Wood County Public RecordsWest Virginia

Wood County, WV had 53,241 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with major parties being Republican and Democrat (2022: 24,974 Republicans, 12,538 Democrats). Key issues in recent elections include economic development and school levies. The 2020 general election saw 69% turnout, with Trump winning 69% of votes. Polling locations number 29 across precincts, administered by the Wood County Clerk. Election results and polling site lists are provided on the county website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all voters, including options for early and absentee voting.

Wood County, WV, has 27 public schools, including 3 high schools and multiple elementary and middle schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, while about 22% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school safety scores are above state average, with schools implementing safety programs and SROs. Wood County Schools offer advanced placement, career-technical education, and special education programs. The average public school ranking is 8/10. Adult education opportunities are available through agencies like WVU Parkersburg and adult learning centers throughout the county.

As of 2023, Wood County, WV, has an employment rate of approximately 54%, with a labor force participation rate near 55%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (21%), Manufacturing (14%), and Retail Trade (12%). Top occupations include Office & Administrative Support (13%) and Production (12%). Most workers (87%) commute by car, averaging a 22-minute commute. About 82% work within the county, while 18% commute to neighboring areas.

Wood County, WV, has a homeownership rate of approximately 74%, with median home values near $145,000 and median gross rents around $785/month. The housing market saw a modest 3-5% annual price increase in recent years. Housing types range from historic homes in Parkersburg’s North End to newer developments and rural properties. Notable neighborhoods include Vienna and South Parkersburg. Property tax rates average 0.57% of assessed value, among the lowest in the state, making homeownership relatively affordable. Rental options are concentrated in Parkersburg, the county seat, offering a variety of single-family homes and apartments.

As of the 2020 Census, Wood County, WV, had a population of approximately 84,296. The median age is about 43.2 years, with 20% under age 18 and 20.5% aged 65 or older. Females make up 51.1% of the population. Racially, the county is 94.8% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0.3% Native American, and 1.8% two or more races; 1.2% are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Wood County, WV, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with recent FBI data showing a violent crime rate of 2.6 per 1,000 residents and property crime at 15.3 per 1,000. Parkersburg, the county seat, reports most incidents. Regular reporting to local authorities and the FBI ensures accurate statistics, with 500 property crimes and 80 violent crimes documented in 2023. Enhanced community policing and neighborhood watch programs have helped improve safety, resulting in a gradual decline in overall crime rates over the past five years.