Fairborn, Ohio, is a suburb situated within the Dayton metropolitan area, offering residents a blend of suburban living with access to regional amenities. The community is often considered by those seeking affordability and proximity to major employment centers in Southwest Ohio. Located in Greene County, Fairborn is a practical consideration for individuals and families looking for a place to settle.
Affordability and Housing Landscape
Fairborn presents a lower cost of living compared to the national average, making it an economically attractive option for prospective residents. The overall cost of necessities, including housing, food, and transportation, is approximately 12% to 15% lower than the national benchmark. This affordability is largely driven by the relatively low cost of housing.
The median home value in Fairborn is around $197,126, which is notably less than the national median. For renters, the average cost for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $856 per month, and a three-bedroom rental is around $1,224. Property owners in Greene County face a median effective property tax rate of around 1.59% to 2.02%, which is higher than the national median of 1.02%.
Community Safety and Education Quality
Fairborn’s overall crime rate is lower than the national average, with some analyses suggesting it is 36% below the national rate. The violent crime rate in the city is also lower than both the national and Ohio state averages, with a chance of becoming a victim of violent crime at approximately 1 in 399. Compared to other cities of a similar size, Fairborn’s crime rate is near the average, indicating a typical safety level for its population.
The Fairborn City School District (FCSD) has shown measurable improvements in recent academic reporting periods. The district’s overall rating from the Ohio Department of Education is four stars out of five, reflecting a focus on academic excellence. Specifically, the FCSD earned the highest five-star rating in the “Gap Closing” component, which measures the reduction in educational gaps for student subgroups. The presence of Wright State University within Fairborn’s boundaries is a major educational asset, providing residents access to higher education and cultural events.
Local Economy and Lifestyle Amenities
The local economy of Fairborn is heavily influenced by Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), which is situated nearby. WPAFB is the largest single-site employer in Ohio, employing approximately 38,000 personnel, including military, civilian, and contractor staff, and serves as the headquarters for acquisition and research for the U.S. Air Force. This concentration of defense and aerospace activity provides significant economic stability and job opportunities for the region, extending to numerous associated defense contractors and technology firms.
Daily life in Fairborn is supported by a variety of amenities and recreational spaces. The city maintains approximately 686 acres of parks, nature preserves, and wetland reserves that offer opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Fairborn features a distinct downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and a historic theater, contributing to the community’s small-town atmosphere. The city’s location is advantageous for commuters and shoppers, with easy access to major shopping areas in nearby Beavercreek and a short 20-minute drive to Downtown Dayton via Interstate 675.