Youngstown OH

Youngstown – Known as the heart of the Mahoning Valley, this Ohio gem blends proud industrial roots with a fresh spark of revival. Once a steel town, Youngstown is now a place where culture, nature, and history meet. From enjoying live music downtown to exploring quiet trails in Mill Creek Park, Youngstown brings a cozy small-town feel with surprising charm and character.

• Population: ~60,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers (20-85°F).
• Places To Visit: Mill Creek Park, Butler Institute of American Art, Youngstown Museum of Industry and Labor, Fellows Riverside Gardens, Covelli Centre.
• Top Activities: Hiking and biking in the park, catching a concert downtown, exploring local history, cheering at a Phantoms hockey game, enjoying a farmers market.
• Famous Food: Brier Hill-style pizza, Italian sausage sandwiches, pierogies, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, and wedding soup.

Youngstown, Ohio, has transformed from a traditional steel-producing center into a city focused on healthcare, manufacturing, education, and logistics. The area’s improving economy and workforce development initiatives have supported the rise of new job opportunities.

Top 5 Jobs in Youngstown, OH

Youngstown, OH boasts a variety of spots where students can unwind, let loose, and enjoy their free time. Whether you're into nature, cultural experiences, or local eateries, Youngstown has something for everyone.

Mill Creek Park – With its scenic hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and lush gardens, Mill Creek Park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle. Pack a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty all around.

OH WOW! Science Center – Perfect for those who love interactive exhibits and learning experiences, this science center offers an exciting way to spend an afternoon with friends.

Royal Oaks – For a taste of local flavor, Royal Oaks offers a unique bar experience with great food and lively entertainment. It's a staple spot to relax and enjoy some downtime.

The Butler Institute of American Art – For art enthusiasts, this museum is a treasure trove of American art, offering a quiet and inspiring place to explore various collections and exhibitions.

Youngstown State University Campus – The campus itself is a hub of student activity, with numerous events and activities happening year-round. The library and student center are perfect places to meet up with friends or find a quiet place to chill.

Downtown Youngstown – With its vibrant eateries, coffee shops, and live music venues, downtown Youngstown is an energetic area that's perfect for an evening out with friends.

Youngstown, Ohio, is known for its strong academic environment, with institutions that support students in business, engineering, liberal arts, healthcare, and skilled trades. The city offers both public and private colleges that prepare students for careers in today’s evolving job market.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Youngstown

Youngstown State University (YSU) – As the leading public university in Youngstown, YSU offers over 115 undergraduate and more than 40 graduate programs. Popular fields include engineering, education, business, and healthcare. YSU is also known for its strong commitment to research, community service, and student success.

Eastern Gateway Community College (Youngstown Campus) – Eastern Gateway offers affordable associate degrees and certificate programs designed to prepare students for the workforce or transfer to four-year institutions. Fields like healthcare, information technology, and criminal justice are among their strongest offerings.

Choffin Career and Technical Center – Though not a traditional college, Choffin offers accredited adult education and technical training in healthcare, cosmetology, and skilled trades. It plays a key role in workforce development in the Youngstown region.

Trumbull Career & Technical Center – Adult Training Center – Located near Youngstown, this institution provides adult education programs in healthcare, manufacturing, and welding. Their hands-on courses are designed for immediate career entry or job advancement.

MCCTC-Adult Career Center (Mahoning County Career and Technical Center) – Known for high-demand vocational training programs, MCCTC offers adult programs in welding, medical assisting, HVAC, and more, supporting career-focused education tailored to local industry needs.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Youngstown

Franciscan University of Steubenville (Satellite Programs in Youngstown) – While its main campus is in Steubenville, a number of theological and community-based programs are held in the Youngstown area. The university is known for its faith-based education, theology, nursing, and liberal arts degrees.

Rapha Academy - Youngstown Branch – A private postsecondary education provider focused on faith-based and wellness-oriented programs. While modest in scale, it is growing in reputation for offering holistic education experiences.

National College (formerly in Youngstown) – Though no longer active under this name, this private institution once served the Youngstown community with focused business, IT, and healthcare programs, contributing to the area’s skilled workforce for many years.

South University (Online & Outreach Programs) – With outreach efforts in Youngstown, South University provides online and hybrid programs in areas like nursing, business, and criminal justice. These options cater to local students seeking flexible learning opportunities from a private institution.

American National University (Former Campus) – Previously serving the Youngstown region, this university provided degree programs in healthcare and business. While its physical campus has closed, its legacy continues through alumni contributions in the area.

