Ohio’s dairy farmers do more than just produce milk — they create jobs, contribute to their communities and help drive Ohio’s economy. In fact, the total economic impact of dairy products produced and sold in Ohio is an impressive $33.6 billion.
Dairy farmers and dairy companies are local small business owners, parents, school supporters and active members of community organizations. Their work strengthens the economic well-being of rural America, generating local jobs and revenue while contributing to our nation’s overall economy.
Food and agriculture is the number one contributor to Ohio’s economy, and farming provides one in every eight jobs in the state, according to the Ohio Department of Agriculture.
Ohio’s dairy farm families care for more than 253,000 dairy cows on about 1,350 dairy farms. They are proud to be part of an essential workforce, dedicated to producing nutritious milk and dairy foods. From farm to fridge, U.S. dairy supports a wide network of jobs — from farm workers and truck drivers to construction crews, factory employees, retailers and more.
According to a report by the International Dairy Foods Association, Ohio’s dairy industry provides 129,600 total jobs for Ohioans. Nationally the dairy industry creates more than 3 million U.S. jobs and has a total economic impact of $779 billion.
