Dayton one of the worst cities to raise a family, report says

Dayton is one of the worst cities in Ohio to raise a family, according to a new report.

The Gem City ranked as the fifth worst city in Ohio to raise a family, according to WalletHub's 2018 Best & Worst Places to Raise A Family report. Mason and Springboro both ranked in the top five best cities in Ohio to raise a family. Beavercreek ranked No. 9.

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To identify the most family-friendly places in Ohio, WalletHub compared more than 180 of the state’s cities across 21 key indicators of ideal family conditions. The data set ranges from the share of families with young children to median family income to housing affordability.

Chris Kershner, vice president of public policy and economic development for the Dayton Chamber of Commerce, said urban areas often rank lower on these types of lists. He said the Dayton metro area offers several amenities for families including cultural activites, diversity, unique living spaces and excellent parks.

“Dayton has a lot of great attributes that lead to a strong quality of life,” he said.

Here’s how Dayton ranked:

  • 52nd– percent of Families with Children Under 18
  • 181st– Median Family Income (cost of living-adjusted)
  • 150th– Quality of School System
  • 104th – High School Graduation Rate
  • 147th – Violent-Crime Rate
  • 97th – Housing Affordability
  • 181st – percent of Families Below Poverty Level
  • 49th – Unemployment Rate
  • 180th – Divorce Rate
  • 44th– Playgrounds per Capita

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