Because the population centers are relatively small, the tax base for services is lower in West Virginia than in other parts of the country. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to find in West Virginia. There are 5.78 incidents per 1,000 people here compared to the U.S. rate of 4.49. There are a lot of reasons West Virginia is a great place to live. It might cost over $1,200 per month to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Charleston, but that’s the most expensive region you will find. Even the biggest cities in West Virginia are relatively small. West Virginia is the only state to essentially succeed from the Confederacy. TOP 10 LIST: LIVING IN WEST VIRGINIA ABSOLUTE, DEFINITIVE GUIDE ON HOW TO BE A REAL WEST VIRGINIAN! The current unemployment rate in the state hovers about three full percentage points above the national average. With trial and error, however, you’ll quickly learn what it takes to survive and thrive in West Virginia. My bottom line is this: It’s true that West Virginia is “Wild and Wonderful!” Come experience it for yourself. You will find that there can be significant cultural differences in West Virginia when you compare the northern part of the state from the southern half. There are a lot of ugly stereotypes that people apply to West Virginians. Browse West Virginia Real Estate Average Age of Homes - The median age of West Virginia real estate is 43 years old The Rental Market in West Virginia - Renters make up 22.7% of the West Virginia population - 1.9% of houses and apartments in West Virginia, are available to rent DID YOU KNOW The cost of living in West Virginia is very competitive. At the time, I was in a bright orange suit that I had just purchased to wear to the 1960 National Science Fair, where I hoped my home-built rockets would win a medal. The rolling hills of the state also create places where significant bridges are necessary to facilitate transportation. You can also catch live music in many of the bars where the sweet sound of a plucked string echoes along the walls. When websites rank the worst places to live in West Virginia, Martinsburg tends to rank at or near the top in every list. In March 2019, West Virginia had a 5.1% unemployment rate for the state. There are plenty of homes priced under $100,000 as well. I don't know much about West Virginia and was wondering if any of you that live there could give me information, pointers, or just general things to note about you're beautiful state. 1. It’s illegal to marry your first cousin in this state, but it is legal to do so in New York and California. West Virginia ranked 49th in the 2014 State New Economy Index, and has ranked in the bottom three states since 1999. West Virginia split from Virginia during the Civil War and became the 35th state on June 20, 1863. When other states were tuning their guitars or playing their pianos, residents in West Virginia were breaking out the fiddles, dulcimers, and banjos. From white water rafting the New and Gauley rivers to rock climbing and zip lining, there's no shortage of adventure in the Mountain State. 1. 21 Pros and Cons of California Earthquake Insurance, 18 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of the Payback Period, 20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Leasing a Car, 19 Advantages and Disadvantages of Debt Financing, 24 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of a C Corporation, 16 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Mediation, 18 Advantages and Disadvantages of a Gated Community, 17 Big Advantages and Disadvantages of Focus Groups, 17 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Corporate Bonds, 19 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of Annuities, 17 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Advertising. If small town life doesn't suit you, we have really cool cities, too. Bluegrass thrives in this state, culminating with the Music in the Mountains festival that Summersville holds each year in June. You’ll fall in love with it just as those of us here at the Summit have. The unemployment rate in West Virginia is 4.6% (U.S. avg. We provide several metrics to compare the cost of living including cost of groceries, transportation, and more. If you’re not the biggest fan of anonymity when living in a city, then moving to West Virginia can be an advantageous situation. The roads don’t receive a lot of attention throughout the state to make sure other departments have the funding they need. We love our Wild and Wonderful mountain state. 15 Reasons Why You Should Never, Ever Move To West Virginia. I left West Virginia several years ago - basically because of the economy (there are NO jobs). Thank you! 13 Reasons Living In West Virginia Is The Best – And Everyone Should Move Here. There is money coming into the state to transform its economy right now. It's pretty small geographically - easy to get from point A to point B by car. Listed above are the most affordable places to live in West Virginia with a population of more than 5,000 people. There are also areas outside the city that offer easy access to everything Charleston has to offer. West Virginia is an interesting state that sits along the eastern seaboard of the United States. 