Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dayton, WA
Considering a move to Dayton, WA? This small city of 2,460 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $242,000 and 2-bedroom rents averaging $910. Dayton enjoys a low violent crime rate (120 per 100k), short 15-minute commutes, and 63% sunny days each year. With a friendly community, local hospital, and close-knit schools, Dayton is a peaceful place to settle while enjoying easy access to the outdoors and a relaxed, low-cost lifestyle.
Demographics - Dayton, WA
Demographics - Dayton, WA
Dayton, WA is a small, close-knit community of 2,460 residents with a median age of 47.3, reflecting a mature population. The city is predominantly White (nearly 90%), and about 7.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density provides a comfortable blend of small-town charm and neighborly connection.
Population:
2,460
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.3
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.7%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
9.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dayton, WA?
Living in Dayton is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $242,000 and average rents around $910 for a two-bedroom, making homeownership and renting accessible. The overall cost of living index is 93.2, which is below the national average, and residents benefit from Washington’s lack of state income tax. Utilities and daily expenses are also generally affordable, contributing to a relaxed, low-cost lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$242,000
Gross Rent:
$910
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,025
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,185
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.2
Grocery:
97.6
Housing:
78.5
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
95.5
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
96.7
Crime
Is Dayton, WA a safe place to live?
Dayton boasts a low violent crime rate of 120 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,050 per 100,000, making it a generally safe place to live. Residents have a 1 in 833 chance of experiencing violent crime, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. The community’s small size and neighborly atmosphere contribute to its overall safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,170
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Dayton, WA year-round?
Dayton experiences four distinct seasons, with warm, dry summers reaching highs in the upper 80s and chilly winters dipping into the mid-20s. The city enjoys about 63% sunny days throughout the year and receives an average of 13.4 inches of rainfall, making it appealing for those who appreciate a mix of sunshine and mild seasonal changes. These conditions support a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Dayton’s residents have a median household income of $57,400 and a poverty rate of 11.5%, reflecting a stable economic environment. Commute times are short, averaging under 15 minutes, and the community values education, with over 91% having completed high school. Most neighbors own their homes, contributing to the town’s friendly and settled feel.
Median Income:
$32,800
Household Income:
$57,400
Family Income:
$65,700
Per Capita Income:
$30,900
Income Male:
$37,100
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$910
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
14.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.8%
Education
How are the schools in Dayton, WA?
Dayton offers quality public education with a low student-teacher ratio and close-knit schools serving all grade levels. While there are no private schools in town, Walla Walla Community College is just 32 miles away, providing additional educational opportunities. The town’s school system is an integral part of its family-friendly atmosphere.
Public Schools
Name:
Dayton Elementary School
Street:
302 E Park St
Phone:
509-382-2507
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.3
Name:
Dayton High School
Street:
614 S 3rd St
Phone:
509-382-4775
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Colleges
Name:
Walla Walla Community College
City:
Walla Walla
State:
WA
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
2,400
Healthcare
Dayton General Hospital serves as the city’s primary healthcare provider, offering general and emergency services conveniently located within the community. With 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, access to care is reliable. The healthcare index of 69.8 indicates quality services for a town of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Dayton General Hospital
Address:
1012 S 3rd St, Dayton, WA 99328
Phone:
(509) 382-2531
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dayton, WA?
The housing market in Dayton is accessible, with a median home price of $242,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 67.5%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $910 and a vacancy rate of 6.1%, providing flexibility for newcomers. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates reflect a stable, affordable market.
Median Home Price:
$242,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$910
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Dayton can access vehicle and licensing services at the local Washington State Department of Licensing office located in town. The office offers standard services and is easily reachable for all licensing needs. More information and online services are available through the state’s website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
500 1st Ave, Dayton, WA 99328
Phone:
(360) 902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.