CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Remote workers looking for a new home with equal parts city energy and mountain calm will find it in West Virginia’s capital.
Ascend West Virginia—the nation’s premier talent attraction and retention program—announced that Charleston, West Virginia, has officially joined its lineup of communities welcoming newcomers with incentives and opportunities to plant roots in “Almost Heaven.”
Founded by Brad and Alys Smith, the program has already drawn nearly 1,000 new residents to West Virginia since its launch, boasting a retention rate of more than 96 percent.
Participants report average annual salaries above $97,000 and typically relocate with nearly two additional household members, multiplying the program’s impact on local economies.
Why Charleston is an ideal city for remote work
Charleston’s inclusion marks the program’s sixth expansion, alongside the New River Gorge, Greater Elkins, Morgantown, the Eastern Panhandle, and the Greenbrier Valley.
But for Brad Smith, a West Virginia native, former executive chairman of Intuit, and the current president of Marshall University, Charleston holds special significance.
“Charleston represents the heart of our state—a place where innovation, culture, and adventure thrive together,” Smith said.
“We’re excited to see new residents discover what makes our capital city, and West Virginia as a whole, an extraordinary place to live, work, and play.”
Applications for Charleston opened Friday. The city offers a mix of historic charm and modern growth—the gold-domed State Capitol presides over a downtown filled with locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and art galleries.
Summers bring live music on the riverfront, while the Clay Center anchors the arts scene with concerts and exhibits. Just beyond city streets, the Kanawha River flows past biking trails and climbing routes, reminding residents that adventure is always close at hand.
Alys Smith said Charleston is the ideal destination for so many remote professionals, telecommuters, and virtual employees.
“Ascend WV is about more than just relocation—it’s about building community, fostering connections, and empowering people to create fuller, more meaningful lives,” she said.
“Charleston’s vibrant culture and natural beauty make it a perfect fit for our program.”
Remote work incentives in Charleston
The program offers more than $20,000 in incentives to those who relocate. Funded by a $25 million gift from the Smiths to West Virginia University’s Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, Ascend WV is the only initiative in the nation that pairs relocation support with outdoor recreation.
Participants receive $12,000 in cash over two years, two years of free outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting and ziplining, a coworking space, $1,200 in outdoor gear rentals, professional development through WVU, and curated social and outdoor events designed to help them connect with their new neighbors.
For state and local leaders, bringing Ascend WV to Charleston is about more than numbers—it’s about momentum.
Chelsea Ruby, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism, said Charleston is an ideal location for residents who desire city conveniences alongside outdoor recreation.
“Our capital city offers the best of both worlds—vibrant arts, culture, and dining along with quick access to incredible outdoor recreation,” Ruby said.
Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin echoed the sentiment, calling the program “an incredible opportunity to strengthen our economy and support local businesses,” while Kanawha County commissioners said it would help retain young professionals and reverse population decline.
The program has already generated more than $500 million in economic impact statewide, according to the Charleston Area Alliance.
With Charleston’s addition, Ascend WV is now accepting applications across all six of its communities, each offering a unique slice of West Virginia life—from cliffside adventure along the New River to historic towns in the Eastern Panhandle.
A remote work lifestyle in Charleston
But in Charleston, the appeal is especially clear. It’s a city where remote workers can start their morning in a coworking space downtown, take a midday run along the river, grab dinner at a locally owned restaurant, and end the night with live music—all without losing touch with the mountains just beyond the skyline.
Applications for six Ascend WV areas
Ascend West Virginia is accepting applications for remote workers in six communities.
Each location offers a distinctive mix of urban amenities, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences designed to attract remote professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Charleston Area
West Virginia’s capital city blends vibrant urban living with outdoor adventure. Remote workers will enjoy nearly 90 mountain bike trails, more than 40 climbing routes, a thriving arts and music scene, and a growing hub for innovation, dining, and history along the scenic Kanawha River.
Greenbrier Valley
For remote workers seeking laid-back living, the Greenbrier Valley offers life along the idyllic Greenbrier River, with 203 mountain bike trails, 2,325 climbing routes, 138 paddling runs, and a flourishing arts scene.
Morgantown Area
A lively college town brimming with culture and innovation, Morgantown provides ample space to roam for remote professionals. The area features 94 paddling runs, nearly 200 mountain bike trails, and 1,400 climbing routes, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Eastern Panhandle
Historic small towns with easy access to the nation’s capital make the Eastern Panhandle perfect for remote workers who value both culture and convenience. The region boasts 197 mountain bike trails, 1,684 climbing routes, 90 paddling runs, and adventures along the Appalachian Trail.
Greater Elkins
Small-town charm, live music, and abundant outdoor recreation define Greater Elkins. Remote workers can explore 176 mountain bike trails, 626 climbing routes, 123 paddling runs, West Virginia’s highest mountains, world-class fishing, and the Monongahela National Forest.
New River Gorge
Loved by both avid adventurers and newcomers, the New River Gorge area is an ideal remote work destination. With 142 mountain bike trails, 1,693 climbing routes, and 111 paddling runs on the New and Gauley Rivers, residents enjoy a mix of scenic mountains, local restaurants, and recreational opportunities. The area has been recognized as one of the coolest small towns in America.
Why West Virginia is an ideal remote work destination
At the very center of the eastern U.S., West Virginia has emerged as an attractive destination for remote workers seeking both affordability and quality of life. The state boasts a low cost of living compared to many urban hubs, allowing remote professionals to enjoy spacious housing, lower taxes, and a slower-paced lifestyle without sacrificing modern conveniences.
From hiking and mountain biking to river sports and scenic drives, West Virginia offers ample opportunities for work-life balance, making it easier for remote workers to recharge and maintain productivity. Additionally, recent investments in broadband infrastructure have significantly expanded high-speed internet access across the state, ensuring that connectivity—a crucial requirement for remote work—is no longer a barrier.
Charleston, the state’s capital, exemplifies the advantages of relocating within West Virginia. The city combines small-town charm with urban amenities, including diverse dining, cultural attractions, and co-working spaces that cater to a growing remote workforce.
Its central location provides easy access to both natural retreats and regional travel, while local initiatives support entrepreneurship and tech development, creating a collaborative environment for professionals. With a tight-knit community, affordable housing, and a slower pace that fosters focus and creativity, Charleston offers remote workers a balanced lifestyle where career and personal fulfillment can thrive in harmony.
Click here to learn more and begin your ascent.
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