Hardware Engineer Jobs in Dayton, OH

Dayton, Ohio$98,700 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: May 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Hardware Engineer Jobs in Dayton

Looking for a Hardware Engineer job in Dayton? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Hardware Engineer in Dayton, OH.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Dayton has a strong job market for Hardware Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Hardware Engineer Salary in Dayton

Entry Level
$60,690
Median
$98,700
Senior Level
$144,900

Hardware Engineer salaries in Dayton are 16% below the national average, though the lower cost of living often provides similar purchasing power.

Purchasing power in Dayton is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Circuit DesignPCB LayoutEmbedded SystemsTestingCAD Tools

Hardware Engineer Job Market in Dayton

Dayton, OH is a specialized market with unique career opportunities for Hardware Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Dayton offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Aerospace and Defense sectors create robust demand for Hardware Engineer talent. The market for Hardware Engineer positions remains growing, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Hardware Engineers in Dayton

Local tech startupsRegional IT firmsNational tech companies with local offices

Major employers hiring Hardware Engineers in Dayton include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Hardware Engineers in Dayton

Living in Dayton as a Hardware Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious professionals. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Hardware Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 22% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

84
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 4
Market Size

Commuting as a Hardware Engineer in Dayton

Dayton Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Hardware Engineers in Dayton: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Hardware Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Ohio

Ohio has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Hardware Engineers

The job outlook for Hardware Engineers in Dayton is growing. Industry projections suggest 5% growth over the next decade, outpacing many other professions. While the market is smaller, Dayton offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Circuit Design, PCB Layout, Embedded Systems, Testing.

Relocating to Dayton

Dayton's affordable cost of living means your Hardware Engineer salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Hardware Engineer salary in Dayton, OH?

The average Hardware Engineer salary in Dayton, OH is $98,700 per year. Entry-level Hardware Engineers typically start around $60,690, while experienced professionals can earn $144,900 or more. The national average for Hardware Engineer roles is $117,500.

How many Hardware Engineer jobs are available in Dayton?

Dayton has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Hardware Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Hardware Engineers include Local tech startups, Regional IT firms, National tech companies with local offices. The Aerospace and Defense sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Dayton a good city for Hardware Engineers?

Dayton is an solid choice for Hardware Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's aerospace industry creates strong demand for technology & software professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Hardware Engineers in Dayton?

Top skills for Hardware Engineers in Dayton include Circuit Design, PCB Layout, Embedded Systems, Testing, CAD Tools. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can strengthen your candidacy.

What is the cost of living for Hardware Engineers in Dayton?

Dayton's cost of living is below the national average (84% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Dayton is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Hardware Engineers in Dayton?

Dayton Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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