Gallia County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Gallia County
Gallia County — County Seat: Gallipolis
2026 Population Estimate: 29,188 | Official Website: https://www.gallianet.net/
Gallia County is a scenic Appalachian county in southeastern Ohio along the Ohio River, with the historic city of Gallipolis as the county seat — named for its French founders who established a colony here in 1790 in one of America's earliest and most colorful settlement stories, memorialized in the charming Our House Tavern Museum. The county's economy has historically been tied to manufacturing, chemical production, and energy. Holzer Health System is the dominant healthcare employer. The county's location along the Ohio River has made it home to significant industrial operations including the Gavin Power Plant (one of the largest coal-fired power stations in the U.S., now transitioning). Ohio University – Southern in Ironton (Lawrence County) serves this region. The scenic Gallia County fairgrounds and the beautiful Ohio River panoramas attract visitors to this off-the-beaten-path corner of Ohio.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Chemical manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and agriculture.
Major employers include Holzer Health System, the Gavin Power Plant (AEP, transitioning to renewable uses), Rio Tinto's Alcan plant (primary aluminum smelting), and Gallia-Vinton Educational Service Center. The Ohio River supports chemical and industrial operations.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Gallia County is part of the Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) region, a JobsOhio partner. ARC funding supports rural broadband and entrepreneurship. The former Gavin Power Plant property is being assessed for redevelopment, with renewable energy options under study. Federal infrastructure funds target Ohio River bridge maintenance.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-35 connects Gallia County north to I-64 and south to the West Virginia border. The Ohio River provides industrial barge access. The Gallia County Local Airport supports business aviation. Bridge improvements to the Silver Memorial Bridge (Gallipolis) were completed with federal IIJA funds.