SE Ohio Counties
Jefferson County
Jefferson County, Ohio, offers a prime location along the Ohio River, with direct access to major transportation routes, including rail, highways, and river ports, making it a hub for logistics and trade. Historically known for its steel production, the county has a strong industrial base with active sectors in manufacturing, energy, and heavy industry, and is now diversifying into healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology.
The Jefferson County Port Authority supports development by providing assistance with site selection, infrastructure, and business incentives, while local workforce development programs ensure companies have access to skilled labor. The county is home to thriving communities like Steubenville and Wintersville, where economic growth is complemented by a rich cultural heritage and scenic riverfront views. Whether you're expanding an existing business or starting a new venture, Jefferson County’s strategic location, resources, and vibrant community offer the perfect environment for success.
Connect with the Jefferson County Economic Development Organization
Robert Naylor, Executive Director
rnaylor@jcport.com(740) 283-2476
Jefferson County Port Authority
500 Market Street, Suite 3
Steubenville, Ohio 43952
http://www.jcport.com/
A Snapshot of Jefferson County
County Seat:
Steubenville
Nearest Airport(s):
Jefferson County Airport: 2.8 miles
John Glenn Columbus International Airport: 151 miles
Highways:
US 22, OH 7
Workforce:
121,064 within a 45-minute drive
Population:
63,822 live in the county
GDP:
$369,356,776 in Gross Regional Product
Primary Industries
Logistics & Distribution
Metal Fabrication
Railways:
CSX Transportation Inc, Columbus and Ohio River Railroad, Norfolk Southern Corp, OHI-Rail Corporation, Wheeling and Lake Erie Railway Company
Higher Education:
Jefferson County Joint Vocational School
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Median Household Income:
$54,818
Median Home Value:
$134,124
Cost of Living Index:
89.6
Major Employers
Utilities
Electricity Providers:
Carroll REA
Ohio Power
South Central REA
Natural Gas Providers:
Columbia Gas
Telephone/Internet Providers:
AT&T Ohio
Frontier North
Windstream Western Reserve
Top attractions in Jefferson County
Southeast Ohio is the kind of place that surprises you—where you stumble upon a town that feels like it was pulled from a movie set, enjoy one-of-a-kind, locally owned shops, or discover a hiking trail that becomes your new favorite. It’s the largest, yet somehow least talked-about, region of Ohio, and that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where you can slow down, look around, and see that life’s greatest adventures are right in front of you.
Jefferson Lake State Park
The tranquil park offers visitors miles of rugged, multi-use trails, camping, and more.
Steubenville Nutcracker Village
The world's largest collection of life-size nutcrackers.
Black Sheep Vineyard
A family-owned vineyard in Adena.
Steubenville Murals
Over 20 larger-than-life murals depict people, events and sites.
Historic Fort Steuben
Fort Steuben was a fortification erected in 1787 on the Ohio River.
Related stories about Jefferson County
Maple Manufacturing Announces Operations in Jefferson County
Maple Manufacturing announced its location to Yorkville, Ohio, creating 35 new jobs. Founded in 2017, Maple Manufacturing enhances metal for container producers by processing steel coils and cut sheets.
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JSW Steel USA Plans to Invest at Least $119.4 Million to Bring New Jobs and Technology to Jefferson County Plant
JSW Steel USA (JSW) plans to create 26 new jobs and invest at least $119.4 million at its Mingo Junction steel plant for upgrades to better serve growing markets in...
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100% Made In America Bully Tools, Inc., Announces Expansion in Steubenville
Today, 100% Made in America Bully Tools, Inc. (Bully Tools), in collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) and the Jefferson County Port Authority, announced plans for a $6.7...
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