Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Parkersburg, WV
Considering a move to Parkersburg, WV? This welcoming city of nearly 30,000 offers an affordable lifestyle with median home prices around $124,000 and rents averaging $730. Enjoy relatively short 19-minute commutes, a friendly small-town vibe, and a cost of living well below the national average. While property crime rates are higher than average, you'll benefit from easy access to local healthcare, ample sunny days (58% per year), and community schools including West Virginia University at Parkersburg. Parkersburg is a great choice for budget-conscious movers seeking a relaxed pace and local charm.
Demographics - Parkersburg, WV
Demographics - Parkersburg, WV
Parkersburg has a population of nearly 30,000 residents, with a median age of 42 and a population density of 2,100 people per square mile. The city is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other ethnic groups, and features a slightly higher proportion of females. Most of the community speaks English at home, creating a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Population:
29,738
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.3%
Black:
2.5%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
4.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Parkersburg, WV?
Living in Parkersburg is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 76.1, well below the national average. Median home values are around $124,000 and average rents are $730, making it attractive for both homebuyers and renters. Daily expenses, including utilities and groceries, remain budget-friendly for most households.
Median House Value:
$124,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,095
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.1
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
52.8
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
80.7
Health Care:
87.6
Miscellaneous:
89.1
Crime
Is Parkersburg, WV a safe place to live?
While Parkersburg experiences higher property crime rates than the national average, with a 1 in 29 chance annually, violent crime remains relatively uncommon at 308 incidents per 100,000 people. Residents should remain mindful of property security but can generally feel safe in their neighborhoods. Community initiatives and local law enforcement continue to address safety concerns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
308
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,420
Crime Index:
3,728
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 324
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Parkersburg, WV year-round?
Parkersburg features four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and mild winters averaging lows of 25°F. The city enjoys about 58% sunny days and nearly 40 inches of annual rainfall, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Residents can expect comfortable springs and colorful autumns.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
The city’s median household income is $43,200, with about 22% of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is just under 20 minutes. Parkersburg offers a close-knit community with affordable rents and a modest unemployment rate of 5.7%.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$43,200
Family Income:
$52,700
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$29,700
Poverty Rate:
22.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.9%
Bachelors or More:
18.4%
Education
How are the schools in Parkersburg, WV?
Parkersburg offers quality education through public schools like Parkersburg High School and Van Devender Middle School, as well as private options and higher education at West Virginia University at Parkersburg. Class sizes are moderate, and the city emphasizes educational attainment, with nearly 89% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher. Local colleges provide convenient opportunities for advanced learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Parkersburg High School
Street:
2101 Dudley Ave
Phone:
304-420-9610
Students:
1,740
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Van Devender Middle School
Street:
918 31st St
Phone:
304-420-9595
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Private Schools
Name:
Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School
Street:
810 Juliana St
Phone:
304-422-6694
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
West Virginia University at Parkersburg
City:
Parkersburg
State:
WV
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,700
Name:
Marietta College
City:
Marietta
State:
OH
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Parkersburg residents benefit from access to Camden Clark Medical Center, a full-service hospital with emergency care. The city has 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 91%. Healthcare services are accessible and convenient for most families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Camden Clark Medical Center
Address:
800 Garfield Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101
Phone:
(304) 424-2111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Parkersburg, WV?
The local housing market is affordable and stable, with median home prices at $124,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $730. About 61% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest home appreciation makes Parkersburg appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$124,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$730
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Parkersburg residents are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Charleston and comprehensive services available online. The DMV provides assistance with licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential transportation needs. Helpful resources are accessible by phone or through the official state website.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5707 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304
Phone:
1-800-642-9066
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.