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Rural Talent

The U.S. Census Bureau defines rural areas as any population, housing, or territory outside urban areas. Rural areas comprise open country and settlements with fewer than 2,000 housing units and 5,000 residents.

Attracting, retaining, and developing talent from untapped rural areas brings valuable perspectives and diverse skills that can enrich company culture and drive innovation. These communities often have skilled workers eager for stable, meaningful employment opportunities close to home, fostering strong loyalty and retention rates. By broadening recruitment efforts to include rural regions, companies can address workforce shortages and enhance their adaptability in various markets. Emphasizing inclusivity in geographic recruitment builds a more resilient and dynamic workforce.

Man looking into the distance on a rural field

$1 Goes Further in Rural Ohio than in Urban/Suburban Ohio

$700 Per month is the average rent in rural southeast Ohio.
$1200 Per month is the average rent in urban northeast Ohio.
1 HR One way is what rural workers are willing to spend traveling to good paying jobs.

How to Attract Rural Talent

Job seekers in rural communities may lack awareness of available training and educational resources, making it harder to acquire the skills needed for in-demand roles. Partnering with community colleges and technical centers allows companies to offer apprenticeships and certificate programs, directly building the skills their workforce requires. Ohio’s extensive network of community colleges and technical training centers provides rural residents with accessible education and upskilling opportunities tailored to the state’s high-demand industries.

Employers in rural areas can collaborate with local workforce development boards or OhioMeansJobs Centers to identify skill gaps and implement targeted training programs that align with industry needs. Additionally, engaging with local organizations or community gathering places helps employers connect with job seekers and reach underrepresented groups who may not have access to traditional job boards. These partnerships foster a pipeline of trained local talent, ensuring that employers have a sustainable workforce while supporting community growth and economic stability.

Employers can also prioritize digital access by ensuring that hiring processes and onboarding activities are accessible through mobile-friendly formats.

The strong collaboration between Ohio’s public and private sectors promotes workforce initiatives that are designed to engage rural communities, creating a steady pipeline of skilled talent. Ohio’s comparatively lower cost of living and high quality of life in rural areas make these regions attractive for workers seeking stable, long-term employment. By tapping into Ohio’s rural talent, employers can diversify their workforce with committed individuals who are often eager to contribute to their communities and industries.

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