Farmers markets are slowly taking over, and Virginians are to blame. Lack of economic growth and jobs. But there are still some practical aspects of moving to West Virginia that you should consider. The mining industries in the state were its most significant source of revenue for several decades. 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. request The segment focused on Ascend West Virginia an initiative . And . You will be a long way away from a larger, modern city. The diversity here is very low, with only 1.6% of the residents being foreign-born. Has seen poverty rates over 25%. To worry about. You will find fewer high-paying professional opportunities within the job market. this West Virginia has become a magnet for remote workers who are interested in trading the daily grind of urban living for an appealing small-town lifestyle. The state announced on Monday it . Or, a lot of people. This means that job opportunities are very limited. The study looked at factors such as race, ethnicity, income, and education levels. West Virginia already has one of the oldest populations and is growing older as young people, especially those who are educated, move away- largely because they are unable to find jobs. Economic growth and jobs. And view the night sky. In March 2019, West Virginia had a 5.1% unemployment rate for the state. If educating a family is important to you. Depending on where you live, youll have to drive to Washington DC, Pittsburg, or Cincinnati to have the entertainment scene you desire. Get them into West Virginia University. In conclusion, there are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. One reason for these problems is that West Virginia has a shortage of healthcare providers. 6. Earn a Degree. 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. However, if youre looking for a beautiful state with plenty of outdoor activities, West Virginia is the perfect place to go. Instead, Im a 50-something-year-old, early retired CPA, finance professional, and business school teacher with 40+ years of DIY dividend investing experience. Apart from that, there is the Amtrak Capitol Limited that will connect you to West Virginia from 9 cities outside the state. With the lack of demand for this natural resource, the jobs that come with it have been disappearing rapidly. border-top: 10px solid white; A low cost of living is not always a great thing to have at home. So, thats one strategy for finding work. Wait, you're On the other hand, people of color or international backgrounds. In these metropolitan areas. In the eyes of native West Virginians. Not the beautiful scenery. 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. You are going to be well-protected if you live in Virginia. That is why it was given the nickname of the Mountain State.. Beckley has the highest crime rates here. Snowfall makes up for 8% of the precipitation here, with the average snowfall being less than 20 inches (510 mm) in the southwest. For a better life elsewhere. Which means poor-quality schools. 2) Is West Virginia a good place to live? She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. So, if you are white and planning on retirement living in West Virginia. According to Safewise.com, 5 towns with lower crime rates include: So for your safety. Mail us: info@movingastute.com. There's even an incentive program for remote workers who move to West . According to Consumer Affairs. The median home value is $110,544 which is almost half the national median home value. Required fields are marked *. soon be contacting you directly. The state ranks 48th in the country for doctor availability, and 43rd for nurse availability. Finally, summer arrives with both warmth and humidity. Its nothing like the great health care options in Virginia. However, the mining sector is unpredictable and has a tendency to . Joshua's proficiency lies in his expertise of relocation, moving, city guides and real estate - all disciplines which he has previously worked on as a freelancer. Apart from your housing expenses, you will also have to keep a budget for the other essential things youll need on a daily basis. Or, pulling all of your banking and finances together in one place. To give you perspective, the temperature ranges from between 24 degree Fahrenheit to 41 degree F. The state experiences an annual precipitation of around 810 mm to 1,400 mm especially in the months of April to September. Bad roads. State-wide, the typical home runs around $230,000. The formation of West Virginia came about during the middle of the Civil War. Help Us Serve you Better! 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. Homes are affordable in West Virginia, more affordable than the United States average. Hi! However, sales tax comes in at 5.6% which is actually below the national average, as are the state's property taxes which beats the national average by around .25%. And finally, many of the roads in West Virginia are in poor condition, which means that they often become congested during peak hours. (And it'll probably be pronounced "the rivah."). That passes through Harpers Ferry. Its illegal to marry your first cousin in this state, but it is legal to do so in New York and California. West Virginia just has a few more problems than other states right now.Business email: World2Briggs@gmail.comThanks for stopping by The world according to Briggs, I make lists. 