Why Richland County
Why Richland County — Our Advantage
Richland County, Ohio, offers the perfect balance of industrial strength, strategic access, and collaborative support. Located along I-71 between Cleveland and Columbus, businesses here reach major markets within hours, powered by a workforce where 1 in 5 employees work in manufacturing, double the national average.
Our region combines affordable land, infrastructure, and deep-rooted technical expertise with a forward-looking focus on defense, aerospace, ag manufacturing, and healthcare innovation. Backed by unified local leadership and responsive economic development partners, Richland County delivers everything existing or new companies need to build, produce, and thrive.
Welcome Home to Richland County
Local Lifestyle
- Strong school systems with a wide variety of options
- Award-winning medical systems
- Variety of small town and urban housing options
- Ample outdoor recreation opportunities
- Robust local arts & entertainment culture
Local Attractions
- Kingwood Center Gardens
- Renaissance Theatre
- Ohio Bird Sanctuary
- Malabar Farm State Park
- Richland Carrousel Park
- Snow Trails Ski Lodge
- Mansfield Art Center
- Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
- Mohican State Park
- Ohio State Reformatory
- Little Buckeye Children’s Museum
Strategic Location
Richland County, Ohio, offers direct access to I‐71 and major Midwest markets, connecting businesses to 60% of the U.S. population within a day’s drive. With three interstate exits, freight rail access, and air cargo service via Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport, we’re built for logistics.
Skilled Workforce
Our labor force delivers. With a 300,000+ regional labor shed and one of the highest concentrations of manufacturing jobs in the nation (1 in 8 jobs), we’re ready to meet the needs of growing industries. Local training providers work alongside employers to build the pipeline.
Industry Strength
From legacy brands to next-gen manufacturers, we’re a region that builds. Our specialties include:
Advanced Manufacturing
Agriculture & Equipment Manufacturing
Medical & Healthcare
Global Pump Systems
Business Friendly Environment
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development team works across all jurisdictions, with direct access to:
- Local Port Authority bond financing and sales tax exemptions
- Community Reinvestment Areas (CRAs)
- Customized workforce and infrastructure solutions
- State and regional incentives
Key Facts
125,000+
residents
300,000+
regional workforce
4
direct I‐71 exits
22-minute
average commute
Cost of living
20%-30%
lower than major metros
Let’s Talk
We’re here to help you build the future, right here in Richland County.