The Mid-Ohio Valley

Small-town America along the Ohio River. Affordable, historic, and real. Not for everyone. That's the point.

Why We're Here

We didn't choose coastal cities or trendy mountain towns. We chose working-class river towns with history, affordability, and room to build something real.

70%

Lower cost of living than national average

3

Historic towns within 30 min

4

Distinct seasons per year

1788

Year Marietta was founded (Ohio's first city)

The Honest Take

What You Get

  • Genuinely affordable housing and cost of living
  • Space - land, yards, room to breathe
  • Friendly locals and real community
  • Historic architecture at accessible prices
  • Low traffic, no crowds, peaceful pace
  • The Ohio River - beautiful and underrated
  • Four distinct seasons with real weather
  • Opportunity to make a visible impact

What You Don't Get

  • Major airport nearby (2+ hours to Columbus/Pittsburgh)
  • Extensive public transit
  • Big city amenities and nightlife
  • Diverse restaurant scene (improving, but limited)
  • Urban density or walkable urbanism
  • Large professional networking opportunities
  • Escape from conservative rural culture
  • Year-round warm weather
This Is Rural/Small-Town America

If you need a major airport, public transit, or urban culture - this isn't for you. We're building something in a place that needs investment, not a place that's already "arrived."

Our Three Towns

Ravenswood

Ravenswood, WV

Population: ~3,800

Our main cluster. Small town on the river with historic homes and quiet streets. The most "village" feel of our locations. Walking distance between our four properties.

  • Downtown: coffee shop, hardware, basics
  • 15 min to Parkersburg for more options
  • River access and parks
Learn More
Parkersburg

Parkersburg, WV

Population: ~28,000

The regional hub. More amenities - hospital, shopping, restaurants. Historic downtown being revitalized. Larger but still manageable.

  • WVU-Parkersburg campus
  • Camden Clark Medical Center
  • Most shopping and services
Learn More
Marietta

Marietta, OH

Population: ~13,000

Ohio's first city. College town (Marietta College), charming brick downtown, historic homes. The most "polished" of our locations.

  • Marietta College campus
  • Best downtown dining/shops
  • Strong arts and culture scene
Learn More

Four-Season Living

We have real seasons. That means preparing for each one, dressing appropriately, and adjusting your rhythm throughout the year.

Spring
Spring

Mar-May: 45-70°F. Planting season. Rain, then blooms. Wildflowers along the river. Mud season for a few weeks.

Summer
Summer

Jun-Aug: 75-90°F. Humid. Peak garden production. Early mornings and late evenings outdoors. AC appreciated.

Fall
Fall

Sep-Nov: 40-70°F. Stunning foliage. Harvest season. Apple picking. Best hiking weather. Cozy nights.

Winter
Winter

Dec-Feb: 25-40°F. Snow (variable). Gray days. Indoor projects. Fireplace weather. Real winter clothing needed.

Cost of Living

Overall Cost of Living Index 30% below national average
Housing Costs 50-60% below national average
Median Home Price $120,000 - $180,000
Groceries Comparable to national
Utilities 10-15% below average
Healthcare Comparable (regional hospital)
What This Means

Your money goes further here. A remote worker earning a coastal salary can save aggressively. A crew member earning modest wages can still live comfortably. This is one reason we chose this region.

Getting Here & Around

Nearest Airports
  • Mid-Ohio Valley Regional (PKB): 15 min - Limited flights
  • Yeager Airport, Charleston (CRW): 1.5 hours
  • Pittsburgh (PIT): 2.5 hours - Major hub
  • Columbus (CMH): 2.5 hours - Major hub
Getting Around
  • Car recommended: Limited public transit
  • Between towns: 15-30 min drives
  • Within towns: Bikeable in good weather
  • Crew often shares rides for errands
Transportation Reality

You need access to a car. There's no Uber, limited taxi, and no subway. This is rural America. Plan accordingly.

What's Actually Here

Nature & Outdoors
  • Ohio River access - kayaking, fishing
  • North Bend State Park
  • Blennerhassett Island
  • Rails-to-trails bike paths
  • Hunting and fishing (with license)
Culture & History
  • Marietta's historic downtown
  • Ohio River Museum
  • Campus Martius Museum
  • Local theater and music
  • Farmers markets (seasonal)
Practical Needs
  • Grocery stores (Kroger, Walmart)
  • Home improvement stores
  • Healthcare (regional hospital)
  • Libraries and coworking
  • Reliable internet available

Who This Region Is For

Good Fit

  • Remote workers seeking low cost of living
  • People who value space and quiet
  • Those interested in homesteading
  • People who want to build something
  • Those comfortable with small-town life
  • Car owners or willing to get one

Not a Fit

  • Need frequent flights for work
  • Require urban amenities
  • Can't live without public transit
  • Need diverse cultural scene
  • Uncomfortable with conservative areas
  • Prefer warm climates year-round

Intrigued?

The Mid-Ohio Valley isn't trendy. It's affordable, historic, and full of potential for those willing to invest in it. We're building something here.

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