Since Oakwood became a city in 1931, its five city managers have chosen to live in the city while serving the community.

Oakwood boasts a variety of unique and charming neighborhoods featuring housing options that range from apartments to cozy single-family homes to prominent estates. The city implemented strict code enforcement and inspection standards for all home, rental and business properties fifty years ago to ensure proper property maintenance and to safeguard its architecturally significant properties. This commitment to preservation ensures that Oakwood properties are valued, appreciated, and protected for future generations to enjoy. Oakwood offers a quaint village atmosphere characterized by thoughtfully planned neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and beautifully maintained landscaping. Additionally, the city-owned Smith Gardens and Francine’s Garden are cherished community assets supported by dedicated endowment and volunteer programs. Oakwood is renowned for housing historic landmarks like Hawthorn Hill, once the residence of Orville Wright, and has been a residence to influential industrialists and celebrities, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

Oakwood is continually recognized for its outstanding public school system, which provides an academy-like experience for all students in preparation for post-secondary education. The Oakwood school system is currently ranked # 6 in the State of Ohio by U.S. News and World Report and is granted 5 Stars by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. All schools and associated extracurricular facilities are located within walking distance for the convenience and safety of the attending students. In addition, the community is surrounded by several parochial, private, and faith-based elementary and secondary schools.

The full-service Wright Memorial Public Library recognized as one of America’s Star Libraries, the City’s recently developed Old River Sports Complex, the Oakwood Historical Society Homestead and House Museum, and the summer Farmers’ Market further complement the abundant quality of life features that make this community so desirable.

The Oakwood Downtown Business District offers boutiques, eateries, specialized services, and quality retail selections. The award-winning Dorothy Lane Market serves as the hub of the business district and is known regionally for its bakery and gourmet food selections.

Oakwood has an active and vibrant Sister City Association, with two sister cities: Le Vésinet, France, a suburb of Paris, and Outremont, Canada, a suburb of Montreal. Oakwood also has a formal friendship agreement with Unterhaching, a suburb of Munich. The association’s mission is “to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding and cooperation—one individual, one community at a time.”

Only five city managers have served Oakwood in the past 93 years, demonstrating its stability and livability.