Photo Credit: Pixabay
Moving. Simplified.
If you enjoy hiking, biking, mountain climbing and great tasty pepperoni rolls, moving to West Virginia isn’t a bad idea.
Homes are affordable in West Virginia, more affordable than the United States average. The cost of living in West Virginia is low, and crime rates are lower than national average.
Even more, West Virginia boasts of the most remarkable autumn on the planet and you can enjoy all four seasons in the state.
If you’d love to live in a state where you can enjoy lots of outdoor activities and your kids can grow around very friendly neighbors, moving to West Virginia isn’t a bad idea.
To help you make the right decision about moving to West Virginia, we’ve compiled all the key information you need to know about the state.
Let’s jump right in!
A quick look at the population and other demographics of West Virginia.
West Virginia has a population of 1,836,843 living in 55 different counties. Here’s a simple breakdown of the state’s population since you’re considering moving to West Virginia:
Moving to West Virginia means you’ll enjoy all four seasons in a year. To determine if the climate and weather in West Virginia is suitable for you or not, take a look at the simple breakdown below and compare it to your current state.
Is moving to West Virginia right for you or not? Lots of people move to West Virginia every year for several reasons. Here we’ve listed the ten reasons why people are moving here
West Virginia is extremely cheaper to own a house. The median home value is $110,544 which is almost half the national median home value. Similarly, renting a home is also cheaper. The average rent for a studio apartment in West Virginia is $556 while a 4-bedroom home or apartment can be rented for $1,135.
The cost of living is extremely cheaper than the neighboring states. This means groceries, transportation, housing, healthcare, and education are affordable in West Virginia.
West Virginia enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the US, 9% lower than the national average. Both property crimes and gun violence are much lower than in the neighboring states.
West Virginia is full of many hip cities packed with spectacular locales, amazing views, history, great people, and fun things to see and do.
Here’s a list of some of the best towns to explore.
West Virginia experiences all 4 seasons. Summers are humid and hot, with temperatures averaging 85 degrees. Spring and fall are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 67 to 80 degrees. Winters see heavy snowfall and are typically cold, with temperatures dropping into the 20s. West Virginia experiences sporadic showers and occasional thunderstorms throughout the year.
West Virginia people are probably the best on the planet. The residents there have a strong sense of community and are the friendliest neighbors. They are never in a hurry and always maintain simplicity.
The natural landscape in West Virginia is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the steep cliffs to plush forests, or moody rivers that serve up raging waters on one end and tranquil waterways to float on the other – West Virginia has no shortage of fun outdoors.
Some of the exciting activities you can try in West Adventure include:
Lights, thrills, action – the Mountain state knows how to party and there is no place like West Virginia to have an epic adventure full of fun, and bonding.
West Virginia is an adventure hub and there are more than 1,000 named mountains, 35 state parks, nine state forests, and three rail trails to explore here.
To help you, we’ve compiled a list of 10 adventure activities in West Virginia
The plentiful outdoor spaces, mountainous regions, and perfect fall weather conditions make West Virginia a place where the fall colors just feel a bit more vibrant than anywhere else.
Here is the list of best places in West Virginia to savor the breathtaking foliage vistas.
Take a look at the upside and downside of moving to Virginia. Then weigh your options carefully before making up your mind about moving to Virginia:
If you’re moving to West Virginia, you’d most likely be interested in the best places to live in the state. So, we’ve compiled a list of the ten best cities in West Virginia including their population, unemployment rate, and home values. Check out the list below:
| Rank | City | Population | Unemployment Rate | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hurricane | 16,482 | 4.2% | $151,600 |
| 2 | Vienna | 10,348 | 3.7% | $134,900 |
| 3 | Bridgeport | 8,556 | 1.8% | $222,800 |
| 4 | South Charleston | 12,475 | 4.8% | $130,700 |
| 5 | Morgantown | 30,712 | 9.7% | $210,300 |
| 6 | Wheeling | 27062 | 6.6% | $110,100 |
| 7 | Dunbar | 7,333 | 5.0% | $98,400 |
| 8 | Elkins | 7,072 | 6.4% | $122,800 |
| 9 | St. Albans | 10,270 | 6.9% | $113,300 |
| 10 | New Martinsville | 5,162 | 6.8% | $96,000 |
The cost of living in Virginia is 103.7. Based on a national average of 100, the cost of living in Virginia is slightly higher than the United States average.The cost of living in West Virginia is 78.1. The United States average is 100. This means the average cost of living in West Virginia is lower than the national average. If you’re considering living in a state with a low cost of living, moving to West Virginia could be a great idea.
Renting a home could be a good idea if you’re moving to West Virginia. About 22.7% of West Virginians are renters. Also, up to 1.9% of homes and apartments in West Virginia are available to rent. Here are the average costs of renting various homes or apartments if you’re moving to West Virginia:
West Virginia median home value is $110,544. The United States median home value is $231,000. Over the past year, West Virginia home values have increased by 3.4%. The state’s home values are expected to increase by 9.1% in the next year, according to real estate experts.
