Let the numbers do the talking.
Fairmont, WV vs Parkersburg, WV
Fairmont, WV vs Parkersburg, WV: What the data shows
Fairmont, WV is in Fairmont, 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 — $62,400 less than Fairmont, WV's $160,100. WYLT rates Fairmont, WV as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Parkersburg, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Fairmont, WV has the stronger safety profile of the two. Fairmont, WV has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Parkersburg, WV has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Fairmont, WV has Low flood risk and Parkersburg, WV has High flood risk.
Parkersburg, WV is the more walkable neighborhood. Fairmont, WV scores N/A/100 versus Parkersburg, WV's 33/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Fairmont, WV rates 8.3/10 and Parkersburg, WV rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Fairmont, WV | Parkersburg, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $160K | $98K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $907 | $772 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $60K ✓ Higher income | $43K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 33/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Poor |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.3/10 | 8.3/10 |
| Best for | Families with school-aged kidsRetirees looking for a quiet communityRemote workers who can work from home | Families looking for low-cost housingRetirees wanting a small-town vibePeople who can commute by car |
Bottom line
For a family looking for a safe and stable community with decent schools and affordability, Fairmont, WV is the better choice. However, for those seeking a very low-cost home with a tight-knit feel, Parkersburg might be worth considering, but only if they're willing to accept significant environmental and safety risks. Ultimately, Fairmont offers a more well-rounded and livable experience, while Parkersburg is better suited for those prioritizing affordability above all else.
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