Life in Parkersburg revolves around industry and history. In the mid-1800s, four Parkersburg residents helped found the Reorganized Government of Virginia, which led to West Virginia's formal establishment. Around the same time, an unexpected discovery of petroleum wells boomed the city's mining, creating a chain reaction that birthed the entire nation's oil and gas industry. The city's economy still thrives around its fossil fuel and manufacturing industries, as well as federal opportunities. In downtown, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service employs more than 2,500 out of a population of almost 30,000. "There's a lot of people who have been living there for generations," says Michael D'Avria, a former local. "There are people who went off to college in other states just to come back, and now, their kids are going to the same schools that they did."
The Oil & Gas Museum stands as a prominent showcase of the history and evolution of the oil and gas industry, illustrating its critical influence on energy development and technology in Parkersburg.
Residents of Parkersburg can step back into time at The Oil & Gas Museum and relive it.
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Historic homes amplify unique Victorian architecture
Older brick Colonials, American Foursquares and multifamily properties congregate near the center of the city. Diverse Victorian homes dating back to the late 1800s are within the Julia-Ann Square and Parkersburg High School-Washington Avenue historic districts, and ranch-style homes with larger lots sit close to the city's boundaries. The median home price in Parkersburg is around $155,000, substantially lower than the national median of $407,000. The city reduces blight and encourages growth through incentivizing programs like The Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Loan Program, The Emergency Repair Program and The Urban Renewal Authority.
Charming brick colonial adorn the streets of Parkersburg.
Victorian homes are common in Parkersburg.
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I-77 and Highway 50 make commutes quick
Parkersburg is commuter-friendly, experiencing moderate traffic. "You can live in the country or the city, and the commute times are all low," says Christopher Cochrane, a 23-year local and real estate developer. "You can get from one side of town to the other in 10 minutes." The city is at the crossroads of Interstate 77 and Highway 50, which stretch across the state and connect to larger cities, like Columbus and Pittsburg, in about two or three hours. Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority buses travel all over Parkersburg, and the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport is within 11 miles.
Trophy fishing and treasonous history on the Ohio River
With nine public parks and immediate access to the Ohio River, the city supports all sorts of recreation. City Park is Parkersburg's largest park, offering playgrounds, sports courts and a public swimming pool. It also hosts various events, like the Holiday in the Parks Lights Tour and the annual Trout Fishing Derby. Corning Park invites boating with its launches onto Worthington Creek, which connects to the Little Kanawha and Ohio rivers. Point Park is Downtown Parkersburg's diamond. Its 750-seat amphitheater holds several summer concerts against a sweeping riverfront backdrop. People walk or bike to the Island Belle Sternwheeler to catch a ferry to Blennerhassett Island, a spot infamous for its historical connection to Aaron Burr and his treasonous plot against the United States.
Spectacular views from Fort Boreman Historical Park overlooking the Ohio River in Parkersburg.
Enjoy a winters day stroll along the scenic Ohio River at Point Park in Parkersburg.
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Browsing Market Street with a beer in hand
Parkersburg's commercial scene is limited, but organizations like Downtown PKB bring more opportunities to the central business district. Market Street has a Private Outdoor Designated Area, which allows pedestrians to carry alcoholic drinks outdoors while browsing downtown. Throughout the city, national chains and locally owned shops line other primary thoroughfares. Grand Central Avenue is home to Grand Central Mall, the city's largest commercial center.
Residents will love living close to Grand Central Mall for many various dining and shopping options.
Grand Central Mall is known for the city's largest commercial center in Parkersburg.
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WVU's Medical Center teaches and serves
Students attend schools within the Wood County Public School District, which has a B-plus score on Niche. It is ranked the fourth-best school district for athletes in the state. The B-rated Parkersburg High School is particularly known for its athletics, having won 147 state championships. The city also has two unrated technical colleges and a West Virginia University satellite campus, which has a B-minus rating. Camden-Clark Medical Center, one of the university's teaching hospitals, is located downtown, providing community-wide medical services.