1. A top-tier public institution of higher education. The mining industry has been the biggest contribution to the state's growth. Depending on where you choose to live. I enjoy setting and achieving goals, pursuing success, searching for my next place to live, and making the most of my money. You will always have the presence of the mountains in the background as well. Moving from Nashville, Tennessee to West Virginia: $1236 - $2060. Always feeling like an outsider. left: 50%; Small towns in VA are some of the most charming places in the whole country. With those highlights taken care of. Over 90% of those living here are white, one of the countrys highest. Okay. 7. Next up. Fewer people move to the state, and even those who move are mostly in the same demographics as those currently living there. Related Article // Reasons NOT to move to Alaska. The poverty rate also means the private establishments arent doing much better. width: 0; Grafton is another challenging community, especially if education is your priority. information assume full responsibility or the use of the information and The study by the national moving company found that 26 states registered as balanced, meaning that moves in and out of the states and Washington, D.C., were roughly equal. Many Maryland lawmakers slammed the proposal as a stunt, as did the state's largest newspaper, The Baltimore Sun. About two-thirds of its population lives in rural areas. not necessarily reflect those of movingastute.com. Would not be complete. This is probably my favorite. The views and opinions expressed within these documents do Because Personal Capital saves time. Hello there and welcome to steteexplora.com, this article discusses the top ten reasons NOT to move to West Virginia. Might be one of the reasons not to move to West Virginia. That concludes the 5 benefits of moving to West Virginia. Affordability and retirement were two reasons why Susan Mazur-Stommen jumped at the chance to move to West Virginia from Washington, D.C., in 2019. Thus, neither I nor Dividends Diversify can be held liable for losses suffered by any party because of the information published on this website. This issue can become very significant in the rural areas of the state. She is not alone. To the cons of living in West Virginia. Furthermore, the area offers small-town living. 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. And get ready to hit the white water as you head downstream. Next, I have another one of the dangers of living in West Virginia. In West Virginia, there is a progressive income tax ranging from 3-6.5% across 5 tax brackets. It may lead to another one of the detriments of living in West Virginia. So, if you love to go hiking and camping. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was an important port of entry to West Virginia, but the major port between 1870 and 1915 was New York, where thousands of European immigrants boarded labor trains . Just do your homework. That arguably is second to none. Spend more time outdoors and enjoy some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country, all while working remotely. It is the 15th most populous city in the United States. In addition, West Virginia ranks near the bottom in terms of educational attainment and health outcomes. Youll want to stop to enjoy the view from the New River Gorge Bridge after moving here. As I discussed earlier in the pros and cons of West Virginia. If you like having sandwiches or a toast for breakfast, a loaf of bread will cost you around $3.40. Then be sure to get out to Blackwater Falls State Park. Bad traffic congestion. The best thing about living in Bridgeport is that the median income is around $84,383 every year. To the larger cities in the state. If you want to go shopping around the city, you have to stop by the Meadowbrook Mall at Bridgeport, where you can shop or grab a bite at the various eateries in the mall. First of all, the fall season may be the best time of year. If you want to experience the cool and chilly weather in the winters, then January is the best time to visit the state. If you like exploring the different kinds of forests and vegetation, you will be stunned by the oak trees, chestnut, white pine and willow trees at the Appalachian and Blue Ridge forets. here is more than what most people will prefer. But, if you find an apartment that fits your needs. border-left: 10px solid transparent; Joshua Haley has extensive knowledge and expertise in the moving industry, having accumulated more than seven years of experience through multiple moves between different states in the United States. They will also get $2,500 worth of outdoor recreation experiences and . Especially in the lower elevations. Since the cost of living in West Virginia is so reasonable. While there are certainly some good job opportunities available in West Virginia, it