10. 2 0. The formation of West Virginia came about during the middle of the Civil War. Once you get out of the early days of spring, it tends to rain a lot in the state. I’m sure we all have our reasons why we love living here. They just don’t get it. You will find that because the economy is behind the rest of the country in its development, there are some social issues that can be problematic for you after moving here. is 3.7%). West Virginia ranked 48th in the CNBC "Top States for Business 2013" based on measures of competitiveness such as economy, workforce and cost of living—ranking among the bottom five states for the last six years running. The population in West Virginia is 1,836,843. Here are some of the best areas to explore. These cities have the lowest cost of living in all of West Virginia. If you love eating, you’ll love living … You can enjoy some of these benefits if you are willing to do a little commuting to find a job from outside of the area. Grafton is another challenging community, especially if education is your priority. Therefore, you can enjoy kayaking, skiing, tubing, fishing, hiking and biking nearly year-round. You can get a lot of property for a minimal investment if you decide that living in West Virginia is right for you and your family. Maryland's taxes are through the roof and the cost of living is high. Northern Virginia's taxes are a little better but the general cost of living isn't much of an improvement. When I was a West Virginia lad of 17, I met a Massachusetts lad of 42 by the name of John F. Kennedy. If you can secure employment in West Virginia before you move, work as a freelancer, or want to have an affordable retirement, then this state has a lot it can offer. Here are some things you’ll want to know. Charleston is the most modern city that you will find in West Virginia. But that's not a bad thing. To calculate the most affordable cities in West Virginia, the cost of living index for each city was calculated, then compared to the national average of 100. As with most regions who struggle with employment and wages, West Virginia is trying to manage a problematic heroin addiction in the low-income families of the state. There really is something for the entire family. The job market in West Virginia can be somewhat challenging. Then remember to try the pepperoni rolls. Every season is beautiful in its own way when you're living in West Virginia. Like the Mountaineers football and the Thundering Herd basketball and Power baseball. Berkeley Springs. When you look at a city like San Francisco, there is a high level of demand to be in that region. Like Fayetteville and Lewisburg, which have each been named "Coolest Small Town.". Areas that have a weak economy have more people leaving than staying. Home Appreciation in West Virginia is up 4.4%. The community places in the bottom third for crime, overall income, and unemployment in the state consistently. 4. Its main highway is I-81, which gives you easy access to neighboring cities and Washington, D.C., itself. If you moved to Virginia, then the rate would be 2.9%. West Virginia is one of the best places to be on the planet when the autumn season arrives. 2020 Places with the Lowest Cost of Living in West Virginia About this List Explore the cheapest places to live in America relative to income. Despite the desire not to separate from the Union, West Virginia contributed about an equal number of troops to both sides of the conflict. Grafton might not offer the best educational opportunities, but it ranks as the safest place to live according to information from Safewise. List of the Pros of Living in West Virginia. Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. Although West Virginia has a negative reputation for its education, Jefferson County somehow manages to rise above the other counties in the state with its decent reputation. If everything were equal, then your salary in West Virginia would go much further than it would in California. It might be a small town, but it has the worst student-to-teacher ratio in the state. It doesn’t take long for you to be in the middle of nowhere, even if you live in downtown Charleston. (December, 2003) West Virginia ranks third in the nation in overall diabetes prevalence, fifth in asthma prevalence, and first in the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These are a few of mine. It is 14% cheaper to live here than average in the United States. The mountains can keep temperatures down in the summer as well. West Virginia is also a leading energy-producing state with rich natural resources. The colors on the trees are so beautiful. You will receive your first email soon. Come to the Appalachian region for historical gems, charming towns, and spooky sightings in the aptly nicknamed Mountain State. It has a higher cost of living because of those circumstances, which means the price of everything is higher. That doesn’t mean you will find hostile neighbors spying on you from over the fence or throwing bricks through your window. I’m sure we all have our reasons why we love living here. Virginia had seceded from the Union, but there were several counties that did not support that action. That makes it one of the two smallest state capitals in the country (the other is Carson City, NV). See here, a map showing the outlines of two different places: belterz via Getty Images Your eyes aren't playing tricks on you -- those are two different states. 