$76,466Average Value$35Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
Small-town community on Wheeling Island
Located in the middle of the Ohio River, Wheeling Island was once the hub of all westward transit. In 1849, with the inauguration of the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, East Coast manufacturers now had rail, land and riverways through which to traverse goods across the country. As a result, throughout the early 19th century many business entrepreneurs moved to Wheeling Island and built expansive Victorian-style homes along the riverfront. Today, while many of these homes still stand, this once bustling industrial town is now a quiet tribute to its long past. "It's really the kind of small community where everyone knows each other," says Jennifer Kittle, a local Realtor with First Choice Realtors. "Driving through Wheeling Island, you'll see people sitting on front porches, hanging out and talking." While some properties back up to the river and have private docks, the majority of homes sit at varied intervals along the neighborhood's paved streets. Connected to the mainland on either side by a series of steel truss bridges, the island sits between Kentucky and Ohio, is no more than 2 miles long—meaning residents can walk or bike to most local destinations. Businesses that have been open for several generations anchor the neighborhood with their regular customers, while access to the river, a wildlife refuge and plenty of nearby hiking trails provides residents with scenic views.
The Fort Henry Bridge connects Wheeling Island with central Wheeling making commuting a breeze.
You'll enjoy the warm ambiance and top notch service at Abbey's in Wheeling Island.
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Riverside Victorian homes with friendly pricing
One unique aspect of Wheeling Island is the relative affordability of its housing market, especially considering the historic nature of the homes and the quality of construction. While some homes date as far back as 1850, most were built from about 1900 to 1920. For as low as $35,000 dollars, folks can choose from unique Craftsman style homes, Classical Revivals, Queen Anne or Victorian-era builds featuring ornate cornices and gingerbread trim. Homes closer to the water's edge are likely to sell for upwards of $250,000 dollars. Whether on narrowly-spaced residential streets or shady riverside lots, wide front patios open up properties for folks to enjoy time outdoors, and large bay windows and turrets allow light into the homes. Homeowners here are also required to purchase flood insurance, which keeps prices in the neighborhood more affordable. "Most residents are aware of this and prepared in advance, so it doesn't impact life too much," says Kittle. "It did just flood in 2023, but before that it hadn't flooded for 20 years."
Larger Victorian homes can be found lining the riverfront of Wheeling Island.
Smaller Victorian homes are within a close proximity to the Ohio River in Wheeling Island.
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Ohio County Schools in the area
Students living here can attend school right on the island at Madison Elementary, which earns a B-rating on Niche. In sixth grade, students move on to Wheeling Middle, which is about 2 miles away across the river and also earns a B rating. Wheeling Park High is a bit farther from the island, about 5 miles east, and earns a B-plus rating on Niche. One unique program Wheeling Park offers is the History of Wheeling Course. Taught by the school's 2023 Teacher of the Year, Ryan Stanton, this class takes place one Saturday a month and is open for the entire Wheeling community to learn about their city's unique history.
Heading out on the Ohio River
When it comes time to head outdoors, most residents on Wheeling Island go for a walk or take their pick between a boat or bike to get out and see the Ohio River. "The river is the star here," says Joey Maroon, a local business owner who explains that folks often put their boats in at the Wheeling Island Marina to go fishing or explore the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge on the northern end of the island. Dedicated to providing a habitat for migratory birds and endangered freshwater mussels, the refuge is an easy spot to find a sandy beach, or just some peace and quiet. Another popular activity is walking or biking thehistoric Wheeling Suspension Bridge. Stretching from Wheeling Island straight into the city of Wheeling, the bridge is currently closed to cars but folks still enjoy walking across it to take in views of the river and surrounding hills.
You'll get used to seeing cargo boats traveling next to Wheeling Island along the Ohio River.
Wheeling Island has a handful of classical revival style houses that are well-maintained.
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Locally-owned options for shopping and dining
Despite living on an island, residents here don't have far to go to find shopping and dining options. For groceries and produce, Jebbia's Market is just 3 miles away on Chapline Street, while, for something to eat, folks can find a selection of locally-owned and family-friendly restaurants right on the island. One popular option is Abbey's Restaurant & Lounge, which has been open since 1990 and attracts a dedicated crowd of patrons with their menu of American classics like wings, ribs and their steak and chicken salad. "My dad owned this place before me, my son works here and so does my niece and cousin--we really try to look after each other around here," says Joey Maroon, owner of Abbey's Restaurant & Lounge. Residents can also try Golden Chopsticks for some Chinese cuisine, or head over to The Fat Apple Bakery for a sweet treat. This bakery is known for its diverse selection of specialty cakes, candies and over 45 flavors of caramel apples.
Jebbia's Market near Wheeling Island is the go-to for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Abbey's Restaurant is a popular choice for a night out among Wheeling Island residents.
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Nights out at the Wheeling Island Casino
For a fun night out, residents on the island and folks from around the area can visit the Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack, located right on the southern tip of the island. Here, some opt to try their luck at the 1,000 different machine games, while others take their pick of table games. In addition to dining options that range from a buffet to fine dining at The Pointe, the casino also offers a racetrack where patrons can bet on greyhound races.
Wheeling Island Casino offers a greyhound racetrack with races taking place seven days a week.
Lines formed at the food trucks as visitors placed their orders at the Eats and Beats Festival.
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Getting around the Wheeling area
When folks living in the neighborhood want to get off the island, a quick drive will take them across Interstate 70 to Downtown Wheeling via the Fort Henry Bridge. With the Ohio River spanning just a mile at its widest, it only takes a few quick minutes to get to busy thoroughfares in Wheeling like Main Street. In the case of a medical emergency, East Ohio Regional Hospital is the closest option and is located just 3 miles west in Martins Ferry. To reach the closest big city, residents can take Interstate 70 about 60 miles east, all the way to Pittsburgh. When traveling out of state or abroad, Pittsburgh International Airport is located about 20 miles outside the city.
Take a journey along the Wheeling Suspension Bridge to the Heritage Trail from Wheeling Island.
Wheeling Island is a short trip from Centre Market for great shopping and refreshments.
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Crime
Wheeling Island receives a CAP index score of 5, which is slightly higher than the national average of 4.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Shelley Crake,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Tunnel Green
Heritage Port
Wheeling Heritage Trail
Bridge Park
Jensen Park
Ohio County Wildlife Refuge - Wheeling Island
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Wheeling Island
US
Homicide
7
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Wheeling Island, Wheeling sell after 101 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Wheeling Island, Wheeling over the last 12 months is $66,322, up 4% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Investor Special! Priced to sell at just $19,500, this property offers incredible potential and a solid return on investment. Sitting on a spacious lot with a large fenced-in yard, there's plenty of room for future improvements or rental appeal. The detached garage is a standout feature—perfect for storage, a workshop, or additional income possibilities. With a little vision and TLC, this could
Investment opportunity - Large duplex w/ good rental history. Property has a gross annual income of approx $20,000! Large bedrooms and bathrooms. All kitchen appliances will convey. Very convenient location directly across the street from a laundromat and close to a well established bar and restaurant.
INVESTORS-INCOME POTENTIAL. 4 bedroom 4 bath house in need of rehab. Could make a great investment for rental property or make a permanent home. This property is in need of repairs before renting or moving in. Check out this property and bring in your own ideas to restore this large home.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Shelley Crake,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
2,383
Median Age
40
Population under 18
25.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$41,040
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$51,670
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
86.9%
College Graduates
13.2%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
4.5%
% Population in Labor Force
50.6%
Below the national average
65.1%
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
51/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
51/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
