DaytonBiker

For a busy professional who is new to town, I would recommend starting with either the Oregon District or Oakwood. I've lived in both, and they are both pleasant, walkable, neighborhoods which are convenient to just about everything in town. The Oregon District is more convenient to restaurants and entertainment downtown, while Oakwood is more convenient to Dorothy Lane Market (best grocery ever!) and shopping in Kettering. Unfortunately, the Oregon District is plagued with street noise from motorcycles (5th/Wayne) and semi trucks (35), while Oakwood is very quiet. On the other hand, Oakwood is somewhat sleepy and family-oriented, which doesn't suit everyone. For what it is worth, all of my Oregon District landlords have been good, and one of them was absolutely fantastic (he lived in the building, a great neighbor AND landlord). Also, the neighborhood part of the Oregon District is very different from the party scene on Fifth, and that didn't bother me too much while living there. You might be pleasantly surprised with Dayton, if you keep an open mind. In short, don't expect Dayton to be Cleveland, and instead look for the things that Dayton does well. The Oregon District is the closest thing Dayton has to an active urban neighborhood, but it really doesn't compare to what Cleveland offers. On the other hand, none of Cleveland's suburbs offer the same idyllic-yet-convenient environment that Oakwood does.

Good luck with your car-free experience! I am surprised that you did not mention the 17, which also serves 725 and the South Hub. You can take the 17 downtown, or to the Washington Township DLM on Far Hills. I would also strongly recommend getting a bicycle. No need to splurge on a folder since all RTA busses have bike racks.