Hillsboro is located in southwestern Ohio 50 miles east of Cincinnati in Highland County (of which it is the county seat). The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 7,350, an increase of 1,115 since 1990.
Rocky Fork Lake and Rocky Fork State Park are conveniently located 5 miles and 10 miles, respectively, east of town. In addition, Paint Creek Lake is about 15 miles to the northeast. Another nearby attraction is the Seven Caves area about 15 miles east-northeast of town. The park-like setting has seven lighted trails for hikers and nature lovers.
Hillsboro Elks Lodge Golf Course, a 9-hole facility and Rocky Fork Golf & Tennis Center, an 18-hole layout are open to the public.