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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.

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

Budding Tree In West Virginia in West Virginia
Communities

Aromatherapy can benefit substance-use recovery, WVU study finds

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Aromatherapy eases stress in people undergoing treatment for substance use disorder, which can enhance their chances of a successful recovery, according to West Virginia University research. The ongoing study incorporates the use of essential oils as an integrative therapy that is part of a bigger-picture model focusing on the whole person. Researchers … Read more

West Virginia Mountain Stream
Communities

W.Va. pursues more than $18 million in Appalachian funding

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has recommended more than $18 million in Appalachian Regional Commission grant funding for 11 projects — chiefly those that improve water and sewerage infrastructure. W.Va. Gov. Jim Justice stressed that the programming to be awarded was vital to the state’s growing economy. “These upgrades are going to be phenomenal, and … Read more