Let the numbers do the talking.
Elkins, WV vs Parkersburg, WV
Elkins, WV vs Parkersburg, WV: What the data shows
Elkins, WV is in Elkins, WV while Parkersburg, WV is in Parkersburg, WV — both in the same state. On home prices, Parkersburg, WV is the more affordable option at $97,700 median — $45,600 less than Elkins, WV's $143,300. WYLT rates Elkins, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Parkersburg, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Elkins, WV has the stronger safety profile of the two. Elkins, WV has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Parkersburg, WV has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Elkins, WV has Low flood risk and Parkersburg, WV has High flood risk.
Elkins, WV is the more walkable neighborhood. Elkins, WV scores 61/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Parkersburg, WV's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Parkersburg, WV has the higher school rating — Elkins, WV rates 8/10 and Parkersburg, WV rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Elkins, WV | Parkersburg, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $143K | $98K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $754 ✓ Lower rent | $772 |
| Median Income | $48K ✓ Higher income | $43K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 61/100 ✓ More walkable | 33/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Poor |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | budget buyersretireessmall families | Families looking for low-cost housingRetirees wanting a small-town vibePeople who can commute by car |
Bottom line
Both Elkins and Parkersburg are think-twice neighborhoods due to significant drawbacks, but if you're a retiree or a low-income buyer looking for affordable housing, Elkins might be the better choice, offering a quieter atmosphere and slightly better schools. However, if you value affordability above all else, Parkersburg might still be an option despite its severe environmental and safety concerns. Generally, neither neighborhood is ideal unless you accept certain limitations.
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