Ohio

Ohio State Information

Capital: Columbus

Official Name: State of Ohio

Organized as a territory: May 7, 1788 (Northwest Territory)

Entered Union (rank): March 1, 1803 (17th)

Present constitution adopted: 1851

State abbreviation/Postal code: OH

State Area Codes: 216, 234, 283, 330, 419, 440, 513, 567, 614, 740, 937

Fun Facts About Ohio

Nickname: The Buckeye State

Origin of name: Ohio's name comes from the Iroquois word 'ohi-yo’, meaning 'great river' or 'large creek'.

Motto: “With God, all things are possible”

State symbols

Slogan: "So Much to Discover"

Flower: Scarlet Carnation (1904)

Tree: Ohio Buckeye (1953)

Animal: White-tailed Deer (1988)

Bird: Northern Cardinal (1933)

Gem: Ohio Flint (1965)

Song: "Beautiful Ohio" (1969)

Fossil: Isotelus trilobite and Dunkleosteus terrelli (1985)

Insect: Ladybug (1975)

Government

Governor: Mike DeWine, R (to Jan. 2024)

Lieutenant Governor: Jon Husted, R (to Jan. 2024)

Secy. of State: Frank LaRose, R (since Jan. 2019)

General Treasurer: There is no general treasurer position in Ohio; the state's financial matters are handled by the Department of Commerce Division of Unclaimed Funds.

Atty. General: Dave Yost, R (since Jan. 2019)

U.S. Representatives: 16

Senators: Sherrod Brown, D (to Jan. 2025); J. D. Vance, R (since Jan. 2023)

Historical biographies of Congressional members

Official Website: https://www.ohio.gov

Population

Residents: Ohioan

Resident population: 11,799,448 (7th Largest State, 2020)

10 largest cities (2020): Columbus, 905,748; Cleveland, 372,624; Cincinnati, 309,317; Toledo, 272,779; Akron, 197,597; Dayton, 140,407; Parma, 78,103; Canton, 70,447; Youngstown, 65,469; Lorain, 63,776

Race/Ethnicity: White (79.5%); Black or African American (13.7%); American Indian and Alaska Native (0.3%); Asian (2.6%); Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander (0.1%); Two or More Races (3.4%); Hispanic or Latino (4.0%).

Religion: Evangelical Protestant (29%); Catholic (18%); Mainline Protestant (16%); Unaffiliated (22%); Black Protestant (7%); Orthodox (0.3%); Other World Religions (0.3%); Other Faiths (2.5%); Mormon (0.6%).

Sex: Male: 5,872,029 (50.4%); Female: 5,769,829 (49.6%).

Age: Under 18: 2,529,313 (21.8%); 18-64: 7,420,161 (63.8%); 65 and over: 2,142,384 (18.4%). Median Age: 39.5.

Economy

GDP: $822.67 billion (7th in U.S., 2022)

Unemployment: 3.6% (2023)

Geography

Land area: 44,825 sq mi. (116,096 sq km)

Geographic center: In Delaware County, near the city of Columbus

Number of counties: 88

Largest county by population and area: Cuyahoga, 1,235,072 (2020); Ashtabula, 702 sq mi.

State forests: 20

State parks/recreation areas: 75

See additional census data

Tourism office

 

See more on Ohio:
Encyclopedia: Ohio
Encyclopedia: Geography
Encyclopedia: Economy
Encyclopedia: Government
Encyclopedia: History
Monthly Temperature Extremes

Printable Outline Maps

 

Ohio, often referred to as the "Buckeye State", is an embodiment of the American Midwest, full of vibrant cities like Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo, along with countless small towns that capture the American spirit. Central Ohio is home to a rich tapestry of natural wonders, from the rolling Appalachian foothills to the banks of the Ohio River. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or an urban adventurer, there's something for everyone in Ohio.

Ohio Geography

Stretching from the banks of Lake Erie in the north to the Appalachian Mountains in the south, Ohio boasts a diverse natural landscape. The state's major cities include Columbus, its capital, along with Cincinnati and Cleveland. The Ohio River forms part of the state's southern border, while the northern border is defined by Lake Erie. Its state parks and natural resources are a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its environment.

Ohio People & Population

Ohioans are known for their friendly, hard-working demeanor. The Ohio Department of Education oversees a range of educational stages, from high school to higher education, with notable institutions like the Ohio State University contributing to a well-educated population. Ohio children form an integral part of the community, and the state places a high emphasis on their mental health and overall well-being.

Ohio Government

The government of Ohio operates under a statewide framework, with Mike DeWine serving as the current governor in the statehouse. The state government functions under the direction of the Secretary of State and is governed by both local and state lawmakers. The Supreme Court of Ohio is the highest level of law enforcement in the state, while other state agencies ensure that various sectors of the state operate smoothly.

Ohio Economy

Ohio's economy is diverse, ranging from healthcare and education to manufacturing and technology. The state government publishes regular press releases to keep the public informed about the fiscal year's developments. Medicaid is a significant part of Ohio's healthcare sector, while other industries, like manufacturing, contribute to the state's financial health.