Whether you’re looking to get a job after moving to West Virginia, considering a startup as a business or even an investor, chances are that you’ll be interested in the states job market and economy. We’ve compiled key data about West Virginia’s job market to give you the information you need to make the right decision.
West Virginia is home to some of the largest industries in the country. If you’re moving to West Virginia, either as a businessman or an employee, you’ll most likely be interested in the top industries in the state. Here are the top industries in West Virginia:
The unemployment rate in West Virginia is higher than the United States average. If you’re moving to West Virginia, you can increase your chances of getting a job faster by considering some of the fastest growing jobs in the state. Here’s a list of the top ten fastest growing jobs in West Virginia:
| Rank | Job Title | Growth % | Average Wage | Jobs in 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Home Health Aid | 129.2% | $20,060 | 5,880 |
| 2 | Personal Care Assistant | 125.8% | $19,840 | 17,710 |
| 3 | Physical Therapist Assistant | 121.2% | $50,390 | 1,030 |
| 4 | Physical Therapist | 119.7% | $83,310 | 1,520 |
| 5 | Physician Assistant | 119.6% | $99,090 | 1,100 |
| 6 | Marketing Internship | 119.5% | $44,640 | 1,040 |
| 7 | Nurse Practitioner | 116.5% | $92,890 | 1,060 |
| 8 | Medical Receptionist | 115.2% | $29,670 | 1,440 |
| 9 | Industrial Mechanic | 114.4% | $45,910 | 3,330 |
| 10 | Representative | 113.6% | $30,580 | 1,000 |
Tell us a little bit about your move and let us make your move simple.
Start My Quote NowThe average annual pay for the average job in West Virginia is $106,927. If you’re considering moving to West Virginia, the average pay is one of the key things to consider. Here’s a simple breakdown of the average pay in West Virginia:
West Virginia’s unemployment rate is 4.6%. The national average is 3.7%. The state’s unemployment rate is higher than the national average. Since you’re mulling over moving to West Virginia, this is one of the key things you’ll have to consider.
Moving to West Virginia could mean getting the opportunity to work in one of the biggest companies in the state. To give you a head start, here are the 10 biggest companies in West Virginia, including their names, cities, and number of employees.:
| Rank | Company | City | Employees |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Virginia United Health System | Morgantown | 7,000 |
| 2 | CAMC Health System | Charleston | 6,858 |
| 3 | Brand Energy and Infrastructure Services | Culloden | 6,000 |
| 4 | MedExpress Urgent Care | Morgantown | 4,794 |
| 5 | ESMARK | Wheeling | 3,740 |
| 6 | Ogden Newspapers | Wheeling | 3,500 |
| 7 | Special Metals | Huntington | 3,188 |
| 8 | Oglebay | Wheeling | 3,000 |
| 9 | Thomas Memorial Hospital | South Charleston | 3,000 |
| 10 | DFS NEWELL | Newell | 3,000 |
Tip: While moving the home, safety of your belongings is the priority and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. Know the top-rated moving companies in West Virginia.
West Virginia average one-way commute time takes 25.7 minutes. The United States average is 26.4 minutes. This means commuting time in West Virginia is shorter than the national average. Spending less time on the road also means dealing with less amount of stress. This is one of the key things to think through before making up your mind about moving to West Virginia.
Here’s a simple stat about how people commute to work in West Virginia:
Compare upto 6 Moving Quotes and save upto 65% on Your Move.
Start My Quote NowSafety is one of the key things to consider if you’re moving to West Virginia. You can compare the crime rates in West Virginia to your current state and the entire U.S. using the crime stats below:
You will most likely be interested in the safest cities to live in if you’re moving to West Virginia. Here we’ve compiled a list of the ten safest cities in West Virginia considering their population, violent crimes per 100,000 and property crimes per 100,000 to enable you make a fair comparison.
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crimes Per 100k | Property Crimes Per 100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Martinsville, WV | 5,114 | 39 | 273 |
| 2 | Winfield, WV | 2,378 | 0 | 504 |
| 3 | Oak Hill, WV | 8,140 | 61 | 171 |
| 4 | Weston, WV | 3,887 | 102 | 51 |
| 5 | Weirton, WV | 18,296 | 60 | 480 |
| 6 | Wellsburg, WV | 2,531 | 39 | 671 |
| 7 | Williamson, WV | 2,694 | 222 | 74 |
| 8 | White Sulphur Springs, WV | 2,395 | 208 | 501 |
| 9 | Charles Town, WV | 6,171 | 145 | 1,215 |
| 10 | Summersville, WV | 3,292 | 30 | 3,250 |
West Virginia has some of the lowest property taxes in the United States. Also, the state’s average effective property tax rate is the ninth-lowest in the entire United States. Here are key tax rates to consider if you’re moving to West Virginia:
West Virginia is known for many things. If you’re considering moving to West Virginia you should be aware of the key things the state is known for. West Virginia is known for the following key reasons:
The ski resort is situated in the bowl shaped convergence of two mountains, Cheat and Back Allegheny, at the head of the Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. It has skiable terrain across 244 acres (99 ha) and covers a total area of 11,000 acres (44.5 km2) in the Allegheny Mountains. The resort also has extensive mountain biking trails and golfing options.
