How West Virginia Border Counties Support the Ohio Economy
West Virginia’s border counties support Ohio’s economy through shared river cities, daily workforce movement, energy and industrial services, healthcare access, and Appalachian transportation corridors that connect southeastern Ohio to regional markets.
A Shared Ohio–West Virginia Border Economy
Ohio and West Virginia share a long, active border where communities function as a single Appalachian economic zone. Residents, workers, and businesses cross state lines daily, creating interconnected local markets rather than isolated economies.
West Virginia’s border counties support Ohio employers by supplying labor, specialized services, river access, and infrastructure that southeastern Ohio relies on for stability and growth.
Key West Virginia Border Counties Connected to Ohio
Cabell & Wayne Counties, WV
- Shared river cities with Lawrence County, OH.
- Major healthcare, education, and retail access for southern Ohio.
- Daily workforce exchange across the Ohio and Big Sandy Rivers.
Pleasants & Tyler Counties, WV
- Energy production and utility infrastructure.
- Industrial services supporting southeastern Ohio.
- Cross-river commerce along the Ohio River corridor.
Brooke & Hancock Counties, WV
- Shared metro activity with the Ohio Valley.
- Manufacturing, steel, and logistics workforce.
- Retail and service markets serving eastern Ohio.
Workforce Mobility and Daily Cross-Border Life
Thousands of West Virginia residents travel into Ohio each day for work, healthcare, education, and commerce. This shared workforce supports:
- Manufacturing and industrial operations
- Energy, utilities, and infrastructure maintenance
- Healthcare and hospital systems
- Retail, service, and professional sectors
This constant movement helps Ohio employers maintain workforce stability and supports consumer spending across southeastern Ohio.
Rivers, Highways, and Appalachian Corridors
The Ohio River—combined with highways such as I-64, US-35, US-50, and US-52—forms the backbone of commerce between Ohio and West Virginia. These corridors move workers, goods, energy, and services that Ohio communities depend on.
- River transport and industrial access
- Highway corridors linking rural Ohio to regional hubs
- Energy and utility infrastructure spanning state lines
- Reliable access to regional markets and services
Business Collaboration Across the Ohio–West Virginia Line
Local businesses, contractors, chambers, and service providers collaborate across the border to strengthen:
- Small business sustainability in Appalachian communities
- Workforce availability for Ohio employers
- Energy, construction, and infrastructure projects
- Cross-state referrals and shared service markets
“A one-of-a-kind Appalachian collaboration that gives Ohio businesses a true unfair advantage.”