With a population of approximately 11.8 million, Ohio is the seventh most populous state in the U.S. While its population growth has slowed compared to southern and western states, it remains demographically stable and highly populated. The population is distributed relatively evenly among several major metropolitan areas rather than being concentrated in a single dominant city.
Demographically, Ohio is predominantly White (approximately 77%), with a significant African American population (roughly 13%) heavily concentrated in urban centers like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Dayton. Hispanic/Latino and Asian populations are smaller—around 4% and 3%, respectively—but represent the fastest-growing demographic groups in the state. Ohio is also home to the world's largest Amish population, primarily centered in Holmes and Wayne counties.
Religious affiliation is predominantly Christian, with strong Catholic presences in the northern and western cities, and various Protestant denominations throughout. Education rates are climbing; around 90% of adults have a high school diploma, and roughly 29% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The median household income tends to track slightly below the national average, offset by a very favorable cost of living.