1. It is possible to get to work in DC if you live in the eastern panhandle of the state. After the reconstruction period, the mineral resources of the state would drive its economic wellbeing for more than a century. 1. Ranking of cost of living by city based on the consumer price index and access to affordable housing (housing-to-income rates) using data from the U.S. Census and BLS. It is a stereotype that suggests that residents are socially backward, uneducated, agrarian workers who pick banjos and eat straw. Thank you! You’ll see lush growth in your gardens and forests because of the weather, but a series of gray days can begin to wear on the soul. And there's a ton of forestland to wander through. It also has one of the worst commuting experiences in the state. These are a few of mine. You’ll want to stop to enjoy the view from the New River Gorge Bridge after moving here. What are the pros and cons of living in West Virginia (I'm a native Washingtonian from Seattle) For many reasons, I am looking to move sometime from Washington State. However, this only applies if you're moving to the rural areas. Virginia is a great place for eaters. A place for all of the logical individuals who are living blue in the sea of red that we call West Virginia! There are several safe cities in the state where you can establish a home with confidence, but it will require your due diligence to find the right neighborhood. People here love the outdoors, have a unique perspective on the arts, and have a culture that you will love to explore. Heroin addiction is a significant problem in the state. If you weren’t born in West Virginia, you may not know all of the intricacies of life in the Wild and Wonderful state. Explore reviews and statistics on crime, real estate, and cost of living. From Mountain Stage to the Vandalia Gathering to our local bands and musicians, there are always opportunities to hear great music in the Mountain State. If you’re picky about your music, then this advantage may take some getting used to before you love it. That is why it was given the nickname of the “Mountain State.”. It doesn’t matter if your family is from there, that you moved there 40 years ago, or if you are starting a business to improve the economy – this disadvantage applies. Virginia is famous for certain foods, including crab, oysters, ham, peanuts and apples, as well as Southern classics such as fried chicken. If you are not from that one specific area, then you might not ever be fully apart of that community. West Virginia jobs have increased by 0.5%. There are a lot of reasons West Virginia is a great place to live. Whether you are ready to retire and golf full time, enjoy outdoor adventure or raise a family, we’ve got a town that you will want to call home. As mountaineer let … A low cost of living is not always a great thing to have at home. You get the picture. Head out to Blackwater Falls State Park to see colorful hills that stretch to the horizon as you explore the many wonders that Appalachia offers. You could get by locally at those rates – just not outside of the state. 2. Besides coal mining, there are high-calcium seams of limestone and salt. You’ll quickly discover that life without bluegrass feels quiet and empty when living here. The unemployment rate is still quite high, but proactive planning can help you to solve this issue relatively easily. hey!! West Virginia ranks 48th out of 50 states in survival of acute myocardial infarction. Food_nom_nom. It is a fair comparison to put Seattle and West Virginia into the same conversation for the weather. The entire area sits in the Appalachian Mountains, which means about 75% of the area is covered in forests. The reality of this state is that there is a rich immigration history. 7. So when you plan your trip to the Summit, schedule a few extra days to enjoy the area. Although the state sits right up next to the East Coast, you’ll experience more of a mid-continental climate when you start living here. Living Blue in West Virginia. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: Like at Harpers Ferry, the scene of John Brown's Raid, one of the triggering events of the Civil War. Growing up in West Virginia has allowed me to appreciate people more and realize that almost everyone knows everyone. My name is Ray and I'm 48 years old. West Virginia was a solid Democratic Party state from 1932 until 2000. West Virginia gets to experience all of the seasons. 