Appalachian Ohio
Appalachian Ohio: A Region of Resilience and Natural Beauty
Is Ohio part of Appalachia?
Appalachia in Ohio spans 32 counties along Ohio’s eastern and southern borders. Characterized by rolling hills, rich history, and resilient communities, it’s a place where the Appalachian Mountains gently fade into the Ohio landscape, creating a distinct cultural and geographical area that’s both part of Ohio and part of the larger Appalachian region.
What is America’s Appalachia region?
Appalachia is a distinct cultural and geographical region spanning 423 counties across 13 states in the eastern United States, from southern New York to northern Mississippi. Officially identified by the U.S. government in the 1960s, Appalachia was recognized for its unique challenges and cultural identity. The region, home to approximately 26.4 million residents, includes parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and all of West Virginia.
Key aspects of Appalachia's identification include:
- Economic challenges, including persistent lag in income, employment, and poverty rates compared to national averages
- Geographic isolation due to mountainous terrain
- Heavy reliance on natural resource industries like coal mining and timber
- Distinct cultural heritage shaped by its history and geography
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), established in 1965 to address the region’s unique needs, uses a county-based definition to efficiently administer federal programs and collect data. This approach has enabled ongoing efforts to support economic development in Appalachian communities while simultaneously working to preserve the region’s rich cultural identity.
Between the Lines
*Although I was born in Youngstown and raised in nearby Salem, I didn’t grow up identifying with Appalachia. In fact, Columbiana County, where Salem is located, wasn’t officially designated as part of Appalachian Ohio until 1990 (S.1589). Youngstown, in Mahoning County, wasn’t added to the ARC’s purview until 2008 (S.496). These expansions of the Appalachian region were based more on economic factors than geography, as neither area is truly mountainous.
Despite not living in the traditional Appalachian Mountains, I’ve come to appreciate our region’s deep connection to Appalachian culture and its economic challenges. Both Columbiana and Mahoning Counties have benefited from grants and initiatives aimed at revitalizing Appalachian communities. This shared experience of economic struggle and resilience has fostered a sense of kinship with the broader Appalachian region.
Defining Appalachian Ohio
Appalachian counties in Ohio
Appalachian Ohio encompasses the following 32 counties out of Ohio’s total 88:
Major cities in the region include Youngstown, Steubenville, Portsmouth, and Athens. While these urban areas serve as economic and cultural hubs, much of Appalachian Ohio is characterized by small towns and rural communities nestled among the hills and forests.
The geography and history of Appalachia Ohio
The Appalachian Mountains in Ohio mark the westernmost extent of this ancient mountain range. While Ohio’s portion of the Appalachians—the Appalachian Plateau—lacks dramatic peaks, it features rolling hills, deep valleys, and rugged terrain that distinguishes it from the flatter regions of western Ohio. Also characterized by heavily forested slopes, winding rivers, and scenic vistas, this area includes popular natural areas such as Hocking Hills State Park, Wayne National Forest, and the Edge of Appalachia Preserve, which showcase the distinctive geology and ecology of Ohio’s Appalachian foothills.
The Appalachians have profoundly shaped not only Ohio’s landscape, but also its history and identity. From the fertile valleys that attracted early settlers to the rich coal seams that fueled industrial growth, these ancient hills have been both a benefit and a challenge for generations of Ohioans. The region’s abundant natural resources spurred the development of timber, mining, steel, and other industries, which brought nearly a century of economic prosperity. However, by the 1970s, these traditional industries were in decline, plunging many Appalachian counties into hardship and leaving a complex environmental and safety legacy, including acid mine drainage, abandoned land, dangerous mines, and river pollution to name a few.
Ohio's Appalachian culture and heritage
Much like the rest of Appalachia, the Appalachian region of Ohio is culturally rich in traditions, music, and crafts. From bluegrass festivals to quilting circles, the region’s cultural heritage is alive and well. The influence of various immigrant groups, including Scots-Irish and Eastern European, is also blended into local customs and cuisines. (Pierogi or Gnocchi, anyone?)
As someone who grew up here, I’ve always been struck by the strong sense of community and the pride people take in their Appalachian roots. This cultural resilience is a key strength of the region, providing a foundation for both preserving traditions and adapting to change.
Education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Appalachian Ohio
Appalachian Ohio faces unique challenges in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, particularly in its rural areas. The region’s educational landscape is marked by limited resources, but institutions like Ohio University and Youngstown State University serve as vital centers for higher education and research. There’s a growing focus on vocational training and workforce development programs to equip residents for emerging job opportunities.
Healthcare access remains a significant concern, with the region experiencing higher rates of chronic diseases and substance abuse compared to state averages. To address these issues, initiatives such as telemedicine and targeted programs to combat the opioid crisis are being implemented.
Simultaneously, improving infrastructure is a key priority, with efforts underway to enhance transportation networks, expand broadband access, and upgrade water and sewer systems. The ARC and various state initiatives are investing in these critical areas to support economic development and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
Looking to the future in Appalachian Ohio
Despite its challenges, Appalachian Ohio is a region of great potential, and many in and around Appalachian Ohio are reimagining its future. There’s a growing focus on economic diversification and revitalization, and efforts are underway to attract new industries, support small businesses, and leverage the region’s natural beauty for tourism. Organizations like the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio are working to build community wealth and create new opportunities for residents.
While the struggle is far from over, the spirit of innovation and community that has long characterized the region is driving efforts to build a more diverse and resilient economy. As someone who called this region home and now lives close by, I’m hopeful about the ongoing efforts to create new economic opportunities, preserve our unique culture, and build a sustainable future for Appalachian Ohio.