If you are considering a move to West Virginia, you may immediately think of bustling cities like Charleston or Huntington. However, this state has so much more to offer. From charming downtowns to community festivals, West Virginia’s small towns provide a peaceful and unique living experience. In this article from Redfin, we will explore 8 delightful small towns in West Virginia, each with its own distinctive charm and reasons to call it home.
1. Elkins, WV
Median sale price: $226,000
Homes for sale in Elkins | Apartments for rent in Elkins
Located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is surrounded by natural beauty and is known for its music and Appalachian culture. The town is famous for the Mountain State Forest Festival, one of the oldest and largest festivals in the state. Elkins also boasts the American Mountain Theater, where visitors can enjoy live performances of bluegrass, country, and folk music, celebrating the town’s Appalachian heritage.
2. Kingwood, WV
Median sale price: $180,000
Homes for sale in Kingwood | Apartments for rent in Kingwood
Kingwood is a peaceful town in northern West Virginia, home to the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival. The town’s downtown area showcases well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its history as a hub for local farmers and artisans. History enthusiasts can visit the James Clark McGrew House, a Victorian-style mansion and museum, providing insight into the town’s early prominent citizens.
3. Buckhannon, WV
Median sale price: $205,000
Homes for sale in Buckhannon | Apartments for rent in Buckhannon
Located in central West Virginia, Buckhannon offers a vibrant arts scene and hosts fun annual festivals like the West Virginia Strawberry Festival. The town is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College, bringing a lively atmosphere with student-led events, art shows, and sports. Buckhannon’s downtown area features unique shops and galleries, such as Artistry on Main, showcasing local artists’ work.
4. Marmet, WV
Median sale price: $115,000
Homes for sale in Marmet | Apartments for rent in Marmet
Marmet, a small town along the Kanawha River, has a fascinating history tied to West Virginia’s coal mining and river transportation industries. The town’s location on the river made it crucial for transporting coal, and remnants of its industrial past can still be seen. Visitors can explore the Marmet Lock and Dam, a significant river lock on the Kanawha, offering a glimpse into the town’s shipping and trade history. The nearby Coal River provides kayaking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the picturesque landscape.
5. Bridgeport, WV
Median sale price: $280,000
Homes for sale in Bridgeport | Apartments for rent in Bridgeport
Bridgeport, a growing town in northern West Virginia, offers opportunities for aviation enthusiasts at the nearby Mid-Atlantic Aerospace Complex. The town’s Charles Pointe area features shopping, dining, and year-round events, providing entertainment options for residents and visitors. The Benedum Civic Center hosts local theater productions, art classes, and community events, enriching Bridgeport’s cultural scene.
6. New Martinsville, WV
Median sale price: $158,000
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Situated along the Ohio River, New Martinsville offers scenic river views and hosts community events like the New Martinsville Regatta. The town’s downtown area boasts historic buildings like the Wetzel County Courthouse, showcasing Romanesque architecture. Fishing and boating opportunities on the Ohio River make New Martinsville a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Ravenswood, WV
Median sale price: $250,000
Homes for sale in Ravenswood | Apartments for rent in Ravenswood
Ravenswood, located on the Ohio River, features a riverfront park for relaxation and hosts events like the Ohio River Festival. The town’s historic district showcases well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its history as a river trade hub. Visitors can admire the Ravenswood Community Clock, a beloved local landmark in the town center.
8. Moundsville, WV
Median sale price: $122,500
Homes for sale in Moundsville | Apartments for rent in Moundsville
Moundsville is renowned for its ancient burial mounds and cultural landmarks like the Grave Creek Mound, one of the largest conical burial mounds in the U.S. Dating back over 2,000 years, the site offers a glimpse into prehistoric Native American culture. The town is also home to the former West Virginia State Penitentiary, now a museum that hosts tours and ghost hunts, attracting history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. With its mix of ancient history, haunted sites, and community events, Moundsville offers a memorable experience for visitors.
Methodology: The median home sale price is sourced from the Redfin Data Center.