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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.

McMurran Hall at Shepherd University fronts East German Street in historic Shepherdstown, West Virginia.
Communities

Shepherd University develops Appalachian leadership institute

by David Sibray

The Shepherd University Center for Appalachian Studies and Communities is accepting applications from teachers and community leaders in Jefferson and Berkeley counties for a new community leadership institute. Titled “Voices from the Misty Mountains, Reclaiming Our Story for a New Appalachia,” the institute will take place will take place February 4-April 28 on Tuesdays from … Read more

Looking across the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, mountain ranges recede into the distance. (Photo courtesy WVU)
Communities

WVU to unveil economic plan for Potomac highlands

by David Sibray

The five-county area comprising the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia could improve economically by embracing and promoting its regional identity, according to a new study published by three West Virginia University centers. After a year and a half of research, the plan, which recommends several strategic actions to promote economic prosperity in the region, will … Read more

Ramaco Carbon scientists are pictured outside the company's innovation center under construction in Wyoming.
Communities

Governor lauds new West Virginia carbon research facility

by David Sibray

Governor Jim Justice has announced an agreement with Ramaco Carbon to open a new research facility in West Virginia to pursue research related to the use of coal as the precursor for advanced carbon products and materials. “I am excited beyond belief to welcome Ramaco Carbon’s next incredible research facility to our great state. It’s … Read more

Map of the National Coal Heritage Area
Communities

Grant funding available for coal heritage projects

by David Sibray

The National Coal Heritage Area Authority is seeking proposals for funding for projects that support community efforts to interpret, preserve, and promote coal heritage resources in southern West Virginia. Projects must be located within the National Coal Heritage Area in Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Summers, Wayne, Wyoming counties and the … Read more

Communities

Help for historic properties in Allegheny counties

by WVExplorer

The Preservation Alliance of West Virginia is seeking endangered historic properties in Preston, Monroe, Randolph, Greenbrier, and Pocahontas counties in need of technical assistance from licensed professionals to aid in revitalization efforts. Assistance will be provided to low-income individuals who own a historic building or serve on the board of a nonprofit organization that will … Read more

The governor's office reports taht December 2019 revenue collections were $6.9 million above estimates.
Communities

Justice reports December revenue $6.9 million surplus

by Clyde Craig

Entering 2020, Governor Jim Justice reported today that December 2019 revenue collections were $6.9 million above estimates, which was 1.2 percent above prior year receipts. December also marks the end of the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, which cumulatively is 1.4 percent below the record-breaking prior year receipts. After a disappointing two months that … Read more

Greiner, Favede, Rodenberg reach historic agreement among northern panhandle schools.
Communities

Historic higher-ed program created in northern panhandle

by Bianca Bosworth

Three institutions of higher education in West Virginia’s northern panhandle have reached a historic agreement to broaden academic support for students. Bethany College, Wheeling University, and West Liberty University announced the agreement Thursday during a news conference at Wheeling University’s Erickson Alumni Center. Billed as the first of its kind in West Virginia, the agreement … Read more