Petersburg is part of the Jasper Micropolitan Statistical Area.

[6] The city was named for Peter Brenton, an original owner of the town site.

[8] The lower portion of the White River runs through the city.

The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters.

37.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

There were 1,228 housing units at an average density of 838.7 per square mile (323.8/km2).

35.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

Hoosier Energy's Frank E. Ratts Generating Station was torn down during late 2016 and early 2017 and the site has been graded and seeded.

The school colors were red and white, and the mascot was the Indians (meaning Native Americans).