If you’re considering relocating to West Virginia, you might immediately think of bustling cities like Charleston or Huntington. However, West Virginia has a lot more to offer beyond its urban centers. From charming downtown areas to community festivals, the small towns of West Virginia provide a glimpse into a quieter and more serene way of life. In this Redfin post, we’ll explore 8 delightful small towns in West Virginia, each with its own distinct personality and plenty of reasons to make it your home.
1. Elkins, WV
Median sale price: $226,000
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Located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and is known for its rich music and Appalachian heritage. The town is famous for the Mountain State Forest Festival, a historic event that celebrates the forestry industry with craft fairs, parades, and outdoor activities. Elkins is also home to the American Mountain Theater, where visitors can enjoy live performances of bluegrass, country, and folk music, paying homage to the town’s Appalachian roots.
2. Kingwood, WV
Median sale price: $180,000
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Kingwood is a peaceful town in northern West Virginia known for the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival, a tradition since 1938 that features buckwheat cakes, arts and crafts, and livestock shows. The town’s downtown area boasts well-preserved 19th-century buildings that reflect its history as a hub for local farmers and artisans. History enthusiasts can visit the James Clark McGrew House, a Victorian mansion turned museum, offering insights into the life of one of Kingwood’s prominent early residents.
3. Buckhannon, WV
Median sale price: $205,000
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Located in central West Virginia, Buckhannon is a vibrant town with a thriving arts scene and exciting annual festivals. The town hosts the renowned West Virginia Strawberry Festival each spring, celebrating the state’s agricultural heritage with parades, live music, and delectable strawberry treats. Home to West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon buzzes with student-led events, art showcases, and sporting activities. Its downtown area features unique shops and galleries like Artistry on Main, where local artists exhibit their creations.
4. Marmet, WV
Median sale price: $115,000
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Nestled along the Kanawha River, Marmet has a fascinating history intertwined with West Virginia’s coal mining and river transportation industries. The town’s strategic location for coal transport along the river is evident in remnants of its industrial past. Visitors can explore the Marmet Lock and Dam, a significant river lock on the Kanawha, offering a glimpse into the town’s shipping and trading heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking on the nearby Coal River, which features scenic trails for paddlers to discover the beautiful landscape.
5. Bridgeport, WV
Median sale price: $280,000
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Bridgeport, a thriving town in northern West Virginia, offers a glimpse into aerospace development at the nearby Mid-Atlantic Aerospace Complex. The town’s Charles Pointe area features a mix of shopping, dining, and year-round events, providing residents and visitors with ample entertainment options. The Benedum Civic Center in Bridgeport hosts local theater productions, art classes, and community events, enriching the town’s cultural tapestry.
6. New Martinsville, WV
Median sale price: $158,000
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Located along the Ohio River, New Martinsville is cherished for its picturesque river views. The town’s riverfront area serves as a hub for community events, including the New Martinsville Regatta featuring high-speed powerboat races. History buffs can explore the downtown district adorned with historic buildings like the Wetzel County Courthouse, showcasing Romanesque architecture. Fishing and boating enthusiasts can take advantage of New Martinsville’s proximity to the Ohio River for recreational activities.
7. Ravenswood, WV
Median sale price: $250,000
Homes for sale in Ravenswood | Apartments for rent in Ravenswood
Ravenswood, situated on the banks of the Ohio River, offers a serene riverfront park for relaxation and hosts events like the Ohio River Festival with boat races, live music, and local food vendors. The town’s historic district showcases well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its early prominence as a trading hub along the river. Visitors can admire the Ravenswood Community Clock in the town center, a beloved local landmark worth seeing.
8. Moundsville, WV
Median sale price: $122,500
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Moundsville is renowned for its ancient burial mounds and distinctive cultural landmarks. The town’s centerpiece, the Grave Creek Mound, is one of the largest conical burial mounds in the U.S., offering a glimpse into prehistoric Native American culture dating back over 2,000 years. Moundsville is also home to the former West Virginia State Penitentiary, a striking Gothic-style prison transformed into a museum that offers tours and ghost hunts, attracting visitors intrigued by the paranormal. With its blend of ancient history, haunted sites, and community events, Moundsville offers an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Methodology: The median home sale price data is sourced from the Redfin Data Center.