Industry & Economy in Massillon, Ohio – Business Landscape & Opportunity
Manufacturing heritage, modern businesses and economic growth in Massillon, Ohio.
Massillon, Ohio is more than a historic manufacturing town — it’s a modern economy anchored by skilled workforce, diversified industries and ongoing investment in business growth. From its roots in steel and fabrication to current leaders in food production, healthcare and logistics, Massillon positions itself for a future that blends legacy and opportunity. As part of the Canton-Massillon metro area, the city benefits from regional connectivity, supportive economic development infrastructure and a commitment to revitalization that creates value for both companies and residents.
Key Economic Sectors
Here’s a breakdown of the major industries, employers and business dynamics in Massillon:
Manufacturing & Production
Manufacturing remains a core employer in Massillon — with companies such as Shearer’s Foods (snack foods), Greif Packaging, Sterilite and others listed as major local employers.
According to recent data, Manufacturing in Massillon employed about 2,542 people in 2023 (out of a total workforce of about 15.8 k).
Healthcare & Social Assistance
The healthcare sector employs a large share of residents — about 2,693 people in Massillon in 2023.
Companies and institutions support both regional care and workforce needs, making this a stable foundation for the economy.
Retail & Services
Retail trade covers approximately 2,448 jobs in Massillon as of recent data.
These service-oriented roles support households, families and the local economy, adding variety beyond manufacturing.
Business Investment & Economic Development
The Massillon Development Foundation works to attract new businesses and support existing ones, providing incentives and real-estate sites.
Recent articles indicate new investment and job creation projects underway in 2025.
The gross domestic product of the Canton-Massillon MSA grew from about $20.6 billion in 2021 to $24.6 billion in 2023.
Workforce, Location & Infrastructure
Massillon’s workforce is skilled and diverse, supported by local institutions focused on vocational training and career readiness. The city benefits from a central location within Ohio’s industrial corridor, with access to major highways and logistics infrastructure that support manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and distribution. The average commute time for residents is approximately 21.8 minutes, reinforcing Massillon’s appeal as a practical and livable place to work and raise a family.
As economic activity in the Canton–Massillon region continues to grow, the need for stable, attainable housing becomes increasingly important to support the local workforce and long-term community health.
Why This Matters for Community Living
A strong local economy only works when people can afford to live where they work. In Massillon, rising demand and limited housing supply have made affordability a growing concern for individuals, families, and employers alike.
Hunter’s Pointe, a Heartstone community located in Massillon, was developed to help meet this need — offering professionally managed, attainable housing designed for long-term residency. By prioritizing quality construction, thoughtful community design, and predictable housing costs, Heartstone helps ensure that economic growth translates into real opportunity for the people who call Massillon home.
With a workforce-ready population, established infrastructure, and responsible housing development, Massillon is well positioned for sustainable growth that benefits both residents and the broader region.
Future Outlook & Opportunities
With a resurgence of manufacturing, ongoing investments in business expansion, and a strategic development framework supported by the Massillon Development Foundation, Massillon is positioned for renewed growth. Its ties to the broader Canton-Massillon metro provide access to regional talent, markets and supply chains — opening opportunities in logistics, advanced manufacturing and value-added production.
Massillon, Ohio combines the industrial heritage of Ohio’s manufacturing heartland with a forward-looking economy anchored in healthcare, retail and business development. With skilled workers, strategic location and a supportive business ecosystem, Massillon is more than a place to work — it’s a place where industry, community and future-focused growth come together. Whether you’re exploring career possibilities, housing markets or community investment, Massillon stands out as a city with purpose and prospects.