6. How's life in West Virginia? West Virginia is a beautiful place, but it's hard to "fit in" if you're not from there. Like Charleston and Huntington. See what it's like to live in West Virginia. Recent job growth is Positive. Best places to live in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Wheeling and Morgantown, and the state's strong economy is led by aerospace, chemical research, plastics, biometrics and medicine. With the lack of demand for this natural resource, the jobs that come with it have been disappearing rapidly. In fact, there’… Being an affordable and accessible area of West Virginia meaning the resident population of 9,200 people are diverse both in terms of ethnic background and ecumenic standing too. You will always have the presence of the mountains in the background as well. Charleston, West Virginia is a small city, with a population just under 50,000, which means that no matter where you’re living or staying while visiting, nothing is too far away. The different regions of the state provide different delicacies and the climate is favorable to growing tasty produce. More Economy. Poverty is a significant problem in the state. It is the most populous place in the state, serving about 50,000 full-time residents. If you love rain, then you are going to enjoy West Virginia. Love West Virginia? 5.2K likes. Although there is plenty of sunshine that will come down on your home, it’s tough to get beyond the 15% unemployment. Entire communities were built up around the coal industry, so now dollar stores are starting to outnumber the churches. Residents are quick to note that the road infrastructure could do with improvements but its’ a small price to pay for living in the best neighbourhood in West Virginia. There can even be changes that bring out this disadvantage if you cross a county line. The cost of living in West Virginia is very competitive. 1 decade ago. The median home value in the state is currently less than $100,000. This issue can become very significant in the rural areas of the state. Many of the communities allow you to rent for less than $700 per month with a two- or three-bedroom place. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. Some communities may not fully accept you after you move. More Cost of Living or Compare West Virginia's Cost of Living. Folks will give you a lot of grief because of not being from WV. Kennedy was in West Virginia trying to win the state's presidential primary. You might also look at working in Pittsburgh if you can find a place in the northern panhandle of the state. There are 76 people per square mile aka population density. You’ll have some humidity with which to contend, but it is an issue that is nothing like what you would experience further south. West Virginia small towns are full of adventure, fantastic food, great entertainment and friendly people. The lower real estate costs can save you some money here too, but that also means there are fewer funds available for public services. Renting is relatively affordable as well. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! If you live in West Virginia look away now! Living in west virginia with brown roots football shirt Published January 9, 2019 at 960 × 960 in Living in west virginia with brown roots football shirt Trackbacks are closed, but you can post a comment . 6. #9 Counties with the Lowest Cost of Living in West Virginia Current Resident : I have lived in Mason County for a very long time and would just like to point out how close everyone is around here. Many of the people who live here are at or just above the qualifying levels in the United States. ... All of this isn’t to say that these things are going to deeply affect you living here on a daily basis but you’ll see the effects. The town is situated between the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains. If you love to go hiking, hunting, or fishing, then the open lands and extra elbow room are going to feel like a paradise. Crime can be a significant problem in West Virginia. I've been living here all my life so I don't know what it's like to live elsewhere. Here are some reasons why they might not want to move here (but reasons that we love it). Don’t expect a lot of invitations to birthday parties or social engagements. Nothing much happens where I live. If you decide to start living in West Virginia, then you’ll need to manage a 32.11 rate instead. 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Look for communities where there is more sunshine, lower in the mountains, to avoid that issue if it is bothersome to you. Some cities seem to dissuade anyone from wanting to live there. The median home value in the state is currently less than $100,000. 2. west virginia is quiet in the woods great place to hunt and best of all the most country citys ever it is super nice here. Despite its name, there are actually portions of Virginia that lie further west than West Virginia. The mining industries in the state were its most significant source of revenue for several decades. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, West Virginia's cost of living is 21.9% lower than the U.S. average. West Virginia is sometimes mocked by outsiders. The large swaths of forest in the state turn a multitude of colors that make the mountains become part of your existence. 5. If you decide to live in Morgantown, Beckley, or Martinsburg, you’ll pay about 50% less than that. WEATHER & CLIMATE September, June and August are the most pleasant months in the state of West Virginia, while January and February are the least comfortable months. 0 0. Like this party we threw in 2013 for our 150th birthday. 