How Pennsylvania Border Counties Support the Ohio Economy
Pennsylvania’s western border counties support Ohio’s economy through shared metro regions, advanced manufacturing, energy systems, freight corridors, and workforce specialization that directly serve Ohio employers and supply chains.
A Shared Ohio–Pennsylvania Border Economy
Ohio and Pennsylvania share one of the most industrially active borders in the region. Communities along the Ohio–Pennsylvania line function as integrated economic zones where manufacturing, logistics, and labor flow across state boundaries every day.
Pennsylvania’s western counties support Ohio businesses by providing industrial capacity, energy infrastructure, specialized workforce talent, and direct access to eastern markets.
Key Pennsylvania Border Counties Connected to Ohio
Beaver & Lawrence Counties, PA
- Energy production and petrochemical supply chains.
- Manufacturing inputs supporting Eastern Ohio industries.
- River and highway freight movement along the Ohio River.
Allegheny County, PA
- Advanced manufacturing and industrial services.
- Corporate headquarters and professional expertise.
- Supply-chain coordination supporting Ohio employers.
Washington & Westmoreland Counties, PA
- Manufacturing and component production.
- Skilled trades and technical workforce pipelines.
- Distribution and logistics services tied to Ohio markets.
Workforce Expertise and Industrial Capacity
Pennsylvania contributes specialized labor and industrial expertise that Ohio employers rely on, particularly in:
- Advanced manufacturing and fabrication
- Energy production and infrastructure services
- Engineering, logistics, and industrial maintenance
- Professional and corporate services
These workforce connections allow Ohio businesses to expand capacity without duplicating specialized capabilities locally.
Freight Corridors and Market Access
Pennsylvania’s western counties anchor major freight corridors serving Ohio manufacturers and distributors. Interstate highways, rail lines, and Ohio River transport connect Ohio businesses to Mid-Atlantic and northeastern markets.
- Ohio River barge traffic and bulk freight movement
- Interstate and rail connections supporting regional distribution
- Expanded market reach for Ohio-based producers
- Supply-chain resilience across state lines
Business Collaboration Across the Ohio–Pennsylvania Line
Business networks, chambers, and economic organizations collaborate across the border to strengthen:
- Manufacturing and energy partnerships
- Logistics and supply-chain coordination
- Workforce development and talent exchange
- Cross-state referrals and regional growth
“A one-of-a-kind industrial collaboration that gives Ohio businesses a true unfair advantage.”