Where is Oberlin, Ohio

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: August 5, 2026

Oberlin is a city in northern Ohio, located in Lorain County about 35 miles southwest of Cleveland. It is best known as the home of Oberlin College and Conservatory, one of the oldest colleges in the United States. The city also has a strong history connected to abolitionism, the Underground Railroad, music, and progressive education. Oberlin combines a historic college-town center with surrounding farmland.

Location Map of Oberlin, Lorain County, Ohio

Where is Oberlin Located in Lorain County, Ohio

About Map: The map shows the location of Oberlin in Lorain County, in the U.S. state of Ohio.

Oberlin Map, Ohio

About Oberlin Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Oberlin in Lorain County, Ohio. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.

Where is Oberlin Located?

Oberlin is a city located in Lorain County, Ohio, the United States. It lies in northern Ohio, about 35 miles southwest of downtown Cleveland and roughly 10 miles south of Lorain. Elyria is about 10 miles northeast, while Amherst is around 7 miles north. Oberlin is positioned near 41.293° North latitude and 82.217° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 8,357 residents. The city covers about 4.96 square miles, or 12.85 square kilometers, including land and water. Oberlin's identity is closely connected to Oberlin College and Conservatory, founded in 1833. The college was among the first institutions in the United States to admit African American students and women alongside white male students, and the community became an important center of abolitionist activity. Oberlin also played a notable role in the Underground Railroad. Nearby attractions include the Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin Heritage Center, and the Apollo Theatre. Oberlin was founded in 1833 and incorporated in 1857. A unique fact about the city is its strong connection to social reform and education, which has influenced its culture and historic character for nearly two centuries.

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Oberlin City Facts

CityOberlin
StateOhio
CountyLorain County
CountryUnited States
RegionNorthern Ohio and Cleveland Metropolitan Area
Incorporated1857
Founded1833
Total Area4.96 sq mi (12.85 sq km)
Land Area4.94 sq mi (12.79 sq km)
Water Area0.02 sq mi (0.05 sq km)
Elevation750 ft (229 m)
Population (2023 estimate)About 8,300
Population (2020 Census)8,357
Population Density1,692 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time (EST/EDT)
ZIP Codes44074
Area Code440
Major HighwaysUS-20, OH-58, OH-511, and nearby I-90
Public TransitLorain County Transit and regional services
Major AttractionsOberlin College and Conservatory, Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin Heritage Center, Tappan Square, and Apollo Theatre
Official Websitehttps://www.cityofoberlin.com/

Distance from Oberlin, OH to Nearby Cities

  • Amherst, OH – 7 miles (11 km)
  • Elyria, OH – 10 miles (16 km)
  • Lorain, OH – 10 miles (16 km)
  • Wellington, OH – 12 miles (19 km)
  • North Ridgeville, OH – 15 miles (24 km)
  • Avon, OH – 20 miles (32 km)
  • Sandusky, OH – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Medina, OH – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Westlake, OH – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Strongsville, OH – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Cleveland, OH – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Norwalk, OH – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Ashland, OH – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Mansfield, OH – 50 miles (80 km)
  • Akron, OH – 50 miles (80 km)
  • Toledo, OH – 60 miles (97 km)
  • Columbus, OH – 115 miles (185 km)
  • Detroit, MI – 125 miles (201 km)

Top Attractions in Oberlin, OH

  • Oberlin College and Conservatory – A historic liberal arts college and music conservatory founded in 1833 and central to Oberlin's cultural and educational identity.
  • Allen Memorial Art Museum – A renowned college art museum with collections spanning European, American, Asian, and contemporary art.
  • Oberlin Heritage Center – A local museum complex preserving historic buildings and telling the story of Oberlin's abolitionist, educational, and community history.
  • Tappan Square – A historic green space in the center of Oberlin surrounded by college buildings, mature trees, and community landmarks.
  • Apollo Theatre – A historic downtown theater hosting films, performances, concerts, and community events.
  • Oberlin Underground Railroad History – Several local sites and historical resources document Oberlin's role in the abolitionist movement and Underground Railroad.
  • Frank Lloyd Wright Weltzheimer/Johnson House – A nearby Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Usonian home in Oberlin that is open for selected tours and programs.
  • Black River Reservation – A nearby Lorain County Metro Parks area offering hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic river landscapes.

Airports Near Oberlin, OH

  • Lorain County Regional Airport (LPR) – 10 miles
  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) – 25 miles
  • Burke Lakefront Airport (BKL) – 40 miles
  • Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) – 60 miles
  • Toledo Express Airport (TOL) – 65 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Oberlin city website and local government records.

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