Portsmouth
Portsmouth, OH
Area Guide
The Ohio city “Where Southern Hospitality Begins”
Portsmouth is a small, secluded city on the southern edge of Ohio, with Kentucky clearly visible on the other side of the Ohio River. The city is perhaps best known as the home of Shawnee State University, whose campus on the riverfront serves around 4,500 students and employs hundreds of locals as faculty and staff members.
Boasting a rich history as a major industrial town in the 19th and 20th centuries, the city is backed with beautifully preserved vintage buildings, particularly in the Boneyfiddle Historic District. The surrounding hills and forests are ripe for outdoor exploration, with the sprawling Shawnee State Forest just minutes outside of town.
Rent Trends
As of January 2025, the average apartment rent in Portsmouth, OH is $412 for a studio, $461 for one bedroom, $563 for two bedrooms, and $666 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Portsmouth has increased by 1.1% in the past year.
Transportation
Somewhat Walkable
out of 100 WalkScore® Rating
You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.
Somewhat Bikeable
out of 100 BikeScore® Rating
You might be able to find places to ride your bike in this area, but you’ll most likely want your car for most errands.
Schools
Public
Grades PK-5
337 Students
Public
Grades PK-6
805 Students
Public
Grades PK-6
153 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
138 Students
Portsmouth Junior High School/Portsmouth High School
Public
Grades 7-12
672 Students
Portsmouth Junior High School/Portsmouth High School
Public
Grades 7-12
672 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
146 Students
Points of Interest
Shopping Centers
Parks and Recreation
- Shawnee State University Clark Planetarium
Commuter Rail
Military Bases
Airports
- Tri-State/Milton J Ferguson Field