Regional Information

Toledo is a city of business, culture and education, rich in diversity and community. Located in Northwest Ohio, Toledo is situated along Lake Erie and bisected by the Maumee River. More than 601,000 people call the Toledo metropolitan area home—giving the region all the attributes of a large cosmopolitan area, but still retaining the advantages of small-town atmosphere and charm. The Toledo MSA area includes Lucas, Fulton, Wood and Ottawa counties.

Traditionally a manufacturing region, this area is reinventing itself as a leader in technology and research. Capitalizing on the expertise in manufacturing and an experienced and educated workforce, new technologies are emerging enabling the region to become a national leader in solar technology and manufacturing. Utilizing the natural resources available has also led to advancements in wind technology. Northwest Ohio is in a state of reinvention and refocus which is leading to new economic development opportunities and advancement.

With its rich diversity of people, the Toledo area boasts a nationally recognized zoo, a world-class art museum, a symphony orchestra, opera, ballet and theater groups, as well as a wide variety of neighborhood and ethnic festivals. An abundance of outdoor recreation and sports—including the Metroparks system—is also available on the area’s lakes and rivers. With its close proximity to the Lake Erie Islands and Cedar Point, Toledo is a natural destination point for summer recreation. Toledo is also home to the Mud Hens Triple A minor league baseball team and the annual Jamie Farr Owens Corning Classic, presented by Kroger, LPGA Golf Tournament.

Exceptional educational opportunities are also available. Besides an extensive public school system and private education choices, secondary education opportunities are numerous. There are 33 schools of higher education within 50 miles of Toledo, accounting for one of highest such concentrations in the United States. With an enrollment of nearly 193,000 undergraduate and graduate students in regional universities and colleges, Northwest Ohio offers a comprehensive selection of higher education programs including nationally recognized schools of engineering, pharmacy, education, business, law and medicine.

Toledo is a crossroads community with big-city amenities yet the convenience and appeal of a small town. National recognition for icons such as Jeep, Mud Hens and Tony Packo’s hot dogs; natural resources such as Lake Erie, the Maumee River and area Metroparks; and attractions such as the Toledo Zoo, and the Toledo Museum of Art give Toledo its identity. Add in important everyday resources like clean water, affordable living and friendly people and it becomes obvious to both visitors and residents alike that Toledo is a highly desirable place to call home, for a day…or a lifetime.

Toledo Region Story

For more information read our 2009 Community Resource Guide