Parkersburg High School boasts a B-from niche and particularly known for its athletics, having won 147 state championships.
West Virginia University satellite campus, which boasts a B-minus rating near Parkersburg.
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Christmas homes tour during Winterfest
Downtown is the hub for many city events. The Taste of Parkersburg is one of the largest, attracting thousands of people wanting to wine and dine. Another popular food and drink festival is the Downtown Throwdown BBQ & Brewfest in August. Bicentennial Park brims with vendors selling local craft beer and freshly smoked barbeque. The winter months bring Winterfest, a one-day extravaganza. People gather to tour Julia-Ann Square's Victorian homes or watch a tree-lighting ceremony finished off by fireworks.
Protected valley weather and neighborhood initiatives
Parkersburg has mild weather year-round. "We're off the Appalachian Mountains, so we're kind of in a protected valley. We don't get tornadoes or really big storms," Cochrane says. Temperatures are lowest in January, and July is typically the hottest and rainiest month. A muraled flood wall separates the city from the Ohio River, mitigating most annual flooding.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Parkersburg saw a 28% decrease in violent crime between 2022 and 2023. Still, the city's violent and property crime rates are higher than the nation's averages. The Parkersburg Police Department has instituted a Safer Neighborhoods Initiative that provides rebates of up to $200 to cover security camera installations.
Written By
Isabel Butler
Photography Contributed By
Joseph Furio
Video By
Ellie Brown
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jovar Simmons,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Parkersburg, WV sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Parkersburg, WV over the last 12 months is $158,500, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Absolutely stunning 1917 American Colonial Revival beauty! How rare it is to find such a well-maintained and fastidiously updated classic home where excellence abounds in every corner. From the moment you step foot on the property you'll know you're in the presence of distinction - in care, maintenance, attention to detail, and thoughtful renovations. While the home retains many original lights,
Enjoy the convenience of one-level living in this well-maintained Ranch one level 3-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring spacious rooms throughout. Situated on a peaceful corner lot, this property offers privacy, a fenced yard, and an additional lot providing extra outdoor space and possibilities. The double garage offers ample parking and storage. Recent updates include a new HVAC system installed in
Michele EckelberryLegacy Real Estate Professionals
Absolutely charming home with a wrap around deck perfect for entertaining. Sitting at the end of a quiet road. This well maintained charming home could be yours. Priced to move quickly.
Looking to expand your investment portfolio or offset your mortgage with rental income? This uniqueincome-producing property offers TWO fully occupied residences on a spacious corner lot in a convenientParkersburg location near schools, restaurants, shopping, and healthcare facilities.The property features a 3-bedroom, 1-bath home with a strong history of long-term tenancy, along with
Calling all visionaries: here's a diamond in the rough just waiting for your personal touch. This four-bedroom, two-bathroom house spans roughly 1,516 square feet and offers something increasingly rare in today's market—genuine opportunity to build sweat equity and shape a home entirely your own. Yes, this one needs a little tender loving care, but don't let that scare you off. Think of it as a
Beautifully updated and priced to sell! This move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch sits on a **.8939-acre** lot and offers the perfect blend of comfort, updates and convenience. Fresh interior paint, new carpet and updated lighting create a bright, welcoming atmosphere throughout. The kitchen has been freshly painted and features new Corian countertops, a new refrigerator and a new stovetop.
