I. Introduction
West Virginia, often called the “Mountain State,” is a land of striking natural beauty, a place where the rugged Appalachian Mountains meet lush forests and fast-flowing rivers. The state’s charm is undeniable, with a rich cultural heritage and a slower pace of life, which has sparked growing interest as a relocation destination. But beneath its picturesque surface lie complexities and challenges that prospective residents must consider. This blog post aims to provide an in-depth exploration of West Virginia, delving into both its allure and its drawbacks, to help you determine if the Mountain State is the right fit for your next chapter. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of affordable living, the call of the outdoors, or a desire for a close-knit community, it’s crucial to have a balanced perspective before packing your bags.
II. Why Consider Moving to West Virginia?
West Virginia offers a unique combination of benefits that appeal to a variety of people. Here are a few reasons why the Mountain State might be the perfect place for you:
- Affordability: One of West Virginia’s most compelling advantages is its low cost of living. Housing prices are significantly more affordable than in many other states, with the possibility of finding properties with acreage for under $100,000. This makes homeownership much more attainable for many.
- Natural Beauty & Outdoor Activities: The state is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The state is characterized by its mountains, forests, and open spaces, providing a scenic backdrop for many activities. Some of the outdoor recreation opportunities include:
- Hiking trails at Blackwater Falls State Park.
- Swimming and boating below the New River Gorge Bridge.
- Whitewater rafting on the Blackwater and Gauley Rivers.
- Skiing, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating.
- Hot springs at Berkley Springs State Park.
- West Virginia is also a great place for stargazing due to the lack of street lights.
- Unique Culture and Community: West Virginia is known for its friendly and helpful people. The state boasts a slower pace of life, which makes for a quieter lifestyle. It is also home to a strong Appalachian folk culture with vibrant music and artistic traditions. There are many local art galleries and folk music festivals. The state’s unique cuisine includes pepperoni rolls, Tudor’s Biscuit World, and West Virginia-style hot dogs.
- Relocation Incentives: West Virginia is actively seeking new residents by offering financial incentives. The Ascend WV program, for instance, offers $12,000 over two years, plus access to outdoor activities, for remote workers or business owners who relocate to the state.
III. The Other Side of the Mountain: Challenges and Considerations
Despite its attractions, West Virginia has significant challenges that potential movers should be aware of:
- Economic Issues: The state has a high poverty rate and is often ranked as one of the poorest states in the U.S.. There are limited job opportunities, especially in the tech and software industries. Some people see the state as “dying” because more people are moving out or dying than are moving in or being born. There are also concerns about education and healthcare opportunities.
- Social Issues: West Virginia faces a number of social challenges, including the presence of drug problems, poor infrastructure in some areas and bad roads. Limited internet access is also an issue in some areas. There is also a deep-seated distrust of outsiders, so it’s important for newcomers to learn the history of the region. It is also worth noting that some people in West Virginia have very conservative views.
- Regional Differences & Nuances: It is important to note the differences between regions in the state:
- Northern West Virginia is often considered more prideful.
- Eastern West Virginia is often considered more academic.
- Western West Virginians tend to keep to themselves.
- Southern West Virginians tend to be angrier.
- The Northern Panhandle is similar to Pennsylvania, and the Eastern Panhandle is similar to Virginia.
- The Eastern Panhandle is frequently considered the most beautiful part of the state.
- It is advised to stay away from the coalfields.
- Berkeley County has a high rate of drug use.
- Certain areas of the state are not recommended to be in after dark.
- Limited Entertainment: There can be a lack of evening entertainment and a sparse number of venues. Some consider the state boring, with not much to do besides hiking.
IV. Finding Your Place: Popular Areas and Cities in West Virginia
West Virginia has a diverse range of cities and towns, each with its own unique character. Here are a few of the most popular areas and their defining characteristics:
- Morgantown: A lively college town that is home to West Virginia University (WVU), Morgantown has a welcoming environment for outsiders. Many refer to it as “Lil Jersey” due to the number of students from New Jersey. However, it is known for having the worst traffic, especially on game days.
- Bridgeport: This smaller town has more tech jobs, especially federal ones, and is considered a nice environment.
- Fairmont: Smaller than Morgantown and Bridgeport, but it is also considered a nice town and is home to a university.
- Putnam County: A good location with easy access to the I-64 highway, the county includes towns like Hurricane, Teays Valley, and Winfield.
- Huntington: Home to Marshall University, Huntington has a good music and arts scene and is trying to be more inclusive and artsy. However, some people have very negative views of the town.
- Charleston: As the state capital, Charleston can be difficult to find parking in.
- Other Areas:
- It is generally advised to stay away from the coalfields.
- Summersville, Fayetteville, and Lewisburg are good options if you’re looking for more remote locations.
- The Eastern Panhandle is a more affordable area near larger cities.
- The Greenbrier Valley is also an amazing option.
V. Practicalities: Moving to West Virginia
Moving to a new state requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s what you should consider when moving to West Virginia:
- Hiring a Moving Company: It’s essential to hire a licensed and reputable mover for an interstate move. Researching and comparing company prices using calculators, is highly recommended. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates movers across state lines.
- Planning Your Move: Create a moving checklist to stay organized and set realistic deadlines for packing and tasks. It also helps to create a moving binder for important documents and packing materials.
- Logistical Considerations: Reserve elevators, research parking permits, and consider internet options, as some areas have poor service.
- Establishing Residency: To become a legal resident, you must meet certain criteria. It is also important to transfer an out-of-state driver’s license.
- Moving with Pets: Familiarize pets with their carriers and vehicles. Plan routes that include pet-friendly stops, and take your pets for a walk to help them destress after arriving.
VI. A Look at Virginia: How it Compares
For those considering a move from Virginia to West Virginia or vice versa, it’s useful to compare the two states.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Virginia is generally higher than in West Virginia, especially in the Northern Virginia region near Washington, D.C.
- Real Estate: The real estate market in Virginia has higher median home prices and rent, reflecting its proximity to urban areas. In contrast, West Virginia offers a more affordable housing market with larger lots and a focus on natural beauty.
- Culture: Northern Virginia is part of the Washington, D.C. metro area, and is the most densely populated area of the state. West Virginia has a distinct Appalachian culture.
- Food: Virginia’s food scene offers a blend of traditional Southern cooking and modern culinary trends. West Virginia keeps things hearty with staples like the Pepperoni Roll and Country Ham Steak.
VII. Conclusion
Moving to West Virginia is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of both the positive and negative aspects of life in the state. While West Virginia offers natural beauty, affordability, and a unique culture, it also has its challenges, including economic issues, social concerns, and limited entertainment options. The right choice for you depends on your personal priorities and preferences.
Before you make a move, it is critical that you weigh the pros and cons carefully. Consider your career, lifestyle, and personal values. If you need more information, connect with a real estate agent who can make your research process easier. This way, you will be better prepared to decide if West Virginia is the right place for you.