Situated near Summersville, it has 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The 1,000-acre park is also a popular hiking, biking, and boating destination.
Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls is one of the most photographed venues in West Virginia.
The 5,133-acre Greenbrier State Forest is drenched in natural beauty with a wide range of recreational options like fishing, swimming, hiking, and mountain biking. Magnificent views of the surrounding countryside are afforded by the impressive and imposing 3,280 high Kate's Mountain.
The 12,747-acre-Coopers Rock State Park promises majestic views and has numerous hiking and biking trails. It is home to many historic sites and has a lake perfect for reeling in trout and a nearby river for rafting.
Hatfield and McCoy Trails passes through West Virginia counties of Logan, Kanawha, Wyoming, McDowell, Mercer, Wayne, Lincoln, Mingo, and Boone and is one of the most popular trails in the state. It has 700 miles of trails and there are plans to add several hundred more miles of trails in two more counties.
Stonewall Resort State Park with a collection of luxury and classic cottages offer 19,000-acre outdoor recreation and adventure. There are breathtaking views, water, and lush greens around.
A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. It flows through the 70000-acre New River Gorge National Park and is rich in cultural and natural history. There is also an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities, including the country’s best whitewater rafting.
Whitewater rafting has been central to outdoor recreation in West Virginia. Rafting lovers flock to West Virginia to experience the thrill of rapid waters and here are 5 whitewater rafting rivers in West Virginia
The historic town of Harpers Ferry in Jefferson County is known for its rich past and scenic beauty. There are picturesque parks, museums, and historic spots to explore. In addition, hiking trails add more charm to the town.
Canaan Valley Resorts at Canaan Valley Resort State Park has cabins and cottages amidst scenic beauty. No matter which room you pick, you'll have mountains in your backyard and outdoor adventures to take advantage of year-round.
The 4,050-acre Pipestem Resort Park got its name from pipestem, or narrow leaf meadowsweet, a local shrub. The park can be reached only by an aerial tramway to the bottom of the gorge. There are 26 fully equipped wood cabins, a regular and a par-3 golf course, several restaurants, and other recreational activities, including its stable of horses at the park.
Whether you have school age kids or not, if you’re interested in moving to West Virginia you should be aware of the best schools in the state. Buying a home in strategic locations such as one in a top-quality school district can be an advantage when you’re ready to sell.
We’ve listed the top-rated colleges, high schools, middle schools and elementary schools in the state since you’re considering moving to West Virginia.
Hometown Elementary School
Putnam County Schools, Public, PK-5 | 62 students, Rating: 9/10
Evans Elementary School
Jackson County Schools, Public, PK-5 | 183 students, Rating: 9/10
Ritchie Elementary School
Ohio County Schools, Public, PK-5 | 299 students, Rating: 9/10
Smithville Elementary School
Ritchie County Schools, Public, PK-5 | 119 students, Rating: 9/10
Criss Elementary School
Wood County Schools, Public, PK-5 | 272 students, Rating: 9/10
John Adams Middle School
Kanawha County Schools, Public, 6-8 | 751 students, Rating: 8/10
Fairview Middle School
Marion County Schools, Public, PK-8 | 190 students, Rating: 8/10
Suncrest Middle School
Monongalia County Schools, Public, 6-8 | 494 students, Rating: 8/10
Winfield Middle School
Putnam County Schools, Public, 6-8 | 604 students, Rating: 8/10
Edison Junior High School
Wood County Schools, Public, 6-8 | 624 students, Rating: 8/10
Bridgeport High School
Harrison County Schools, Public, 9-12 | 790 students, Rating: 8/10
Doddridge County High School
Doddridge County Schools, Public, 9-12 | 305 students, Rating: 8/10
Musselman High School
Berkeley County Schools, Public, 9-12 | 1593 students, Rating: 8/10
Frankfort High School
Mineral County Schools, Public, 9-12 | 518 students, Rating: 8/10
Buffalo High School
Putnam County Schools, Public, 9-12 | 341 students, Rating: 8/10
Rank 1. Bethany College, Bethany, WV
Rank 2. West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV
Rank 3. West Virginia State University, Institute, WV
Rank 4. Concord University, Athens, WV
Rank 5. Wheeling Jesuit University, Wheeling, WV
Rank 6. Alderson Broaddus University, Philippi, WV
Rank 7. Davis & Elkins College, Elkins, WV
Rank 8. Marshall University, Huntington, WV
Rank 9. West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon, WV
Rank 10. University of Charleston, Charleston, WV
MoverJunction.com
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza
Ashburn, VA 20147
888-901-4841
