Ross County, Ohio Business Directory & Community Resources
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View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Ross County
Ross County — County Seat: Chillicothe
2026 Population Estimate: 76,860 | Official Website: https://www.rosscountyohio.gov/
Ross County is a historically rich south-central Ohio county centered on Chillicothe — one of the most historically significant cities in Ohio. Chillicothe served as Ohio's first state capital (1803-1810) and was a capital of the ancient Hopewell culture, whose spectacular earthworks at Mound City — preserved within the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park — are among the most magnificent pre-Columbian monuments in North America, recently inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The county is also home to the beloved outdoor drama Tecumseh! — the longest-running outdoor drama in Ohio, performed seasonally near Chillicothe for over 50 years, telling the story of the great Shawnee leader. Major employers include Adena Regional Medical Center, and the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. Paint Creek State Park and Lake White State Park provide recreation.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Defense, manufacturing, government, and agriculture.
Major employers include Adena Health System, Mead/WestVaco (now Graphic Packaging International—major paper manufacturing plant), Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC—a major federal facility), and Ohio's oldest and first capital city's significant state government presence. Chillicothe Correctional Institution and ODRC facilities are also major employers.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
The Graphic Packaging Chillicothe plant is one of the county's largest private employers. Ross County Economic Development works with OhioSE and JobsOhio. The county is participating in state brownfield remediation for former industrial sites. The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park anchors heritage tourism.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-35 and US-50 provide primary highway access. The Scioto River runs through Chillicothe. Norfolk Southern rail serves industrial users. SR-104 and US-23 provide additional county connections.
