Valley Hi is a village located in Logan County in the state of Ohio, United States. As of the 2020 United States Census, the village had a population of approximately 166 residents, making it one of the smallest incorporated municipalities in the state.
Geography
Valley Hi is situated in the western part of Ohio, within the confines of Logan County. The village lies at latitude 40.2586° N and longitude 83.9610° W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the total area of Valley Hi is 0.17 square miles (0.44 km²), all of which is land. The village is positioned near the headwaters of the Great Miami River and is surrounded by a primarily rural, agricultural landscape.
History
Valley Hi was incorporated as a village in 1949. Its name derives from its location in a valley that historically served as a “high” point of settlement relative to surrounding low-lying farmland. The establishment of the village was closely tied to the development of local infrastructure, including the construction of a post office and the provision of municipal services to a sparsely populated area.
Demographics
Based on the 2020 Census data:
- Population: 166
- Population density: Approximately 976 persons per square mile (377 persons per km²)
- Racial composition: Predominantly White, with small representations of other racial and ethnic groups.
- Household composition: The village consists largely of family households, with a median age higher than the national average, reflecting an aging population.
Government
Valley Hi operates under a mayor–council form of government, typical of small Ohio villages. The village council is responsible for local ordinances, budgeting, and municipal services. Due to its small size, many services are shared with Logan County or neighboring municipalities.
Economy and Infrastructure
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with many residents engaged in farming or related agribusiness. Commercial activity within the village limits is limited; residents often travel to nearby larger towns, such as Bellefontaine and Russells Point, for retail, health care, and employment opportunities. The village is accessed via State Route 47, which connects it to the regional highway network.
Education
Valley Hi is served by the Riverside Local School District, which provides public education for elementary through high school levels. Students typically attend schools located in the nearby community of Oak Hill.
Notable Features
- Proximity to Natural Areas: The village is near several state parks and conservation areas, including the nearby Indian Lake State Park, offering recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
- Community Events: Valley Hi hosts occasional community gatherings and events that foster local identity, though these are modest in scale due to the village’s small population.
References
- United States Census Bureau, 2020 Decennial Census Data.
- Logan County Historical Society publications.
- Ohio Revised Code, municipal incorporation statutes.
This entry summarizes publicly available, verifiable information about Valley Hi, Ohio, and does not include speculative or unverified content.