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Cost of Living in Parkersburg

Is it better to rent or buy in Parkersburg? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$47,174
$827/mo

Median in area: $827

$118,164

Median in area: $118,164

$23,633

If you Rent

🔑
$962 /mo
Base Rent$827
Est. Utilities$135
% of Income24.5%
Pre-tax Residual$2,969

If you Buy

🏠
$903 /mo
P&I (6.921%)$624
Taxes & Ins$144
Est. Utilities$135
% of Income23.0%
Pre-tax Residual$3,028

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Parkersburg?

Based on median housing data, buying is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Parkersburg. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $962, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $903 per month (a difference of $59).

How much do utilities cost in Parkersburg?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Parkersburg is approximately $135. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Parkersburg?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Parkersburg without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $38,480 per year.