Columbiana County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Columbiana County
Columbiana County — County Seat: Lisbon
2026 Population Estimate: 99,078 | Official Website: https://www.columbianacounty.org/
Columbiana County is a historic northeastern Ohio county on the Pennsylvania border with Lisbon as its county seat. The county is home to Salem, one of Ohio's most historically significant abolitionist communities — Salem was a major hub of the anti-slavery movement and women's suffrage activism in the 19th century, hosting early women's rights conventions and harboring freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. The county has a strong manufacturing heritage rooted in the steel industry, with the city of East Liverpool historically known as the pottery and ceramics capital of the United States — its distinctive "Crockery City" heritage is celebrated at the Museum of Ceramics in East Liverpool. The county also benefits from shale energy development and features scenic farmland and forested ridge-and-valley terrain. The Beaver Creek State Park with its historic canal locks and covered bridge is a beloved local treasure.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Steel, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture.
Salem and Lisbon are the major commercial centers. Key employers include Columbiana County Health System, Salem Community Hospital, Compuware (now DXC Technology), Farmers National Banc Corp, and several steel fabricators and specialty manufacturers. The county borders Pennsylvania and draws cross-state economic activity.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
The Columbiana County Economic Action Team (EAT) coordinates with RGP Ohio on business development. The county received brownfield remediation funds in 2024 for former steel and manufacturing sites. Rural broadband expansion is ongoing, with USDA ReConnect grants covering underserved areas.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-30 and SR-11 are primary corridors. The former Alliance Steel site is under redevelopment. Rail access via Norfolk Southern serves manufacturing. The county is pursuing water system upgrades to attract new industrial tenants to certified shovel-ready sites.
