How Maryland Border Counties Support the Ohio Economy

Maryland’s border counties support Ohio’s economy through logistics and distribution corridors, Mid-Atlantic market access, healthcare networks, federal and defense contracting pipelines, and freight routes that extend Ohio businesses beyond the Midwest.

Ohio’s Eastern Gateway to the Mid-Atlantic

While Ohio and Maryland do not share a long border, their economic connection is strategic. Maryland’s western counties function as Ohio’s eastern gateway, linking Ohio manufacturers, distributors, and service providers to the Mid-Atlantic region.

These connections expand Ohio’s reach, reduce shipping friction, and open high-value markets that strengthen statewide competitiveness.

Key Maryland Border Counties Connected to Ohio

Washington County, MD

  • Freight, warehousing, and logistics services.
  • Distribution access into the Mid-Atlantic corridor.
  • Support for Ohio manufacturers shipping east.

Allegany & Garrett Counties, MD

  • Energy, utilities, and infrastructure services.
  • Transportation corridors linking Appalachia to Ohio.
  • Industrial and construction workforce support.

Frederick County, MD

  • Access to federal, defense, and government contracting.
  • Professional services and specialized suppliers.
  • Market expansion opportunities for Ohio firms.

Workforce Access and Specialized Services

Maryland provides Ohio businesses access to specialized labor and services that complement Ohio’s industrial base, including:

  • Logistics and supply-chain management
  • Healthcare systems and regional medical hubs
  • Engineering, technology, and professional services
  • Federal and defense-adjacent contracting support

These workforce and service connections allow Ohio companies to compete in higher-value markets without relocating operations.

Transportation Corridors and Market Reach

Interstate highways, rail systems, and distribution corridors through Maryland connect Ohio businesses to ports, population centers, and national supply chains.

  • East–west freight movement into the Mid-Atlantic
  • Efficient access to ports and population centers
  • Reduced transportation costs for Ohio exporters
  • Expanded national and international reach

Business Collaboration Between Ohio and Maryland

Business networks, chambers, and regional organizations collaborate across state lines to strengthen:

  • Logistics and distribution partnerships
  • Federal and infrastructure project pipelines
  • Supply-chain expansion for Ohio companies
  • Cross-state referrals within the network
“A strategic Mid-Atlantic connection that gives Ohio businesses a true unfair advantage.”