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Communities in West Virginia offers 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, along with 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.

Cold Metal Building In Wellsburg in West Virginia
Communities

Grant available to save neglected historic buildings in W.Va.

by David Sibray

The Preservation Alliance of West Virginia is accepting applications for its new Saving Historic Places Grant, designed to save certified historic buildings in rural West Virginia communities from “demolition by neglect.” According to Danielle Parker, executive director for the statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation in the Mountain State, funding will be provided for … Read more

Communities

WVU researcher to help send swarm of robots beneath ocean ice

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Research from West Virginia University mechanical and aerospace engineer Xi Yu could help scientists reach ocean waters hidden away beneath ice shelves. The inaccessible waters under ocean ice contain information critical to understanding the impact of climate change, and Yu said she believes multiple marine robots, carried and coordinated by an intelligent … Read more

WVU At Macys Parade in West Virginia
Communities

WVU Marching Band to perform in Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Representing West Virginia University and the Mountain State,  the Mountaineer Marching Band will participate in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the second appearance for the band in the historic parade. Macy’s Parade officials were in Morgantown, West Virginia, on September 16 to surprise band members with the news of their selection … Read more

West Virginia Coal
Communities

Fallen Heroes emergency response drill underway in West Virginia

by David Sibray

JULIAN, W.Va. — The Fallen Heroes Mine Emergency Response Drill is underway in the southern coalfields of West Virginia, bringing together mining experts, safety professionals, and mine rescue teams. The growing event, now in its third year, is dedicated to enhancing safety preparedness and response strategies while commemorating the individuals who have committed their lives … Read more

Chelsea Ruby And Governor Celebrate Tourism Boom
Communities

W.Va. officials announce record $7 billion annual tourism impact

by David Sibray

DAVIS, W.Va. — Officials are celebrating a record $7 billion annual tourism impact in West Virginia in 2022 — a 17 percent increase in visitor spending compared to pre-pandemic levels, far higher than the national overall 1 percent post-pandemic tourism recovery. Gov. Jim Justice joined more than 300 tourism-industry members to announce “West Virginia’s best … Read more

Severe Weather August 2023 in West Virginia
Communities

W.Va. Governor issues state of preparedness ahead of storms

by Clyde Craig

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — With the potential for severe storms this afternoon and evening, Governor Justice has declared a State of Preparedness for all 55 counties in West Virginia. With this declaration, the State Emergency Operations Center increased today at 12 p.m. from “Steady State” to “Enhanced Watch,” according to a release from the governor’s office. … Read more