You will find numerous opportunities to create a business, start a profession, or offer your services in the public sector. That could mean being on the road for a few hours. The reality of this state is that there is a rich immigration history. A top-tier public institution of higher education. Many people are moving there because they want to make a fresh start, whether by themselves or with their families. The lower real estate costs can save you some money here too, but that also means there are fewer funds available for public services. Thus, government services are underfunded. And its good to consider them. West Virginia's birth rate is slowing, from an annual average of almost 33,600 live births in the 1960s to 21,400 in the 1990s. For example, in California there is a greater demand for jobs in the technology industry, while in West Virginia the mining and logging industries are still strong. This is true for both property crimes. Grafton might not offer the best educational opportunities, but it ranks as the safest place to live according to information from Safewise. Middle Tennessee runs around $400,000. Also, the unemployment rate is high. May help in this regard. If you want to live with your family in the center of the state in a three bedroom apartment, you will have to pay around $1,025 per month. It is a stereotype that suggests that residents are socially backward, uneducated, agrarian workers who pick banjos and eat straw. Most homes are listed for sale below $150,000. This is about $15,000 below the national median and more than $20,000 below the wealthiest state. Moving from Nashville, Tennessee to West Virginia: $1236 - $2060. Sure, it's not Fiji or the Caribbean but Virginia has some beautiful beaches. That means everything is cheaper, but it also creates a job market where wages are lower too. His passion for helping people make successful transitions with minimal stress led him to launch MovingAstute.com a website dedicated to provide users helpful tips on making their relocation journeys go as smoothly as possible. Theres also the Amtrak Cardinal which will not only connect you to around 3 cities within the state, but will also connect you to the state from 18 cities outside the state. Noted for its mountains, rolling hills and many state parks, West Virginia offers a variety of outdoor recreational options that include hiking, mountain biking, skiing, fishing, hunting and whitewater rafting. List of the Pros of Living in Virginia. A few years ago if someone said they were thinki. line-height: 30px; West Virginia has as many as 834 elementary and secondary schools which are supervised by the West Virginia Board of Education. They include aerospace, healthcare, chemicals, and alternative energy. You can also book an Uber to travel to different parts of the state. Even those who move to West Virginia. So, if youre curious to know more about the state, keep reading as we unfold the essential information about the states economy, transportation infrastructure and more. Charleston, the state capital, is the largest city. There are widely varying viewpoints. Beckley has the highest crime rates here. 2. The state Senate passed the bill Monday and sent it to . 4. Reference to specific products, processes or Will welcome outsiders with open arms. The states of Pennsylvania and Kentucky border the state towards the north and southwest, whereas the eastern and northwestern parts are bordered by Maryland and Ohio. Many of the communities allow you to rent for less than $700 per month with a two- or three-bedroom place. Dwell on the benefits of living in West Virginia. Oftentimes, older Americans are easy targets of crime, and this could really impact your quality of life if you end up in a place where crime is problematic. A large percentage of the population lives in poverty (16%), and many families struggle to make ends meet. City Living, Country Relaxing. Best places to live in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Wheeling and Morgantown, and the state's strong . Renting is relatively affordable as well. The state roads. height: 0; In the first quarter of 2019, West Virginia actually led the nation in GDP growth. West Virginia is an interesting state that sits along the eastern seaboard of the United States. For instance, if you go towards the southern part which has highland areas and mountains, you will experience summers a little cooler, while winters may seem a little moderate. font-size: 18px; Even the biggest cities in West Virginia are relatively small. Some areas particularly have serious issues with opioids, meth, and heroin. Okay. And violent crimes. West Virginia is one of the best places to be on the planet when the autumn season arrives. Whether you are putting together your monthly budget. Its nothing like the great health care options in Virginia. Making it one of the most densely forested states in the country. Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in West Virginia. No wonder the state is nicknamed, The Mountain State. Removed from the stress and hustle of big cities. Marked clearly by the four seasons. Which means poor-quality schools. Earn a Degree. As I discussed earlier in the pros and cons of West Virginia. So, you are sure to earn big bucks in the state especially if you are in the healthcare sector. The Mountain State. Next, get the best deal on a mortgage for your home. [Detailed Pricing Guide]. Sometimes we're forced to stay home and snuggle up with hot chocolate. This articles discusses the best places to live, Your email address will not be published. You will be marvelled by the sights of beautiful gardens in the 82 acres of West Virginia Botanical Garden in the state where you can enjoy hiking or take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens. 8. If you go towards the south of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, you will be charmed by the 1,000 feet deep gorge at the New River. The two, who now call Redwood City, Calif., home, said the political climate back int . 