Grafton, Ohio
Grafton
Est. 2026 Population: 5,895 | Government Website: https://villageofgrafton.org/ | Schools: Midview Local School District
Grafton is a historic village in southeastern Lorain County with a 2020 census population of 5,895, straddling the East Branch of the Black River. Grafton holds the unique and notable distinction of being home to the Lorain Correctional Institution — a major Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction facility — which significantly impacts both the village's population demographics and its local economy, as a large number of the census-counted residents are incarcerated individuals. The original civilian residential population is considerably smaller. The village was platted in 1846 when the railroad extended to this point, and sandstone quarrying drove early growth. Historic industries have included foundry and manufacturing operations. The village is served by the Midview Local School District, and the surrounding Grafton Township area features agricultural land and small businesses. The Grafton area is also known for access to the Black River for fishing and recreation.