Middletown, Ohio

Middletown, Ohio is a city located in Butler County and Warren County in the southwestern region of the state of Ohio. As per the 2020 Census, the city had a population of 50,987. Middletown is included in the Cincinnati Metropolitan Area, which encompasses a large portion of southwestern Ohio and parts of northern Kentucky.

History

Middletown was founded in 1833 and named because of its location between Dayton and Cincinnati. The city's historical significance is rooted in its industrial past, particularly in the steel and paper industries. The presence of companies like Armco Steel (now AK Steel) played a pivotal role in the city's development.

Education

The city is served by the Middletown City School District. The main institution is Middletown High School, which offers a range of academic and extracurricular activities.

Notable Locations

South Middletown

South Middletown is a former census-designated place in Lemon Township, which was incorporated into the city of Middletown.

Blue Ball

Blue Ball is another notable area that was annexed by Middletown in 1994. The name "Blue Ball" originated from a blue-colored sphere that was a landmark for travelers.

Culture and Media

Hillbilly Elegy

Middletown gained national attention through the book Hillbilly Elegy, written by J.D. Vance. The book delves into the socio-economic challenges faced by the author's family and the community. In 2020, a film adaptation of the book was partially filmed in Middletown, adding to its cultural footprint.

Brooklyn Decker

Model and actress Brooklyn Decker spent part of her early years in Middletown before moving to North Carolina. Decker is known for her work in film and television.

Economy

Historically, Middletown's economy was largely driven by manufacturing, particularly in the steel industry. The presence of companies like AK Steel has been significant. However, like many industrial towns, Middletown has faced economic challenges as manufacturing jobs have declined.

Geography and Climate

Middletown is situated along the Great Miami River, which has historically contributed to its industrial growth. The city experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters.

Transportation

Middletown's location along major highways, including Interstate 75, makes it easily accessible from nearby cities like Dayton and Cincinnati. Public transportation is provided by the Middletown Transit Service.