Hardin County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
View a map of Hardin County
View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Hardin County
Hardin County — County Seat: Kenton
2026 Population Estimate: 29,890 | Official Website: https://hardincountyohio.gov/
Hardin County is a northwest Ohio county centered on Kenton — the county seat named for frontier hero Simon Kenton. The county has an agricultural character with broad, flat, fertile fields typical of the Lake Erie plain. Ohio Northern University in Ada is an important private university known for its professional schools in law, pharmacy, and engineering. The county is also home to the Hardin County Wind Farm — one of Ohio's most visible alternative energy developments. Major employers include Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center and Ohio Northern University. The county's quiet communities have a strong agricultural identity, and the Hardin County Fair is a beloved annual tradition. The county is traversed by US Route 30 (the historic Lincoln Highway) and features charming rural towns with deep Ohio pioneer heritage.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Agriculture, small manufacturing, and education.
Major employers include Hardin Memorial Hospital, Kenton City Schools, Goodyear Tire & Rubber (Lima nearby), and agricultural processing operations. Ohio Northern University (in Ada) is a significant educational employer and draws healthcare and engineering graduates to the region.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Hardin County Economic Development works with RGP Ohio to attract manufacturing and agribusiness tenants. Ohio Northern University's pharmacy and engineering programs provide workforce pipelines for regional employers. Rural broadband expansion is ongoing across the county's many small townships.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-30 and US-68 are primary corridors. The county is investing in water system improvements to support new commercial development in Kenton. AES Ohio provides utility service. Agriculture remains the backbone, with elevators and feed operations distributed across the county.
