Why Live in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, Ohio, is a small city of about 18,000 people located along the Ohio and Scioto rivers. Known for its abundant outdoor activities, residents enjoy fishing, hiking, archery, and horseback riding along the river, as well as camping, hunting, and foraging in the nearby Shawnee State Forest. The city has a mix of historic American Foursquares, bungalows, and ranch-style homes, with many older houses being rehabbed. Major employers include the Southern Ohio Medical Center, Shawnee State University, and several substance abuse rehabilitation centers. The Portsmouth City School District serves around 1,600 students, while the private Notre Dame Schools offer highly rated education options. Dining in downtown Portsmouth features notable spots like The Scioto Ribber, Toro Loco Mexican Restaurant, and The Portsmouth Brewing Co. Despite a history of drug-related crime, the property crime rate has decreased since 2020, though flooding remains a concern due to the city's river location. U.S. Routes 23 and 52 provide access, with Amtrak's Cardinal route station 3 miles south in South Shore, Kentucky, and the Tri-State Airport 53 miles southeast in Ceredo, West Virginia. The annual River Days Festival, held every Labor Day weekend, is a local highlight featuring a pageant, parade, food trucks, carnival games, and live music.