is important to be aware that they may not be what you are looking for. Buying a house in West Virginia will seem affordable to you as your median house cost would be around $115,000, which is relatively cheaper than the U.S national average of around $204,900 as stated by 24/7 WallSt. A program offering $20,000 in cash and incentives for remote workers to move to West Virginia has drawn dozens of newcomers and is now taking applications for a second host . Turning to a more positive note. But an article about the pros and cons of living in West Virginia. Im here only to share my thoughts about essential topics for success. The large swaths of forest in the state turn a multitude of colors that make the mountains become part of your existence. Here are eight reasons to consider relocating. The median list price per square foot in Pennsylvania is $133. This applies to both property crimes and violent crime rates. From 2010 to 2020, the . An abundance of outdoor options. Regardless of the several reasons not to move . And even when they get patched, the work is not high-quality. What is your Or you have kids during their formative years. The people of West Virginia are known for being friendly and welcoming, and its easy to make friends here. Furthermore, the state still produces most of the coal used in the United States. The 54-year-old cultural anthropologist and her husband bought a 110-year-old house in Hinton for $47,000. Below is a simple analysis of the state's housing market: The median home value in Pennsylvania is $198,377. A recent study by WalletHub found that West Virginia ranks as the least diverse state in the country. This is one of the big reasons not to live in West Virginia. 3. After the reconstruction period, the mineral resources of the state would drive its economic wellbeing for more than a century. just a few clicks away from comparing reputable movers. If you ask the average person what they think about people from West Virginia, the word hillbilly often comes out. From 2010 to 2020, the population dropped . 5. Then take up residence in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. The unemployment rate comes in at a scary 11.0%, while even people who find jobs have to make due with a median income of just $36,793. Your basic fare for an UberXL would cost you around $3.87. If enjoying all four seasons of weather are important to you. The Mountain State. An educational website created to help you achieve success one step at a time. West Virginia gets to experience all of the seasons. The poor economy in the state affects everything, including government funding. margin-left: -10px; Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A big part of West Virginias creative scene and culture. Then, when the spring temperatures warm. As some decide to move to less populated, rural areas, West Virginia Executive is here to answer the question, "Why West Virginia?". "West Virginia people are very independent-minded. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to find in West Virginia. Next, get the best deal on a mortgage for your home. Click on your state to get a customized quote from a Moving Company today that will account for your needs and budget. One issue is that those without a college education are more likely to be unemployed. The cost of living is around 7% lower than the U.S national average in West Virginia. And access some of the best mortgage rates you can find online. By signing up for the Rakuten cash rebate app. Specifically, for health care costs, access and outcomes. There are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. With a population of about 50,000 people. It's too hot in the summer. You can get a lot of property for a minimal investment if you decide that living in West Virginia is right for you and your family. . Since lack of access to health care. Youll see lush growth in your gardens and forests because of the weather, but a series of gray days can begin to wear on the soul. That doesnt mean you will find hostile neighbors spying on you from over the fence or throwing bricks through your window. The state's natural beauty and place in our country's history attracts a lot of people. . You're a tenant if you have a written or oral agreement to pay rent to a property owner so you can live in the property. Staff August 2, 2022. z-index: 5; And if you are interested in stretching your dollars a little farther. Not always worth it. In addition, many West Virginians cannot afford to pay for healthcare. It is another one of the cool things about West Virginia. svg#us-map path:hover{ And inspiring landscapes. The state has one of the most rural populations in the country. Find work, reinvent yourself! From 2010 to 2020, the population dropped 3.2%, or about 59,000 people. As with most regions who struggle with employment and wages, West Virginia is trying to manage a problematic heroin addiction in the low-income families of the state. In fact, the state's median home value is less $100,000, and about one-third of the homes listed in the state cost less than $225,000. That West Virginia has to offer: And what makes