Parkersburg, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
29,240
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,025/yr
9.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,236
0.0% year-over-year change

Parkersburg population

How many people live in Parkersburg

Parkersburg is home to 29,240 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Parkersburg locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
29,240
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
14,486
Female
50.5%
14,754
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,486 49.5% 0.9%
Female 14,754 50.5% -2.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Parkersburg is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
21.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,530 15.5% -5.1%
15 to 24 3,484 11.9% -3.1%
25 to 44 7,482 25.6% 1.8%
45 to 64 7,425 25.4% -0.8%
Over 65 6,319 21.6% 0.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Parkersburg, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 28,782 98.4% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 323 1.1% -11.0%
Non-citizens 135 0.5% 7.1%
Racial breakdown
White
92.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 27,071 92.6%
Black or African American 472 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 38 0.1%
Asian 166 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 89 0.3%
Two or more races 1,273 4.4%
Other 131 0.4%

Households in Parkersburg

A peek inside Parkersburg households

Parkersburg has 13,313 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.5% are families, while the remaining 46.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,313
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,193
Family households
7,120
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,193 46.5% -0.5%
Family households 7,120 53.5% 1.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Parkersburg

The housing landscape of Parkersburg

Parkersburg's housing consists of 15,236 units, with 74.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,236
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,312 74.2%
1 unit, attached 143 0.9%
2 units 778 5.1%
3 or 4 units 1,107 7.3%
5 to 9 units 434 2.8%
10 to 19 units 526 3.4%
20 to 49 units 378 2.5%
50 or more units 382 2.5%
Mobile home 176 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
75
-2.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Parkersburg

In Parkersburg, the median construction year is 1956. About 24% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,661 24% -10.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,675 11% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,804 25% 9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,786 11.7% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,942 12.8% 9.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 982 6.4% 2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 580 3.8% -18.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 311 2% 21.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 420 2.8% 13.5%
Built in 2020 or later 75 0.5% -2.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Parkersburg occupancy rates

Out of the 13,313 occupied housing units in Parkersburg, 65% are owner-occupied, while 35% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,313
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,660
Owner occupied
8,653
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,660 35% -3.6%
Owner occupied 8,653 65% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
12.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Parkersburg housing costs

Housing costs in Parkersburg come to a median of $716 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $785.

Median housing costs per month
$716/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Parkersburg
$785/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Parkersburg

Parkersburg education at a glance

About 49.3% of the population in Parkersburg went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.3% earned an associate degree and 13.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 596 2.6% -26.4%
High school diploma 11,513 49.3% -3.3%
College diploma 4,513 19.3% 2.7%
Associate degree 2,178 9.3% -3.6%
Bachelor's degree 3,067 13.1% 16.3%
Graduate degree 1,474 6.3% 7.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Parkersburg

How much people earn in Parkersburg

The average annual household income in Parkersburg was $66,002 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,025, reflecting a +9.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Parkersburg
$66,002/year
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Parkersburg
$49,025/year
9.7% year-over-year change

Parkersburg income by age

In Parkersburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $50,900. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,463 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,143, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,469 in earnings. Overall, 77.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,143 3.3%
25 - 44 $50,900 18.6%
45 - 64 $60,463 8.8%
Over 65 $38,469 2.8%
Above poverty level
22,242
Below poverty level
6,337
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 22,242 77.8% -0.1%
Below poverty level 6,337 22.2% -3.4%

Average renter income in Parkersburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Parkersburg, their median household income was $28,077 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,077
Rent-to-income ratio
33.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Parkersburg

Workforce and job types in Parkersburg

The job market in Parkersburg is powered by 12,483 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.3% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,483
4.3% year-over-year change
White collar
9,265
Blue collar
3,218
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,265 74.2% 3.5%
Blue collar 3,218 25.8% 6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.3%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
9.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 661 5.3% -18.8%
Private companies 8,893 71.2% 4.9%
Governmental workers 1,727 13.8% 10.3%
Not for profit companies 1,202 9.6% 7.9%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
2.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Parkersburg stands at 7.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Parkersburg

How people get around in Parkersburg

In Parkersburg, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
10.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,187 82.3% 4.1%
Taxicab 32 0.3% -20.0%
Bus or trolleybus 248 2% 18.1%
Bicycle 43 0.4% -30.6%
Walk 473 3.8% -7.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Parkersburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26101 28,005 12,036 $48,710 $66,232
26104 16,805 7,553 $54,331 $76,763

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FAQs about Parkersburg demographics 

What is the total population of Parkersburg?

Parkersburg has a total population of 29,240 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Parkersburg?

The gender ratio in Parkersburg is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (14,486 residents)
  • 50.5% females (14,754 residents)

What is the median age in Parkersburg?

The median age in Parkersburg is 42.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Parkersburg?

The age distribution in Parkersburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (4,530 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (3,484 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (7,482 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (7,425 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.6% (6,319 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Parkersburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Parkersburg is as follows:
  • White: 92.6% (27,071 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (472 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (38 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (166 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (89 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (1,273 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (131 residents)

What percentage of the population in Parkersburg are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Parkersburg.

How many housing units are there in Parkersburg?

There are 15,236 housing units in Parkersburg, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Parkersburg and what is the average household size?

Parkersburg has a total of 13,313 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Parkersburg?

Parkersburg has a median household income of $49,025, representing a +9.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Parkersburg?

The employment rate is 92.1% in Parkersburg, with a workforce of 12,483 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.2% (9,265 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.8% (3,218 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.3% (661 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (8,893 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (1,727 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.6% (1,202 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025