Highland County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
View a map of Highland County
View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Highland County
Highland County — County Seat: Hillsboro
2026 Population Estimate: 43,942 | Official Website: https://www.co.highland.oh.us/
Highland County is a south-central Ohio county centered on Hillsboro — a community that played a pivotal role in American temperance history as the birthplace of the Women's Crusade of 1873, the grassroots movement of women who entered saloons in prayer protest, directly inspiring the national temperance movement and the eventual Women's Christian Temperance Union. The county has a diverse character ranging from agricultural flatlands in the west to Appalachian foothills in the east, with the Paint Creek State Park and its scenic reservoir a popular recreation destination. The historic Serpent Mound is just over the county line in Adams County. Major employers include Highland District Hospital and local agricultural and manufacturing businesses. The county is known for its scenic rural landscapes and proximity to the remarkable natural areas of southern Ohio.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Major employers include Highland District Hospital, Rocky Fork Lake State Park (hospitality), and light manufacturers. Agriculture—corn, soybeans, tobacco—remains important. The county hosts several small precision manufacturers.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Highland County Economic Development works with the Dayton Development Coalition to attract manufacturing. Rocky Fork Lake supports tourism-related economic activity. ARC grants support rural entrepreneurship and broadband planning.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-50 and SR-753 are primary roads. Rocky Fork State Park drives seasonal tourism. Broadband expansion is underway in rural areas. The county's proximity to I-71 (via Fayette County) enhances logistics potential.