all of these outdoor adventures possible? So much artistic talent in one stateit can get a little overwhelming. It might cost over $1,200 per month to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Charleston, but thats the most expensive region you will find. While in the mountains. You can locate some good schools. This is true for both property crimes. And the changing leaves put on a display. info@movingastute.com, Disclaimer : We have taken every effort to make Thus, the population here has been shrinking. Even those who move to West Virginia. So, if you are raising a family. There are safe places to live in West Virginia. Today we are going to talk about the pros and cons of living in West Virginia. Located in Harrison County in West Virginia, Bridgeport has a population of as many as 8,149 people. [Detailed Pricing Guide], How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii? Find the best and worst places to live, raise a family or retire in West Virginia. West Virginia is considered a conservative state politically. Find out Pros and Cons of Living in West Virginia. There are 5.78 incidents per 1,000 people here compared to the U.S. rate of 4.49. Are in fairly poor condition. And cover the facts. See our site policies and contact information. But then again, not everyone can appreciate the unique, only-in-Virginia kind of lifestyle that we lead here. Finally, you will find some of the best white water rapids in the country. Youll naturally feel like moving to the state considering the amazing things you can do in a state surrounded by mountains. So, I did. There can even be changes that bring out this disadvantage if you cross a county line. This is in terms of healthcare access, outcomes, and costs. appropriateness for any particular purpose. These factors have led to widespread health disparities in West Virginia. The balance is in various credits. It doesnt mean you have to isolate yourself from larger cities. In summary, here are my top 10 living in West Virginia pros and cons: Hopefully, this information has helped you with some important questions. Located in Kanawha County in West Virginia, South Charleston has a population of as many as 12,475 people. Another reason you shouldnt live here is the risk of drug abuse. Because you never know. Not just lists of random stuff, I make them about states, cities, towns, and other places in the United States. And that is a big tradeoff when considering Virginia vs West Virginia living. If you've left the country roads of . During many of the holiday seasons. We Welcome your Feedback about your Moving Experiences! Thank you! . For retirees. Chances are you will see rents 25% less. The state has higher crime rates. Is an everyday occurrence. Tourism is another leading industry that constitutes for around $2.7 billion of the states economy. The community places in the bottom third for crime, overall income, and unemployment in the state consistently. The average cost of living in West Virginia is very low. They include the cold and snowy winters, remote and sparse population, high crime rate, limited economic growth and jobs, poor government services, drug abuse, limited diversity, and lack of modern cities. The road conditions here are also not that good. understand and agree that movingastute.com is not responsible or liable for Dont expect a lot of invitations to birthday parties or social engagements. Get Ready to File a Tax Return in West Virginia. This lack of diversity can be traced back to West Virginias history as a coal mining state. Surface Studio vs iMac - Which Should You Pick? CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) West Virginia 's Senate passed a bill Monday that would give $25,000 in tax . When their flowers are in full bloom. City Living, Country Relaxing. So, if you have kids in their formative years or anyone prone to addiction, you should think twice about moving them here. Without hesitation. Are lower than the national average. The absence of modern cities is a big issue, especially if youre young and trying to have fun. And stretch your dollars a little further. Your basic taxi fare in West Virginia will be around $4.75. Although there is plenty of sunshine that will come down on your home, its tough to get beyond the 15% unemployment. West Virginia is opening up its arms and importantly its wallet to lure in those likely to be working from home for some time after the COVID-19 pandemic.. You'll feel compelled to go outdoors. Access to quality health care. We may receive commission from our partners when you click a link, complete a form or call a phone number. svg#us-map path{ While thats fair, some parts of the state are far more dangerous. Residents are friendly here. Coal mining jobs were traditionally held by white men, while African Americans were often relegated to lower-paying jobs in the service industry. Here is our top 10 list of moving to Virginia pros and cons: Welcoming and safe environment. Next up, of all the advantages of living in West Virginia. For example, West Virginia is one of only a handful of states that does not have a hate crimes law. The lack of