of strict traffic enforcement and citizen cooperation in crime prevention help keep Oakwood's walkable streets safe.
I've heard Oakwood has a reputation for being exclusive or snobby. How open is Oakwood to diversity?
Like many first-tier suburbs, Oakwood was once viewed (in perception, if not in reality) as an enclave of privilege. Today, however, Oakwood is home to a vibrant mix of ages, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Racial diversity is growing, with Oakwood now more diverse than 60% of Ohio communities. Far from snobby, Oakwood is now named by new residents-including military personnel who've resided around the world-as one of the friendliest, most welcoming places they've ever lived.
If I buy or rent in Oakwood, will I spend lots of time in traffic commuting to my job?
Oakwood commute times are, on average, shorter than those of more than 85% of other Ohio communities. The median commute is 15 minutes, and the city's central location and access to public transportation, bikeways, and highway systems make it easy for Oakwood residents to spend more time at home than in transit. A lucky 3% of Oakwood's citizens even walk to work.
Who can I talk to if I have more questions about moving to Oakwood?
Call 937-298-0600 or email info@welcome2oakwood.com, and we'll put you in touch with an Oakwood Ambassador - someone who lives in Oakwood and can address your questions from a resident's perspective.