Parsons, WV
Population 1,481 · West Virginia
About Parsons, WV
Parsons is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,481 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.6 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Parsons features a median home value of $101,500, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Parsons one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $808, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 661 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (409 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (155 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Parsons shows an unemployment rate of 14.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Parsons have an average one-way commute time of 35 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.5% of Parsons residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 5.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Parsons, WV
Compared to national averages, Parsons has a median household income of $44,375 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $101,500, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $808 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Parsons's income is 18% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 21% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Parsons, WV?
Parsons offers affordable housing with a median home value of $101,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $808/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,375) that falls below the national average. However, Parsons’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Parsons has a population of 1,481 with a median age of 46.6 years. Compare Parsons with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Parsons
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mabscott | 1,488 | $58,125 | $119,100 | Compare |
| Alum Creek | 1,472 | $72,250 | $158,900 | Compare |
| Mallory | 1,453 | $0 | $101,000 | Compare |
| Glen Dale | 1,517 | $87,955 | $200,500 | Compare |
| Marmet | 1,520 | $47,620 | $83,100 | Compare |
| Mount Gay-Shamrock | 1,440 | $49,063 | $81,400 | Compare |
| Ronceverte | 1,523 | $43,445 | $117,500 | Compare |
| Wayne | 1,433 | $31,797 | $74,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in West Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Parsons With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Parsons
What is the population of Parsons, WV?
The population of Parsons, WV is 1,481 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in West Virginia.
What is the median household income in Parsons?
The median household income in Parsons, WV is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Parsons?
The median home value in Parsons, WV is $101,500, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Parsons?
The median monthly rent in Parsons, WV is $808, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Parsons?
The unemployment rate in Parsons, WV is 14.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Parsons, WV a good place to live?
Parsons offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,481 and a median age of 46.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Parsons, WV?
15.5% of residents in Parsons aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Parsons?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Parsons, WV: median home value is $101,500 (59% below national), median rent is $808/month, and median household income is $44,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Parsons?
The poverty rate in Parsons, WV is 21.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Parsons, WV?
Parsons's population is 0.0% White, 5.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.