I'm sure you've heard this before, but honestly it really depends on how you plan to use the camera. I have the D7000 and I love it! Both of these cameras are very similar, however one may be better than the other dependent upon your needs. The D5300 is a newer camera and has a higher mega-pixel count, but honestly unless you're going to be doing photos for buildboards...likely the extra megapixels won't make much of a difference. The D5300 also has the articulating screen (great for shooting video - the D7000 can be a bit of a pain when you're trying to shoot low/different angles) and the low pass filter removed (but doubt that would really make a difference to you).

The D7000 gives you 2 SD card slots (which I LOVE because I can shoot RAW and JPEG at the same time without having to convert; or just extend out my storage across 2 cards). It also has a built in focus motor (which has already saved me a little money because I was able to by less expensive lenses that didn't have the autofocus built in and use with this camera - about $100 difference on a 50mm prime lens). The extra frames per second and auto-focus points are great if you plan to shoot a lot of sports/fast action and the weather proofing doesn't hurt either.

Regarding low light performance, I've shot some very good low-light shots with the D7000 and honestly, it really comes down more to the glass (having a fast lens) then anything else. Being that both of these cameras pretty much can use all of the same lenses, any additional expense on a lens would be the same either way.

So ultimately I don't think you could go wrong with either camera, it just really depends on your needs/usage. Do you plan on shooting a lot of fast action/sports and would be doing a LOT of shooting where you don't want to change out the memory cards more frequently? Then I'd recommend the D7000. Do you plan to shoot a lot of video and need to be able to shoot at higher frame rates in 1080p and variable angles? Then the D5300 is probably the better way to go.

But if you're just looking for a good DSLR that takes good pictures, feels good in your hands and has a good range of lenses to be able to pick from? Then take your pick between the two, because you can't go wrong.

Hope this helps.