Fairmont, WV vs Parkersburg, WV

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Parkersburg is 15.8% cheaper than Fairmont. With a cost index of 63 vs 73, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Parkersburg to Fairmont should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fairmont is $902/month compared to $746/month in Parkersburg — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Parkersburg is more affordable at $113,900 median vs $159,100.

Median household income in Fairmont is $60,791 compared to $44,675 in Parkersburg (+36.1%). While Fairmont is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Fairmont spend roughly 17.8% of their income on rent, less than the 20% in Parkersburg.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (54.9°F vs 54.9°F). Fairmont receives more rainfall at 44.8" per year compared to 44.2" in Parkersburg.