Why Live in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, a small town in southern Ohio with a population of about 18,000, is situated along the Ohio and Scioto rivers. The area is known for its abundant outdoor activities, thanks to its proximity to the Shawnee State Forest, where residents can enjoy fishing, hiking, archery, horseback riding, camping, hunting, and foraging. The town's housing stock primarily consists of American Foursquares, bungalows, and ranch-style homes, with many older houses being rehabilitated. Major employers include the Southern Ohio Medical Center, Shawnee State University, and several substance abuse rehabilitation centers. The Portsmouth City School District serves around 1,600 students, while the private Notre Dame Schools offer an alternative with a highly rated high school. Shawnee State University enrolls about 3,000 students annually. Downtown Portsmouth features a variety of dining options, including The Scioto Ribber, Toro Loco Mexican Restaurant, and The Portsmouth Brewing Co. The area has seen a decrease in property crime rates since 2020, although drug availability remains a concern. Flooding is a periodic issue due to the town's location at the confluence of two rivers. Transportation options include U.S. Routes 23 and 52, Access Scioto County transit services, an Amtrak station 3 miles away in South Shore, Kentucky, and the Tri-State Airport 53 miles southeast in Ceredo, West Virginia. The annual River Days Festival, held every Labor Day weekend, features a pageant, parade, food trucks, carnival games, and live music, making it a notable event in the community.
