Fulton County
View a map of Fulton County
View the 2025 U.S. Census demographic profile for Fulton County
Fulton County — County Seat: Wauseon
2026 Population Estimate: 41,631 | Official Website: https://www.fultoncountyoh.com/
Fulton County is a northwest Ohio county with Wauseon as its county seat. The county is known for its strong agricultural economy and is home to Sauder Woodworking in Archbold — the world's largest manufacturer of ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture and one of the largest privately held companies in Ohio, founded by Erie Sauder in 1934 and headquartered in Archbold, employing thousands. The nearby community of Archbold is also home to Sauder Village — a massive living history museum and heritage village that is one of the Midwest's premier tourist attractions, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. The county has a strong Amish and Mennonite community presence in its southern townships and crafts festivals are regional highlights. Other employers include Fulton County Health Center and various agricultural processing businesses. The county is characterized by flat, fertile farmland punctuated by hardwood woodlots.
▸ Key Industries & Major Employers
Manufacturing, agriculture, and food processing.
Major employers include Sauder Woodworking (world's largest ready-to-assemble furniture maker, headquartered in Archbold), Spangler Candy Company (maker of Dum Dums, headquarters in Bryan area), Ohio Art Company (Etch A Sketch, Bryan), and several agricultural processing operations.
▸ Notable Economic Development Initiatives
Fulton County's Economic Development Department supports its strong manufacturing base with workforce training partnerships through Northwest State Community College. Sauder's continued local investment anchors the county's industrial identity. The county participates in Ohio's TechCred program to upskill manufacturing workers.
▸ Infrastructure & Investment Highlights
US-20 and SR-2 provide east-west access. The Ohio Turnpike (I-80/90) runs through the southern portion of the county, providing critical freight connectivity. Norfolk Southern rail serves key manufacturers. Rural broadband expansion is underway in agricultural townships.
