Preble County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources

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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Preble County

Preble County — County Seat: Eaton

2026 Population Estimate: 40,610  |  Official Website: https://www.prebco.org/

Preble County is a southwestern Ohio county with Eaton as its county seat. The county has a strong agricultural economy and is one of Ohio's most rural counties in the western part of the state, with rolling farmland producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. The county is home to one of Ohio's best-preserved stretches of the historic National Road (US Route 40), with several handsome 19th-century taverns and waypoints still standing along its length. The Twin Creek Metro Park offers excellent hiking and nature study. Major employers include Preble County Commissioners, healthcare services, and various manufacturers. The county has a traditional, quiet character with strong community institutions including 4-H, FFA, and the well-attended Preble County Fair. The county is bordered by Darke and Montgomery counties and benefits from proximity to the Dayton metropolitan area.

▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Major employers include Reid Health (regional), Preble County Schools, and several agricultural processors and manufacturers. The county has a strong farming economy focused on corn, soybeans, and livestock.

▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Preble County Economic Development works with the Dayton Development Coalition and JobsOhio for business retention. The county's rural location limits industrial recruitment but agricultural processing remains a target sector. Broadband expansion is a priority.

▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-35 and SR-32 are primary roads. Proximity to the Indiana border (I-70) provides logistics potential. Rural broadband expansion is underway using state and USDA grants.