Portage County, Ohio

About

Portage County is a county located in the U.S. state of Ohio. As of the 2010 census, the population was 161,419 and a population density of 76 people per km². After 10 years in 2020 county had an estimated population of 162,583 inhabitants. Its county seat is Plover, Stevens Point. The county was created 188 years ago in 1836.

Portage County is located in northeast Ohio, about midway between Cleveland and Akron. With a population of around 162,000, it is considered part of the Akron metropolitan area. Some of the major cities and towns in Portage County include Kent, Ravenna, Aurora, Streetsboro, and Windham.

History

Portage County was named for the portage between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas Rivers. The county was originally inhabited by Native American tribes like the Wyandot and Delaware. The first permanent European settlers arrived in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Primary industries in the early days of Portage County were farming, dairy, and manufacturing, aided by the presence of the Ohio and Erie Canal which opened in 1825.

Over the years, Portage County became an important stop on the Underground Railroad, helping escaped slaves make their way to Canada. The county contributed soldiers to the Union Army during the Civil War. In the 20th century, the county experienced population growth and economic expansion.

Attractions and Events

Portage County is home to a number of attractions and events that highlight its history and natural beauty. Kent State University, founded in 1910, is located in Kent and brings a youthful college town vibe to the area. Outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing can be enjoyed at parks such as West Branch State Park and Headwaters Park.

The National First Ladies Library in Canton pays tribute to the nation's first ladies and includes exhibits and historical materials. Aurora hosts an annual Summer Festival in June with a parade, rides, food, and live music. The Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrines football greats in Canton.

Key Facts

• County Seat: Ravenna
• Land area: 504 square miles
• Major waterways: Cuyahoga River, Tuscawaras River
• Crops: Corn, soybeans, wheat
• Largest City: Kent (population ~30,000)

Portage County has a rich history and natural landscapes. With its diversity of attractions and events, it provides an appealing mix of small town charm and easy access to major Ohio cities.

Quick Facts about Portage County

Geography

Portage County is located at 41°10'4"N 81°11'51"W (41.1676800, -81.1974000). It has 6 neighbors: Adams County, Marathon County, Shawano County, Waupaca County, Waushara County and Wood County.

The largest city of Portage County is Kent with a population of 29,319. Other cities include, Streetsboro population 16,699, Aurora population 16,472, Ravenna population 9,246 and Windham population 1,862. See all Portage County cities & populated places.

Portage County Populated Places (more)

Cities, towns, neighborhoods & other populated places in Portage County.

City Name	Population	Title
Deerfield	42,084	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Kent	29,319	City in Portage County, Ohio, United States of America
Streetsboro	16,699	City in Portage County, Ohio, United States
Aurora	16,472	Affluent suburb in Portage County, Ohio, United States
Brimfield	10,332	Census-designated place in Portage County, Ohio
Ravenna	9,246	City in Portage County, Ohio, United States
Rootstown	8,198	High school in Rootstown Township, Portage County, Ohio
Suffield	6,276	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Shalersville	5,649	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Randolph	5,298	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Nelson	3,140	Township in Portage County, Ohio, United States of America
Freedom	2,828	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Atwater	2,708	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Edinburg	2,582	Township in Portage County, Ohio
Hiram	2,401	Town in Ohio, United States
Garrettsville	2,318	Town

People born in Portage County, including physician William Garner Sutherland, politician Harold A. Lytie, light keeper, writer and politician Chart Pitt, .

List

• Portage County , Wisconsin county in Wisconsin, United States with a population of 71,032 people.