Youngstown, OH, and its surrounding areas offer excellent high school options, both public and private. These schools emphasize academic success, college readiness, and personal growth for their students.

Top Public High Schools In Youngstown, OH

• Canfield High School, Canfield – Known for high academic performance and college preparedness, Canfield High has a strong reputation across Ohio.
• Poland Seminary High School, Poland – Offers a rigorous curriculum with a focus on college-bound programs and extracurricular activities.
• South Range High School, Canfield – A smaller school offering a supportive learning environment and strong athletics and academic clubs.
• Austintown Fitch High School, Austintown – Provides diverse programs including STEM, performing arts, and advanced placement classes.
• Boardman High School, Boardman – Offers an extensive course selection, including honors and AP options, and a focus on student engagement.

Top Private High Schools In Youngstown, OH

• Ursuline High School, Youngstown – A faith-based Catholic school known for academic excellence, leadership training, and community service.
• Cardinal Mooney High School, Youngstown – Combines strong college prep academics with a mission-based Catholic education.
• Valley Christian School, Youngstown – Offers a Christ-centered curriculum with an emphasis on spiritual and academic development.
• John F. Kennedy Catholic School, Warren – Focuses on holistic education, including faith, academics, and a variety of extracurricular programs.
• Akiva Academy, Youngstown – A smaller private school offering personalized learning and Jewish values-based education.

Youngstown, Ohio, is a city with a rich sports culture, though it does not have any major league professional sports teams. However, the city and its surrounding region proudly support several minor league and semi-professional teams across different sports, and residents often rally behind nearby Cleveland and Pittsburgh teams due to geographic proximity.

🏈 Football – Mahoning Valley United (Semi-Pro)

• Mahoning Valley United – This is a semi-professional football team based in Youngstown. The team competes in regional leagues and provides a platform for talented local athletes who want to stay competitive after college or while seeking higher-level opportunities.

⚾ Baseball – Mahoning Valley Scrappers (MLB Draft League)

• Mahoning Valley Scrappers – Playing at Eastwood Field in nearby Niles, Ohio, the Scrappers are part of the MLB Draft League. They serve as a showcase for draft-eligible players aiming to reach Major League Baseball. The team was formerly the Class A Short Season affiliate of the Cleveland Indians (now Guardians) and has helped develop many young prospects.

🏒 Hockey – Youngstown Phantoms (USHL)

• Youngstown Phantoms – Competing in the United States Hockey League (USHL), the Phantoms are a top-tier junior ice hockey team that plays home games at the Covelli Centre in downtown Youngstown. The USHL is the highest level of junior hockey in the U.S., and many players from the Phantoms go on to play NCAA or professional hockey.

⚽ Soccer – Youngstown Raymen (Indoor League)

• Youngstown Raymen – This indoor soccer team played in smaller, regional indoor leagues and continues to carry the spirit of sports passion in the Youngstown area. The team has had limited seasons but is part of the larger push to promote soccer in Northeast Ohio.

🎓 College Sports – Youngstown State University Penguins

• Youngstown State University (YSU) Penguins – While not professional, YSU’s sports teams are a major part of the city’s sports culture. The football team has a storied history with four NCAA Division I-AA national championships under legendary coach Jim Tressel. YSU also competes in basketball, baseball, and other NCAA sports.

Youngstown, Ohio is a city rich with history, proud traditions, and a strong spirit of community. Known for its industrial roots and musical talent, here are 10 fun facts that shine a spotlight on this unique Midwestern city:

1. Steel City Legacy – Youngstown was once a major steel production hub and helped build America's rise during the 20th century.
2. Birthplace of The Boot – The term "Rust Belt" was inspired by cities like Youngstown that transitioned from booming industry to modern innovation.
3. Youngstown State Pride – Home to Youngstown State University, known for its strong engineering programs and the passionate Penguins football team.
4. Musical Roots – Legendary crooner Dean Martin performed early on in Youngstown's local clubs.
5. Idora Park Memories – Once home to Idora Park, a beloved amusement park that operated for nearly 80 years and drew crowds from all over Ohio.
6. Mahoning River – This river runs through the heart of the city and was central to Youngstown’s industrial success.
7. Rich in Art – The Butler Institute of American Art is located here and was the first museum dedicated solely to American art.
8. Revitalized Downtown – In recent years, Youngstown has seen a revival with new local restaurants, shops, and entertainment spaces.
9. Boxing Champions – Youngstown has produced champion boxers like Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini who brought the city national attention in the sports world.
10. Easy Road Trips – Youngstown is located within a day’s drive of nearly half the U.S. population, making it a hidden gem for travelers and businesses alike.