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Moving To West Virginia

A complete guide of the state from healthcare to diversity

Should you move to West Virginia?

West Virginia, the Mountain State, is a place of rugged beauty, warm hospitality, and a deeply rooted Appalachian culture. Known for its coal mining history, outdoor recreational activities, and unique regional cuisine, West Virginia offers a lifestyle steeped in nature and tradition.

West Virginia’s economy, traditionally based in coal mining, has diversified into healthcare, education, and tourism. Its cities, like Charleston and Morgantown, offer a blend of historical charm and modern development.

Living in West Virginia offers numerous experiences. From rafting on the New River Gorge, hiking in the Monongahela National Forest, exploring the historic Harpers Ferry, or attending a vibrant music festival, West Virginia presents a distinct blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. Education is valued, with improving public schools and universities like West Virginia University and Marshall University.

If you’re seeking a state that offers a connection to nature, a slower pace of life, and a friendly, close-knit community vibe, West Virginia could be your new home. Just be prepared for the hilly terrain and the changing seasons!

State Capital

Charleston

Area Code(s)

304, 681

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone

Land Area (sq mi)

24,041

State Bird

Cardinal

Motto

Montani semper liberi (Mountaineers are always free)

State Flag

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Who Lives in West Virginia?

Discover more about the people who make up the State

Total Population

National Avg 6,652,315

Population Density

75 per sq mi

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

How does West Virginia compare?

F
Diversity Grade
White alone
91.2%
Black or African American
3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
0%
Hispanic or Latino
2.1%

Foreign Born Persons

1.6%

Veterans

118598

Under 5 years
5%
Under 18 years
19.8%
Over 65 years
21.2%

West Virginia Climate

How’s the weather?

How Does West Virginia Compare?

#31
in Sunny Days
#19
in Annual Rainfall
#8
in Daytime Humidity

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Healthcare in West Virginia

How are the hospitals and care?

Major Hospitals

48

Residents Per Bed

241

Residents Per Physician

294.9

How Does West Virginia Compare?

#49
in Healthcare
#50
in Available Beds
#14
in Doctors Per Resident

West Virginia Metropolitans

West Virginia

Charleston

Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia

Huntington-Ashland

West Virginia

Morgantown

Ohio, West Virginia

Wheeling

Ohio, West Virginia

Weirton-Steubenville

West Virginia

Beckley

West Virginia

Parkersburg-Vienna

West Virginia Cost of Living

How Does West Virginia Compare?

9
in Cost of Living
30
in Minimum Wage
5
in Living Wage

Don't Forget!

Auto insurance costs change from city to neighborhood. Through Insurify, you can receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less.

Renting? Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. And Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

West Virginia State Taxes

Housing in West Virginia

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the zip code.

Total Households

711,352

Own vs. Rent

Own 73.9%
Rent 26.1%

Connect with a local West Virginia REALTOR®

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Median Home Value

114,600

National $440,300

Median Rent

$770

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$345

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Persons Per Household

2.47

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by . A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more.Ìý

West Virginia Schools

Explore the school district and schools

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #49 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

48%

Proficient or Above

15%

Ranked #49 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

60%

Proficient or Above

22%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
88.1%
Bachelors Degree
21.8%

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

West Virginia Cities & Towns

West Virginia Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$50,884

US Average $74,580

How does West Virginia compare?

In Labor Force

53.2%

Poverty rate

16.8%

Private Employers

35,316

Total Employees

519,122

West Virginia Counties

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