South Amherst
citySouth Amherst is a village located in Lorain County, Ohio, nestled between the cities of Amherst and Oberlin, approximately 30 miles west of Cleveland. As of 2024, the population is estimated to be around 1,912, reflecting a close-knit community with a blend of rural traditions and a welcoming spirit. South Amherst offers a peaceful residential environment with convenient access to larger urban centers. The village's economy has evolved from its early days centered around sandstone quarrying to a more diverse mix of sectors. Today, key industries include retail, healthcare, manufacturing, education, and construction. While specific major employers within the village are not readily available, its proximity to larger cities provides residents with access to a broader range of employment opportunities. South Amherst's history is rooted in the early 19th century, with the establishment of a settlement along South Ridge Road in 1814. The village played a significant role in the sandstone industry, boasting the world's largest sandstone quarry, the Buckeye Quarry. Incorporated in 1918, South Amherst has maintained its charming, historic character while adapting to modern times.
South Amherst, Ohio
- Classification
- Village
- FIPS Code
- 39-73040
- Country
- United States
- County
- Lorain County
- Region
- Northern Ohio
- Elevation
- 774 ft
- Total Area
- 2.49 sq mi
- Land Area
- 2.47 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.02 sq mi
- Latitude
- 41.355
- Longitude
- -82.24667
- Climate
- Moderate climate with four distinct seasons
- Neighboring Areas
- Amherst · Oberlin
- Population (2020)
- 1,581
- Est. Population (2026)
- 1,561
- Median Age
- 45.4
- Median Income
- $86,194
- Poverty Rate
- 6.59%
- Owner-Occupied
- 80.4%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of South Amherst is 90.38% White, with smaller percentages of other races and multiracial populations.
- Government Type
- Mayor-Council
- Governing Body
- Village Council
- School District
- Firelands Local School District
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Utility (Water/Stormwater) · Cemetery · Building & Zoning Department · Park · Records

















- Economic Profile
- Residential · Small businesses
- Employment Sectors
- Health Care & Social Assistance · Manufacturing · Construction · Retail · Education
- School Districts
- Firelands Local School District
- Transportation
- State Route 113 · Proximity to major highways
- Utilities
- Municipal water
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- South Amherst Community Park
- Parks & Trails
- South Amherst Community Park with walking path and pavilion
- Founded
- 1814
- Incorporated
- 1918
- Named After
- The location on the southern part of Amherst Township
- Historical Significance
- South Amherst played a significant role in the sandstone industry and has maintained its historic character.
- Key Events
- First settlers arrived in 1814 · Sandstone quarrying became a dominant industry · The village was incorporated in 1918
