Ohio has 88 USDA soil survey areas covering a wide range of landscapes and soil conditions. The most common soil order is Alfisols — moderately leached forest soils with a clay-enriched subsoil, making up roughly 62% of surveyed soils. Entisols — young soils with little profile development, often on floodplains or steep slopes account for another 11%.
In terms of drainage, 35% of Ohio soils are classified as well drained. About 42% of soils have some form of poor drainage, which is important to consider for septic systems and foundations. Drainage class affects everything from septic system design to basement feasibility to garden planning. Use the survey area pages below to see drainage details for specific counties, or look up any address for an exact soil profile.
Alfisols
62% of surveyed soils
Moderately weathered forest soils with clay-enriched subsoil. Productive for agriculture, generally good for building and septic.
Entisols
11% of surveyed soils
Young soils with little development — found on floodplains, dunes, and steep slopes. Properties vary widely by setting.
Inceptisols
11% of surveyed soils
Young but developing soils found in mountains and river terraces. Variable properties — check drainage and bedrock depth.
Mollisols
9% of surveyed soils
Fertile grassland soils with thick, dark topsoil. Among the best for agriculture, building, and gardening.
Ultisols
5% of surveyed soils
Strongly weathered clay soils of the Southeast. Acidic and naturally low in nutrients. Clay subsoil can slow drainage.
Histosols
1% of surveyed soils
Organic peat and muck soils formed in wetlands. Very poor for building (compressible) and septic. Often in regulated wetlands.