7. The chances of finding a big entertainment scene are very limited here. And have a commute taking them in or around Pittsburg. If you ask the average person what they think about people from West Virginia, the word hillbilly often comes out. Charlotte: $1,292 average for a 1-bedroom, $1,444 average for a 2-bedroom. In fact, the unemployment rate for West Virginians without a college degree is more than twice as high as the unemployment rate for those who have a college degree. And as time permits. When their flowers are in full bloom. So much artistic talent in one stateit can get a little overwhelming. Its considered a big party school! Also, earn get cashback on all of your online purchases. Here are 11 things you need to know before moving to West Virginia. Next, we have some more of the worst things about West Virginia. This applies to both property crimes and violent crime rates. Charleston is the closest thing youll find to a major city here, with a population of over 50,000. Youve found yourself one of the best states in the country, complete with unbelievable vistas, charming small towns, and the friendliest folks around. Regardless, good luck with your decision. Illegal drug use, overdose rates, and drug addictions are issues here. As one of the most rural states in the country, West Virginia is a place where residents can truly experience life in the slow lane. The unemployment rate is still quite high, but proactive planning can help you to solve this issue relatively easily. We may receive commission from our partners when you click a link, complete a form or call a phone number. The average cost of living in West Virginia is very low. And get ready to hit the white water as you head downstream. On the other hand, if Washington D.C. or Baltimore are your go-to places. 2. If you decide to live in Morgantown, Beckley, or Martinsburg, youll pay about 50% less than that. It has a higher cost of living because of those circumstances, which means the price of everything is higher. Thus, neither I nor Dividends Diversify can be held liable for losses suffered by any party because of the information published on this website. -moz-transform: translateX(-50%); And the changing leaves put on a display. The mountains can keep temperatures down in the summer as well. And these factors lead to higher rates of poverty, crime, and drug abuse. Feb. 27, 2023, at 3:16 p.m. WVa Bill Would Give Tax Credits to Ex-Residents to Move Back. And keeping a lid on the West Virginia cost of living. One of the best things about living in West Virginia is the abundance of outdoor activities available. And thats all I have for today. But then again, Virginia is a more expensive state to live in. Get a low cost loan or mortgage from Lending Tree, Check your credit for free with Credit Karma, Get cash back on your online purchases with Rakuten, Save at the grocery store with the Ibotta app, Manage all your money with Personal Capital. But first, I want to address a very important question. West Virginia is one of those states. And view the night sky. "If you want to be irrelevant, you pull stunts like this," the paper wrote in a . West Virginia is widely known for its low cost of living, historical coal mining, and beautiful scenery. But, that is an industry in rapid decline. And makes managing your money less of a chore. If you are an Anesthesiologist, you will earn an average salary of around $2267,200, whereas Physicians, Ophthalmologists and Pediatricians can earn an average salary of around $207,040. Has seen poverty rates over 25%. We Welcome your Feedback about your Moving Experiences! Brad. There are a lot of ugly stereotypes that people apply to West Virginians. And finally, many of the roads in West Virginia are in poor condition, which means that they often become congested during peak hours. For that reason, prices are a little higher than one might expect, but offerings abound as construction is ongoing. That is why it was given the nickname of the Mountain State.. It is a city full of energy and culture. The views and opinions expressed within these documents do To make for a white Christmas. Because the population centers are relatively small, the tax base for services is lower in West Virginia than in other parts of the country. First of all, more than 90% of the population is white. 1. Economists and local community . The top companies here are coal industries and arent what they used to be. Some other good towns to consider for your West Virginia home include: The entire state has a very small-town feel about it. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $500 to $700 in many areas. Over 90% of those living here are white, one of the countrys highest. Even though most jobs are low paying, you may still find a few high-paying jobs here. For example, West Virginia is one of only a handful of states that does not have a hate crimes law. Or, your mortgage on that new home. In March 2019, West Virginia had a 5.1% unemployment rate for the state. Your basic fare for an UberXL would cost you around $3.87. If you are looking for a job in a particular field or region of the country, it is important to do your research and find out where the best opportunities are. Certain areas are particularly hard-hit by heroin, methamphetamine, and opioids. But there are still some practical aspects of moving to West Virginia that you should consider. The median list price per square foot in Pennsylvania is $133. How Much Does it Cost to Move Out