With its stunning natural landscapes, affordable cost of living, and endless recreational opportunities, Ottawa County offers a vibrant and inviting environment. Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, the county boasts picturesque views, charming small towns, and a thriving tourism industry. Whether you’re exploring the islands, enjoying water sports, hiking in nature reserves, or attending local festivals, Ottawa County feels like a getaway from the everyday. Here, you’ll find a unique blend of relaxation and adventure that makes it easy to forget you’re still in Ohio.
Our humid continental climate is characterized by typically warm summers, short periods of spring and fall, and with winters that generally range from cool to cold. Precipitation in Ohio is moderate year-round. Ottawa County is known for our beautiful Lake Erie. Residents and visitors enjoy scenic views all throughout the county and historic landmarks, such as the Marblehead Lighthouse and Perry’s Monument.
Ottawa County offers a home to suit every need. Whether you want an apartment or a newly built single-family home, Ottawa County’s housing options accommodate the full spectrum at prices to fit your budget. Add in the surrounding beauty, plus close proximity to the urban areas of Toledo and Cleveland, and you have the perfect combination of an ideal place to start out on your own, raise a family, retire or as a vacation home.
Ottawa County is home a number of healthcare facilities including H.B. Magruder Hospital and Ottawa County Health Department. Our healthcare providers have the best medical professionals, supported by top technology, facilities & services. Whether you have a physician’s order for short-term therapy or are looking for in-home healthcare or non-medical companionship, Ottawa County has several options for you.
All six public school districts and three private K-5 schools all have achieved a minimum of the state’s second highest rating of “effective” or higher. The average student-teacher ratio for the County is 15.5:1, which is level with the state and national averages of 15.3:1. For higher education or training opportunities, students are able to choose from area community colleges and universities close to home.
Historic museums, arts and craft shows, and festivals abound throughout Ottawa County. A nationally recognized wildlife refuge with trails open year round. Along with a celebrated Native American and War of 1812 roots, we also pay tribute to the legendary all-metal Ford Tri-Motor, also known as the Tin Goose – first used in 1939 for air service to the Lake Erie Islands. Ottawa County has a number of locally owned and operated wineries and craft breweries.
Here, you can practice your swing year-round at an indoor golf facility. Relax on our beaches and state parks for boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Jump on one of our local ferries and head over to the Lake Erie Islands. And be back in time for dinner on the waterfront all while watching the sunset. We have various musicians throughout the county and Northwest Ohio who come to have a good time and entertain.
With our cozy lakeside communities, historic downtowns, and rural communities that give off a small town vibe, Ottawa County has it all. Each year, over 11 million people are attracted to our Lake Erie Shores & Islands region and makes Ottawa County one of the Midwest’s most popular destinations for visitors. Ottawa County is the perfect place to invest in and grow, for both your business and your family.
A Child Care Needs Assessment was completed in 2022. Since that time, the following have occurred:
The Firelands Region Housing Study was released in June 2023. The goal behind this study is to invigorate community conversations in hopes to create regional solutions to the housing barrier.
The primary objective of the study is to inform strategies that retain and attract talent by ensuring the regional housing market meets current and future needs. Community participation was integral to the study, with residents and workers in the tri-county area encouraged to provide feedback through surveys.
By fostering collaborative discussions, the study seeks to develop effective, community-driven solutions to the housing challenges faced by Erie, Huron, and Ottawa counties.
Ottawa County is actively engaged in several transportation initiatives aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and safety.
These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to improve transportation infrastructure and safety in Ottawa County and the broader northwest Ohio region.