Ohio Interesting Facts

Ohio is home to several cultural icons. The Scioto Mile in Columbus offers a harmonious blend of urban cityscapes and natural beauty. Dayton is known as the birthplace of aviation, and Cleveland is famous for its Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Ohio Sports

Sports are an integral part of Ohio's culture, with professional teams like the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, and Columbus Crew bringing communities together. The state also hosts national events such as the Memorial Golf Tournament and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game. Ohioans are known for their passion and dedication to their sports teams.

Ohio Cuisine

Ohio is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this diversity. Traditional dishes like Cincinnati-style chili and buckeyes (peanut butter and chocolate treats) are popular among locals. The state is also known for its thriving craft beer scene, with breweries such as Great Lakes Brewing Company and Rhinegeist Brewery garnering national recognition.

Ohio Music

Ohio has a rich musical heritage, with artists like The Black Keys, John Legend, and Twenty One Pilots hailing from the state. Cleveland is home to the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra, while Columbus hosts popular music festivals such as Rock on the Range and Breakaway Music Festival. Ohio's music scene continues to thrive and produce top talent in various genres.

Ohio History

Ohio's history is a dynamic tapestry of events and people, stretching back thousands of years to the earliest civilizations that initially inhabited the region, through its colonial founding, and up to the contemporary era. This history has shaped the state's culture, government, and people, making Ohio the diverse and vibrant state that it is today.

Pre-Colonial History

Before colonial settlers arrived, Ohio was home to a variety of Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Miami, and Iroquois. These cultures thrived along the fertile riverbanks and vast forests of the region, developing complex societies and sophisticated agricultural systems. They left behind a rich legacy of art, oral history, and archaeological sites that continue to provide insight into their way of life.

Colonial History

During the colonial era, Ohio was initially part of the French territory called "La Louisiane." The state's borders were fluid and ever-changing due to conflicts and treaties among European powers. However, it was the British who established the first permanent settlements in the latter half of the 18th century. Ohio played a critical role in the American War of Independence, with significant battles fought on its soil. After the Revolutionary War, Ohio was included in the Northwest Territory and became the 17th state to join the union in 1803. Slavery was abolished in the state constitution, making Ohio a free state from its inception.

Pre-Civil War History

In the Antebellum years, Ohio developed rapidly, with infrastructure projects such as canals and railroads prompting economic growth. Despite its status as a free state, Ohio was not immune to political violence related to the issue of slavery, with the infamous Oberlin-Wellington Rescue occurring within its borders. Ohio was also a hotbed of innovation during this period, with notable inventors like Thomas Edison being born in the state.

Post-Civil War History

Post-Civil War Ohio saw significant industrialization and urbanization. The state became a powerhouse in manufacturing, steel production, and agriculture. Immigrants from European countries flocked to Ohio, further enriching its cultural fabric. The state was also a key player in the progressive movement of the early 20th century.

Modern History

From World War II to the present, Ohio has continued to play a central role in America’s development. The state was deeply involved in the war effort, with many Ohioans serving in the military and its factories producing much-needed war materials. The post-war period brought about significant social change, with civil rights issues and workers' rights taking center stage. In recent years, Ohio has seen growth in the technology and service sectors, reflecting the broader shift in the American economy. Through it all, Ohio remains a state deeply connected to its past while looking forward to the future.

People Also Ask…

If you are interested in more information about the state of Ohio, then keep reading — we have compiled answers to the most common questions below. Plus, test your newfound state knowledge by taking our quiz, Which U.S. States Have the Most Electoral Votes?

Is Ohio a Good or Bad Place To Live?

The answer to this question varies depending on who you ask. Some people may say Ohio is a great place to live due to its affordable cost of living, strong job market, and diverse recreational opportunities. Others may say it's not so great due to harsh winters and limited cultural diversity. Ultimately, the decision on whether Ohio is a good or bad place to live will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

What Is Ohio Famous For?

Ohio is often known for its contributions to American history, including being the birthplace of several U.S. presidents such as Ulysses S. Grant and William McKinley. It's also home to professional sports teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cincinnati Reds, as well as popular amusement parks like Cedar Point. Additionally, Ohio is renowned for its production of corn and soybeans, making it a top contributor to the country's agricultural industry.

What Are Some Popular Cities in Ohio?

Columbus, the state capital, is often considered one of the most popular cities in Ohio. It boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with several museums and galleries to explore. Cleveland, located on Lake Erie, is another major city known for its diverse food scene and bustling downtown area. Cincinnati, situated along the Ohio River, has a rich history and is home to iconic landmarks like the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Why Is Ohio Called Ohio?

The name “Ohio” comes from the Iroquois word ohi-yo, meaning “great river”. This name was given to the Ohio River, which runs along the southern border of the state and served as an important waterway for Native American tribes. When European settlers first arrived in the region, they adopted this name for the entire territory, which eventually became known as Ohio.

What Is a Fun Fact About Ohio?

An interesting fact about Ohio is that it was the birthplace of seven U.S. presidents, making it one of the leading states in terms of producing presidents. These presidents include Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, and Warren G. Harding.