of State, How Much Does it Cost to Move Across the Country, How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Motorcycle, Top Affordable Moving Companies in America. Top 10 reasons NOT to move to West Virginia. Answer (1 of 14): Well, I've lived here since I was two and I can't wait to get out. Related Article // Reasons NOT to move to Alaska. Regardless of the several reasons not to move . By maintaining a high credit score. Many people are seeking an escape from overcrowded cities to the simple country life, and West Virginia provides that in the most ideal way possible. And all they have to offer. Next, another one of the good things about West Virginia. West Virginia is contemplating a big tax break to lure back people who have moved away. Get a handle on your finances. Just keep an eye on them. Im here only to share my thoughts about essential topics for success. This sites only purpose is general information & entertainment. And . The state has lost the most population in percentage, dropping from 1.85 million in 2020 to 1.79 million in 2020. 5. Also Read: Top Affordable Moving Companies in America. And the nations capital. There can even be changes that bring out this disadvantage if you cross a county line. Violent crime is also higher in West Virginia than the average rate in the United States. If youre wondering about the healthcare costs for your entire family, make sure you keep aside $16,521, which is higher than the U.S national average of around $12,950 as stated by 24/7 Wall St. Small towns in VA are some of the most charming places in the whole country. They also lack proper maintenance after bad weather. Whether you're looking for metropolitan excitement or country leisure, Virginia is a top place to live. .description:after { Although it has great interstate highways that connect it with major cities, thats all there is to the state. any claim, loss or damage arising from the use of the information offered in So, why shouldnt you move to West Virginia? So, how about we get to the bottom of this. The best part about living in Morgantown is that you get to experience both the town and city lifestyle. The declining population here means that most places are sparsely populated. In the eyes of native West Virginians. Would not be complete. (8 Major Reasons), Why is Louisiana so poor? border-left: 10px solid transparent; Mean a lower income and sales tax base. The same goes for home prices. Numbeo has also given the estimated rent for apartments based on their location, size and number of bedrooms. The economy is one of the things youll be considering when moving. These tips and tools work anywhere you choose to live! While still others take up residence in the northern panhandle. Finding a good school district. In West Virginia, or anywhere for that matter. Come summer time, humidity is just part of everyday livin'. Furthermore, the state still produces most of the coal used in the United States. The highest rate applies to any income earned over . Blast to the Past. appropriateness for any particular purpose. West Virginia is extremely cheaper to own a house. Next up. Here are some reasons why they might not want to move here (but reasons that we love it). Or you have kids during their formative years. From 2010 to 2020, the population dropped 3.2%, or about 59,000 people. In West Virginia, a tenant is not required to provide notice for fixed end date leases, the lease expires on the last day of the lease (WV Code 37-6-5). The rolling hills of the state also create places where significant bridges are necessary to facilitate transportation. As a West Virginian, the mountains become part of your blood. AuthenticEccentric/flickr. Dont forget about your health as you will have to pay around $5,492 annually, which is higher than the U.S national average of around $4,266 per year. svg#us-map { Because you are going to find small-town and small-city living in this state. I enjoy setting and achieving goals, pursuing success, searching for my next place to live, and making the most of my money. Finally, other sectors are trying to pick up the slack. In terms of taxes, housing and utility prices, the state is quite affordable. A low cost of living is not always a great thing to have at home. West Virginia just has a few more problems than other states right now.Business email: [email protected] for stopping by The world according to Briggs, I make lists. And now I love the state. There are also few opportunities for minorities to advance economically or educationally. The state was also the 8th most popular place people moved to for health reasons. As the summer temperatures cool. In addition to this, West Virginia has a strong job market. stroke:#FFFFFF; Do your homework on health care service providers. Residents are friendly here. Monongalia County has a poverty rate of 25%. As I mentioned in the introduction. 4. Let's see the reason to relocate to West Virginia in 2022. And are within the majority demographic. Located in the Monongalia County near the Monongahela River, Morgantown has a population of as many as 138,176 people. Without addressing the bad things about living in West Virginia too. The state has one of the most rural populations in the country. Here are a few things and places to consider. Top 10 reasons NOT to move to West Virginia. West Virginia is often dubbed as The Mountain State, and for the right reasons. But when it comes to calling this beautiful state home, we wouldnt have it any other way and we think youll ultimately agree. These things add up. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. With access to uncrowded, scenic places in the countryside, and vast mountain ranges. This has led to many young people leaving the state and only a few moving in.