Homes don't come much more magnificent than this one, anywhere. The grand, imposing columns and leaded-glass entrance door announce why this is one of the most photographed homes in the Julia-Ann Square Historic District, and perhaps the state. The home captivates all who draw near, but the real magic begins when you step through the front door and find yourself dwarfed by the enormous foyer,
Timeless character meets modern convenience in this beautifully updated Tudor-style two-story home situated on a spacious double lot surrounded by mature shade trees. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the home's striking curb appeal featuring fresh exterior paint, new siding, a covered front porch, and classic architectural details that make this home truly one of a kind.Inside,
Escape to peaceful country living with this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath Ranch home nestled on a 3 scenic acre private road. Offering the perfect blend of privacy, functionality, and outdoor enjoyment, this property is a rare find. Wake up each morning to tranquil pond views and enjoy your coffee from the charming new front porch, complete with a stunning copper roof that's only two
4 Lots on Broadway Ave. Ext., South Side, just off Blizzard Dr. All lots are currently vacant with no improvements. A building on Lot 87 that previously housed a business has been removed. Entire site (all 4 lots) currently covered in concrete. Lot 87 zoned B2; Lots 86, 85, and 84 zoned R4. All suitable for general Commercial or Multi-Family Residential use. Also in the MLS as Commercial:
Judy NewbroughBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Professional Realty
Ready and waiting for someone to turn a dream into reality. This lot in the Parkers Towne subdivision has been tended and cared for and is now available for purchase. Approximately 60 feet of frontage and 140 depth. Located far enough out to not feel in town, while still convenient to stores, restaurants and airport. The HOA takes care of the roads and there is even a playground in the works.
Beautiful 1,400 square foot Ranch in an excellent location! This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, a $37,000 kitchen remodel and $10,000 worth of new Anderson windows [receipts provided]. Available for immediate occupancy! Call for an appointment today!
Cute as a Button Bungalow! Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath bungalow that’s full of character and move-in ready! Freshly painted, this home features a partially finished full basement offering additional living space in addition to a utility room used for storage, plus the convenience of first-floor laundry. The second story offers small bedroom or added storage space. A newer
Welcome home to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1 bath ranch nestled on approximately 0.46 acres (more or less) in a peaceful country setting just minutes from the conveniences of Parkersburg. This move in ready home combines modern updates with comfortable one level living and a great outdoor space.
Experience Life on Your TermsWelcome to Brookside Manor, your nest of comfort in the heart of the Mid-Ohio Valley. Our inviting community greets you with practical amenities and comfortable residences in a green setting that reflects the natural beauty of our coveted address. Speaking of which, our apartments in Parkersburg, WV, are close to the riverfront views at Point Park, Fort Boreman Scenic
Super Nice recently remodeled and upgraded Garden and Flat style Apartments in Avery Historic District in Downtown Parkersburg. The neighborhood is turning around, and we are committed to continually upgrading and improving this Iconic Property that was once, and will be again, the nicest property in Parkersburg. Give us a look. Once you see the insides of these apartments and the quality work we
Cozy apartments nestled in a quite safe community. Complex has a pool, tennis court and basketball court. Some buildings are security buildings. Owner pays trash, gas. sewer and water. Tenant pays Electric.
NOW LEASING affordable apartments in Parkersburg! Choose your new 2 or 3-bedroom apartment with all the interior finishes and amenities you can imagine!Residents enjoy popular features like ENERGYStar/efficient light fixtures and heating systems, smart thermostats, in-home washer-dryer, and so much more! Our sleek kitchen and baths will give you the comfort, affordability, and modern feel
Chateau Hills does not accept Section 8 vouchers because we are a Multifamily HUD housing property. Chateau Hills offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in a scenic location with easy access to Route 50. Rent and Security Deposit are based on 30% of your annual income minus any qualified deductions. We offer 24-hour emergency maintenance, on-site management, air conditioning, coin
Welcome to better living at Lakeview Estates, a curated apartment community in the heart of Parkersburg. Our pet-friendly apartments provide well-designed 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans that highlight comfort, style, and spaciousness. Each home is fitted with a double-galley kitchen layout, energy efficient appliances, plush carpeting, large closets, and other enriching amenities. Schedule your
Step into your new home at Oakwood Village. Our 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom floor plans weave together comfort, style, and spaciousness to create the ultimate apartment living experience. Every home is fitted with a double-galley kitchen layout, energy efficient appliances, plush carpeting, large closets, and personal air conditioning. On top of this, residents gain access to signature amenities such
Charming 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, townhome located in a quiet residential neighborhood with lots of space. This home features a finished basement with a decorative fireplace and large open workshop/laundry room with washer and dryer included. The spacious, open kitchen-dining room features an electric stove with built in microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, garbage disposal, full size patio door
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