Belmont County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Belmont County
Belmont County — County Seat: St. Clairsville
2026 Population Estimate: 64,104 | Official Website: https://www.visitbelmontcounty.com/
Belmont County is a historically significant eastern Ohio county on the West Virginia border and St. Clairsville as its county seat. The county has a deep Appalachian heritage rooted in coal mining — it was once one of the largest coal-producing counties in Ohio — and has reinvented itself in the 21st century around the natural gas and oil boom of the Utica and Marcellus Shale formations, making it a major hub for the shale energy industry. The Ohio Valley Mall in St. Clairsville is one of the region's major retail destinations. Major employers include Wheeling Hospital (across the border), Belmont College (a local community college in St. Clairsville), and numerous energy sector companies including Ascent Resources and Gulfport Energy. The county is also home to the Barkcamp State Park and is adjacent to the scenic Ohio River corridor. Belmont is the birthplace of singer Dean Martin, who grew up in Steubenville.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Natural gas, petrochemicals, advanced manufacturing, and energy transition.
PTT Global Chemical America's propane dehydrogenation plant (the largest in Ohio) is a landmark investment in the county. Cadiz Chemical/MPLX pipeline infrastructure, Wheeling Hospital (now Vandalia Health), and multiple natural gas processors are key employers. Mining heritage continues through mineral extraction.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Belmont County is at the center of Ohio's Utica/Marcellus shale energy economy. The Belmont County Port Authority has attracted petrochemical investment with the PTT facility representing a $2B+ regional investment. The Southeast Ohio Development Association coordinates economic planning. A 2024 initiative focused on training workers for hydrogen and clean energy jobs as federal infrastructure funds flow into the region.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
The I-70 corridor connects Belmont County east-west. The Ohio River at Shadyside supports barge transport. The Mountaineer Gas Center and multiple compressor stations form critical energy infrastructure. Broadband expansion is ongoing, with ARC grants targeting rural connectivity.
