County of cuyahoga
ohio
History & Founding
Located in northeastern Ohio, this county represents a vibrant and complex region with a rich history and diverse landscape. Established in 1810 from portions of Trumbull and Portage counties, its name originates from the Cuyahoga River and the Cuyahoga Valley. "Cuyahoga" is derived from an Iroquoian word meaning "crooked river” or “bend of the river.” The early history is intertwined with the Ohio Country’s westward expansion, witnessing significant settlement and development during the early 19th century. It played a crucial role in Ohio's growth, serving as a vital transportation and trade hub. An interesting anecdote from the era recounts a period in the 1830s when a dispute arose over the location of the county seat, leading to a brief, comical “county seat war” where supporters of different locations actually moved the county records to their preferred site, highlighting the passionate local politics of the time.
Geography & Landscape
The county’s geography is characterized by a mix of urban development and natural beauty. Situated along Lake Erie, it encompasses the western edge of the Appalachian Plateau and the beginning of the Huron Plain. The Cuyahoga River, true to its name, meanders through the region, carving a picturesque valley. While mountains are absent, the terrain varies from rolling hills to relatively flat plains. The climate is humid continental, experiencing four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm, humid summers. The Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a significant natural feature, preserves a beautiful expanse of forested land and river scenery.
Economy & Communities
This county is a microcosm of Ohio's diverse communities. Cleveland, the county seat and largest city, anchors the region, along with numerous other cities and towns including Shaker Heights, Lakewood, and Mayfield Heights. Historically an industrial powerhouse, its economy has transitioned to a more service-oriented model. While manufacturing retains a presence, healthcare, finance, education, and technology are now major employers. The region was once a significant agricultural area, but today, farming is largely confined to smaller operations. Notable employers include the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and Progressive Corporation. The character of the area is predominantly urban and suburban, though pockets of rural landscape persist in the eastern portions of the county.
Points of Interest
Points of interest abound, reflecting the county’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a global destination for music lovers. The West Side Market, a historic public market, offers a taste of the region’s diverse culinary traditions. The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its impressive collection. Cuyahoga Valley National Park provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. The annual Ingenuity Festival showcases art, technology, and innovation. Notable residents throughout history have included athletes, musicians, and business leaders. With a population exceeding 1.3 million, it’s Ohio’s most populous county and a vital center for the state’s economy and culture.
Information
- State
- ohio
- Type
- County
- Population
- 1,393,978
- Land area
- 458 sq mi
- Capital
- Cleveland
- Time zone
- UTC-5
- FIPS
- 39035
55 Cities
| City | Population | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland | 478,403 | 690 ft (210 m) |
| Parma | 85,655 | 880 ft (268 m) |
| Lakewood | 56,646 | 710 ft (216 m) |
| Euclid | 52,717 | 618 ft (188 m) |
| Cleveland Heights | 49,958 | 950 ft (290 m) |
| Strongsville | 43,858 | 932 ft (284 m) |
| North Olmsted | 34,113 | 756 ft (230 m) |
| Westlake | 31,719 | 700 ft (213 m) |
| Garfield Heights | 30,734 | 900 ft (274 m) |
| Shaker Heights | 29,405 | 1,000 ft (305 m) |
| North Royalton | 28,648 | 1,197 ft (365 m) |
| East Cleveland | 27,217 | 820 ft (250 m) |
| Maple Heights | 26,156 | 936 ft (285 m) |
| South Euclid | 23,537 | 950 ft (290 m) |
| Solon | 21,802 | 1,036 ft (316 m) |
| Parma Heights | 21,659 | 870 ft (265 m) |
| Brook Park | 21,218 | 790 ft (241 m) |
| Rocky River | 20,735 | 680 ft (207 m) |
| Mayfield Heights | 19,386 | 1,080 ft (329 m) |
| Berea | 18,970 | 800 ft (244 m) |
| Fairview Park | 17,572 | 750 ft (229 m) |
| Bay Village | 16,087 | 645 ft (197 m) |
| Broadview Heights | 15,967 | 1,150 ft (351 m) |
| Middleburg Heights | 15,542 | 880 ft (268 m) |
| Lyndhurst | 15,279 | 1,015 ft (309 m) |
| Warrensville Heights | 15,109 | 1,039 ft (317 m) |
| Bedford | 14,214 | 960 ft (293 m) |
| University Heights | 14,146 | 1,040 ft (317 m) |
| Brecksville | 13,382 | 960 ft (293 m) |
| Beachwood | 12,186 | 1,190 ft (363 m) |
| Seven Hills | 12,080 | 900 ft (274 m) |
| Brooklyn | 11,586 | 765 ft (233 m) |
| Bedford Heights | 11,375 | 1,040 ft (317 m) |
| Richmond Heights | 10,944 | 880 ft (268 m) |
| Highland Heights | 8,082 | 934 ft (285 m) |
| Olmsted Falls | 7,962 | 774 ft (236 m) |
| Independence | 7,109 | 856 ft (261 m) |
| Pepper Pike | 6,040 | 1,050 ft (320 m) |
| Chagrin Falls | 4,024 | 927 ft (283 m) |
| Mayfield | 3,435 | 927 ft (283 m) |
| Moreland Hills | 3,298 | 1,037 ft (316 m) |
| Orange | 3,236 | - |
| Gates Mills | 2,493 | 750 ft (229 m) |
| Walton Hills | 2,400 | 989 ft (301 m) |
| Newburgh Heights | 2,389 | 690 ft (210 m) |
| Valley View | 2,179 | - |
| Highland Hills | 1,618 | 1,106 ft (337 m) |
| Brooklyn Heights | 1,558 | 710 ft (216 m) |
| Bratenahl | 1,337 | 620 ft (189 m) |
| Bentleyville | 947 | 938 ft (286 m) |
| North Randall | 906 | 1,043 ft (318 m) |
| Woodmere | 828 | 1,171 ft (357 m) |
| Hunting Valley | 735 | 772 ft (235 m) |
| Cuyahoga Heights | 599 | 718 ft (219 m) |
| Glenwillow | 449 | 950 ft (290 m) |