As a proud part of Wild Wonderful West Virginia, Parkersburg and the Wood County area offers incomparable natural beauty with the convenience of mild weather. But that’s only the beginning. Low crime rates, low commuting times and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, combined with lower-than-average cost of living, excellent education systems and an abundance of close-proximity outdoor activities make Parkersburg and the Wood County area a premier choice to raise a family, retire, or just enjoy a better overall quality of life.
Safe and Secure
- Cost of living is between 16.6%-19.6% below the national average.
- Lower than average commute times to work.
- Lower than average unemployment rates.
Healthy and Happy
WVU Medicine – Camden-Clark Medical Center celebrates more than a decade of continually receiving the Consumer Choice Award for some of the best quality and image in over 300 markets throughout the US. Major service lines include Cancer, Cardiovascular, Women and Children, Neuro/Ortho/Trauma, Primary and Specialty Medicine as well as Behavioral health.
Grow and Know
Wood County is home to several universities, colleges, and technical schools as well as a dynamic public school system that enrolls 13,000 students. The county excels at education early on more than 30 Pre-K classes. Wood County has a program to meet student needs whether college bound or to enter the workforce. Wood County Technical Center and Caperton Center offer career and technical education.
Local College and University Campuses:
- West Virginia University at Parkersburg
- Ohio Valley University
- American National College
- Mountain State College
See and Do
Parkersburg and Wood County’s convenient location also gives access to boating and water sports on the Ohio River as well as nearby lakes. Hiking, biking, kayaking, rock climbing, ziplining, and geocaching are also nearby. As one of West Virginia’s most historic cities, Parkersburg and the surrounding area features a colorful and fascinating heritage that has been magnificently preserved and presented by our museums and historic sites. In addition, Parkersburg is home to an authentic sternwheeler that offers regular tours down the majestic Ohio River to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and the beautifully recreated and authentically-furnished Blennerhassett Mansion. The City also is home to one of West Virginia’s largest historical residential districts. Because of its convenient location, Parkersburg is a short drive to multiple major metropolitan areas such as Columbus, OH and Pittsburgh, PA.
Each year, from Spring to Fall, the City is filled with multiple events like the nationally-recognized Parkersburg Half Marathon, The TOP (a heralded premier wine and food-tasting event), antique car shows, festivals, as well as musical and theatrical events at venues like downtown’s Point Park and the historic Smoot Theatre. For more information on all the areas attractions, visit the City’s Convention and Visitors Bureau and Downtown PKB.