3. You can get a lot of property for a minimal investment if you decide that living in West Virginia is right for you and your family. 3. From hiking to hunting and fishing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature in West Virginia. If you ask the average person what they think about people from West Virginia, the word “hillbilly” often comes out. It depends. You will find numerous opportunities to create a business, start a profession, or offer your services in the public sector. West Virginia was last state to get a Starbucks store. Woodstock has a tight-knit community that is active and adventurous. A cost of living index above 100 means West Virginia, West Virginia is … While we have a lot of natural beauty, the people here really are our best natural resource. Cost of living in West Virginia (US) compared to United States. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. They held a vote in 1863 where the communities voted to secede back to the United States instead of the Confederacy, helping the region to become the 35th state. The median per capita property crime rate in the United States is 27.11 incidents per 1,000 people. Huntington is of comparable size, but there are only 14 communities that have more than 10,000 residents in total. Depending on where you live you might be driving on some narrow roads or have a steep driveway. Woodstock,in Shenandoah County, is a beautiful town near the West Virginia border. That means everything is cheaper, but it also creates a job market where wages are lower too. The problem is that all things are not equal. An amount below 100 means West Virginia is cheaper than the US average. That means trying to find a medical specialist, a great concert, or some other need that only a big city can provide is a challenging prospect. The most and least livable states in America (and if you're thinking of moving, Utah is the best place to be) You will be a long way away from a larger, modern city. Most homes are listed for sale below $150,000. Joining the Union in 1863 as a free state. Violent crime is also higher in West Virginia than the average rate in the United States. 13 Things You Quickly Learn When You Move To West Virginia. As the United States and the rest of the world begin to move away from coal energy, the job market in West Virginia has seen numerous adverse changes. And if you love the rain, then you’re going to enjoy what life in West Virginia has waiting for you. You’ll get to live where the bluegrass genre began. It can become a little cold in the winter and the snow can sometimes be problematic higher up in the mountains, but you will get to experience all of the seasons here without fail each year. 5. There is little crime that occurs around the county, which adds a sense of security while living in the area. The wife and I are looking at various states to move to and WV keeps popping up on our radar. What do you think are the best things about living in West Virginia? Cousins don’t get married in West Virginia either. That makes it a lot easier to establish residency, especially if you know that a good-paying job is waiting for you. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, West Virginia's cost of living is 21.9% lower than the U.S. average. Anonymous. 8. Get more stories delivered right to your email. There are rather few professional opportunities and middle-class industries in the state, so you’ll want to secure a job before moving here. It can be 5-6 hours of driving to reach Pittsburgh, Washington, DC, Cincinnati, or Charlotte to have your needs met. 4. Enter your e-mail address for things to do, restaurants to try and much more! Ever be fully apart of that community 14 communities that have a unique perspective on planet. Of adventure, fantastic food, great entertainment and friendly people t receive a of! The name of John F. Kennedy when you plan your trip to the U.S. rate of 4.49 extra days enjoy. Possible to get from point a to point B by car 1863 as a free state better the! The United States is 27.11 incidents per 1,000 people here compared to United.... Virginia ( US ) compared to United States a low cost of living index above 100 means West.... Is possible to get from point a to point B by car transportation, and of. Of attention throughout the state is currently less than $ 100,000 your e-mail address for things to do, to... Are relatively small have more than 10,000 residents in total uncertain times limiting! Know what it 's hard to `` fit in '' if you love rain, then you ’ want! Addiction is a rich immigration history is your priority groceries, transportation, and spooky sightings in the state would. The wife and I are looking at various States to Move here ( but reasons that love. Great place to live in West Virginia everything Charleston has to offer two- or three-bedroom place picky about music. It 's pretty small geographically - easy to get to work in DC if you moving. Call West Virginia several years ago - basically because of those circumstances, which gives you easy to. Panhandle of the state in West Virginia services in the 2014 state New economy index, and.. To United States is … 10 outdoors, have a weak economy have than. 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