Richland County
Richland County has long been a center of industrial production and technical innovation. With a population of 125,000 and a laborshed including over 300,000 workers, the county’s leading industries include metal fabrication, automotive component manufacturing, pipeline valves and controllers for oil and gas transmission, plastics manufacturing, and pump production. The Mansfield / Richland County area is strategically located in the center of the state, with three exits on Interstate I-71. It is less than an hour from both Columbus and Cleveland and an International Airport. Home to the Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport, the area is a tourism destination known for its historic downtowns, gorgeous scenery, thriving arts and entertainment sectors, and abundant outdoor recreation. The region is the filming location of Shawshank Redemption, Renaissance Theatre, Buckeye Imagination Museum, and home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield. The area boasts an affordable cost of living, outstanding post-secondary education partners, and a strong workforce.
Equipped to meet your needs
125,000+ PEOPLE
Living in Richalnd County
560,000 workers
In the robust workforce of Richland County
50 miles
Of regional labor shed, including 1.3M people
60-MINUTE DRIVE
From Clevelan, and Columbus
Recent Economic Development Achievements
Main Street Improvement Project
OEDA Award
New Spec Building
Broadband
179th Cyberspace Wing
Sterkel Park Project
Notable Higher Ed. / Vocational Training Institutions
The Ohio State University at Mansfield
Program Spotlights
LeaderRichland
LeaderRichland, founded in 2012 by Ohio State Representative Marilyn John, inspires 7th- and 8th-grade students to explore career pathways in north central Ohio. Hosted annually by Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, North Central State College, and The Ohio State University at Mansfield, students tour the NCSC/OSU-Mansfield campus and meet area professionals in healthcare, manufacturing, education, and technology. The program rotates yearly, focusing on boys in even years and girls in odd years, encouraging students to
pursue higher education and careers they’re passionate about in Richland County.
Leadership Unlimited
Leadership Unlimited (LU) equips mid-career professionals with the skills to become effective business and community leaders. Since 1983, this program has enhanced participants’ understanding of Richland County’s challenges and opportunities through tours, activities, and discussions. It also includes personal leadership growth through The Leadership Challenge® Workshop. Participants gain practical leadership skills, learn about local initiatives, expand their professional network, and explore nonprofit volunteer and board opportunities, empowering them to make a lasting impact in their careers and community.
Engage Richland
Engage Richland equips early-career professionals with leadership skills,
community engagement opportunities, and mentorship. Participants meet leaders, tour businesses, and explore civic involvement. Each is paired with a mentor who is aligned with their career goals and completes a capstone project advising a nonprofit. Leadership development is guided by The Leadership Challenge® Self Empowered™ Workshop. Through interactive sessions, participants expand their network, deepen their understanding of Richland County’s challenges and opportunities, and commit to community involvement while applying the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership®.
DiscoverRichland
Discover Richland Tours provide insight into local economic development
and attractions. The Fall Economic Development Tour highlights county-wide projects, while the Spring Area Attractions Tour showcases new and expanded destinations. Open to professionals at all levels, attendees connect with peers, leaders, and workforce resources while gaining awareness of initiatives shaping Richland County.
BrandRichland
BrandRichland showcases the strengths of Richland County as a vibrant place to live, work, and grow. It highlights the region’s thriving economy, skilled workforce, and strategic location while promoting opportunities for business development, community engagement, and quality of life. Through innovative marketing and storytelling, BrandRichland connects people and businesses with the resources, partnerships, and support they need to succeed, fostering pride in the region and driving growth.
