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Communities in West Virginia offer residents a welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of connection to nature and neighbors alike. From charming small towns to vibrant cities like Charleston and Morgantown, West Virginia communities provide friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and access to outdoor recreation right at your doorstep. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounded by the state’s beautiful mountains, rivers, and forests, as well as rich local culture, historic sites, and community events that bring people together.

 

With safe streets, local businesses, and a true spirit of Appalachian hospitality, living in West Virginia communities means enjoying a high quality of life and a supportive, tight-knit environment where everyone feels at home. Be sure to visit our Communities Travel Guide for information about communities in West Virginia.

The artificial intelligence ChatGPT platform has evolved from a curiosity to a trusted coworker, according to WVU professor Joshua Meadows.
Communities

WVU Professor: After three years, ChatGPT has become a coworker—not a boss

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As ChatGPT turns three, a West Virginia University professor says the artificial intelligence platform has evolved from a curiosity to a trusted coworker that’s reshaping how people work, learn, and communicate at a pace few anticipated. Joshua Meadows, an assistant professor and director of “Data Driven WV” at the WVU John Chambers … Read more

Tourism officials say the expansion is aimed at meeting growing demand from local makers and retailers who want to feature the Almost Heaven brand.
Communities

West Virginia tourism office launches “Almost Heaven” brand licensing program

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The W.Va. Department of Tourism has launched an Almost Heaven brand licensing program—an initiative officials say will give businesses new opportunities to tap into one of the state’s most recognizable marketing campaigns. The program will permit the licensed use of its “West Virginia” logo, “WV” icon, the “Almost Heaven” and “Country Roads” … Read more

Seasonal affective disorder, or "SAD," affects millions of Americans each year and is a form of depression that deserves serious attention.
Communities

Don’t ignore the winter blues: Seasonal affective disorder is a serious form of depression

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, a West Virginia University clinical psychologist is reminding people not to dismiss the “winter blues.” Seasonal affective disorder, or “SAD,” affects millions of Americans each year and is a form of depression that deserves serious attention. Stephanie Cox, professor in the Department of … Read more

Preservation grants are being employed to restore the historic Tyree Tavern at Ansted.
Communities

West Virginia historic preservation grants open for 2026 applications

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is now accepting applications for economic development grants to support and maintain historic properties, particularly those in historic districts across the state. Funded through the National Park Service, the funds are appropriated by the U.S. Congress to support preservation efforts vital to the economic well-being of communities. Applications must be … Read more

Because fireflies communicate through light signals, Heitzman cautioned that flashlights, car headlights, and phone screens can interfere with their mating patterns.
Communities

West Virginia University insect tracker says light pollution threatens rare fireflies

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — While rare “synchronous fireflies” are becoming a tourist attraction across Appalachia, a West Virginia University researcher is reminding visitors to enjoy the spectacle responsibly and without disrupting the insects’ delicate mating rituals. Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are known for their remarkable ability to coordinate their flashes of light in unison, a natural … Read more