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Kettering, OH

Frequently asked questions

Kettering, OH

Kettering is a city in Montgomery County, Ohio, United States. It is an inner suburb of Dayton. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 57,862, making it the most populous suburb in the Dayton metropolitan area.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.42 square miles (42.53 km²), of which 18.68 square miles (48.38 km²) is land and 0.04 square miles (0.10 km²) is water. The city is bordered by Dayton, Riverside, and Oakwood to the north; West Carrollton and Moraine to the west; Miami Township to the southwest; Centerville and Washington Township to the south; and Beavercreek and Sugarcreek Township to the east.

The area where the city of Kettering now lies was settled from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s, largely as farmland. The population in the area started to grow, prompting the creation of (now defunct) Van Buren Township in 1841. In November 1952, township voters approved incorporating the Village of Kettering. (In 1953, the western portion of the village voted to secede, forming a new township, which is now the City of Moraine). By 1955, the village's population had grown to 38,118, which qualified it to claim city status, with the official proclamation by the state on June 24. The city is named for inventor Charles F. Kettering, who resided here in his home, Ridgeleigh Terrace, from 1914 until he died in 1958. Charles Kettering is known for his numerous inventions and contributions to Metro Dayton.

From the 1950s to the 1970s, Kettering's population continued to grow, adding more than 30,000 residents. This growth was due in part to the many people who started migrating out of nearby Dayton after World War II. Since the 1980s, Kettering has experienced a slow decline in population due to an aging population and loss of manufacturing jobs.

The city utilizes a council-manager form of government. Seven council representatives are elected for four-year terms on a non-partisan basis. They include the mayor, two at-large members, and one member from each of the four wards. The current Mayor is Peggy Lehner.

The Kettering City School District includes Kettering Fairmont High School, two middle schools (Van Buren and Kettering), and eight elementary schools (Beavertown, Greenmont, Indian Riffle, J.E. Prass, J.F. Kennedy, Oakview, Orchard Park, and Southdale). On the 2009–2010 Ohio report card, Kettering schools met all 26 state standards in testing, attendance, and graduation rates earning the state's highest category, Excellent with Distinction.

Kettering places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with several facilities and initiatives dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Kettering Health Network operates multiple hospitals and medical centers in the city, offering comprehensive healthcare services to residents. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Kettering Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Planet Fitness, Workout Anytime, and The Kettering Fitness & Wellness Center. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Kettering, such as the Indian Riffle Park and J.F. Kennedy Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Kettering, OH are Carillon Historical Park, Adventure Reef Water Park, and Delco Park.

Population: 57,028 (2024). ZIP codes: 45409, 45419, 45420, 45429, 45430, 45432, 45439, 45440, 45459. Area codes: 937, 326. Elevation: 1,007 ft (307 m). Area: 18.75 sq mi (48.56 km²).

FAQs

What is Kettering, OH famous for?

In 1952 it was incorporated as a village and renamed for the industrial scientist Charles F. Kettering, a resident of the community. Although the city is mainly residential, there has been planned industrial development, including testing laboratories and the manufacture of electric motors and generators, precision tools, automotive and aircraft accessories, and building materials. In the city are the Kettering College of Medical Arts (1967) and the Charles F. Kettering Memorial Hospital, known for its medical research facilities.

What is the crime rate in Kettering, OH?

The crime rate in Kettering is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 15 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. Residents can take comfort in knowing that law enforcement efforts and community initiatives contribute to maintaining public safety and security within the city.

Is Kettering, OH a good place to live?

Kettering is in Montgomery County and is one of the best places to live in Ohio. Living in Kettering offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Kettering there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many young professionals and retirees live in Kettering and residents tend to lean conservative. 

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Kettering, OH

Kettering Health Network

Kettering Parks and Recreation Department 

Planet Fitness

Workout Anytime 

The Kettering Fitness & Wellness Center

Indian Riffle Park 

J.F. Kennedy Park

Carillon Historical Park 

Adventure Reef Water Park

Delco Park

Britannica

NeighborhoodScout

Niche

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