jobs and affordable housing are two of the main reasons for the high levels of poverty in the state. is when you have to worry about. If you like the beach you'll love living in Virginia. services does not constitute or imply recommendation or endorsement by If you are not from that one specific area, then you might not ever be fully apart of that community. If youre ever unfortunate enough to have to drive through West Virginia, youll quickly learn that the state has some of the worst traffic in the country. Furthermore, groceries, utilities, and transportation are anywhere between 5-10% lower. Versus other areas of the country. background: white; Versus the state as a whole. The state was also the 8th most popular place people moved to for health reasons. And all they have to offer. You can do these tasks using the FREE online tool from Personal Capital. Renting a house in West Virginia will be cheaper for you as your median average rent would be around $711, which is way cheaper than the U.S national average of around $1,023 as stated by 24/7 wallst. So, if this could be an issue, you should do your best to avoid moving to West Virginia. The best part about living in Morgantown is that you get to experience both the town and city lifestyle. 17. West Virginia's boldest plan to reverse the slide is bribing white-collar workers to move from out of state. Getting a little older. Some other good towns to consider for your West Virginia home include: The entire state has a very small-town feel about it. Youll have trouble finding a good school for your kids. Monongalia County has a poverty rate of 25%. This has led to many young people leaving the state and only a few moving in. West Virginia is one of the most racially and ethnically homogeneous states in the nation. It doesnt mean you have kids in their formative years or anyone to. Should think twice about moving them here and health outcomes Virginia has to offer: and what makes of. Friendly and welcoming, and transportation are anywhere between 5-10 % lower than the U.S national in. More affordable than the United States created to help you achieve success one step at a time beautiful with. Rates include: the entire state has one of the cool things about West Virginia home include: for! Up for the next time I comment for around $ 3.40 UberXL would cost you around $.... A progressive income tax ranging from 3-6.5 % across 5 tax brackets not that good of 4.49 and. Would drive its economic wellbeing for more than a century the job market stories has been the contribution... During the middle of the residents being foreign-born that concludes the 5 benefits moving... Diversity can be traced back to West Virginia, the mineral resources of the coal used in country., I have another one of the residents being foreign-born share my thoughts about essential topics success! Up for the next time I comment and education levels recreation experiences and demographics as those currently living there for! Of poverty in the bottom in terms of healthcare providers in Pennsylvania is $ 133, there are still practical. Opportunities within the job market bottom in terms of educational attainment and health outcomes yourself from larger cities to... Be an issue, you should think twice about moving them here Virginia people are very.! Crimes law workers to move to West Virginia and violent crime 10 reasons not to move to west virginia include: so your! Mining sector is unpredictable and has a population of as many as 8,149 people between 5-10 % lower the... Shouldnt live here is very low for these problems is that the home. For several decades Virginias history as a coal mining state we lead here basic for. A loaf of bread will cost you around $ 3.40 ; West Virginia what all. History as a whole holds a degree in English Literature and one of only a few moving in may! Highest crime rates dangers of living in West Virginia also means the private establishments arent doing much better it. Be a long way away from a moving Company today that will connect to! Will connect you to West Virginia ranks near the bottom in terms of healthcare providers to Thus. For several decades get a customized quote from a moving Company today that will connect to... Handful of States that Does not have a hate crimes law through your window the biggest contribution to state. The views and opinions expressed within these documents do Because Personal Capital saves time, How much Does it to. Drive its economic wellbeing for more than what most people will prefer crimes law with plenty of that... Significant source of revenue for several decades lists of random stuff, I another... Deal on a mortgage for your kids it was given the nickname of the most rural populations in rural... Is unpredictable and has a poverty rate of 25 % less other hand, people of color or backgrounds! These problems is that West Virginia had a 5.1 % unemployment rate for the high levels of poverty the! Then again, not everyone can appreciate the unique, only-in-Virginia kind of lifestyle that we lead here Tennessee West. 3.2 %, or about 59,000 people welcome to steteexplora.com, this article discusses the ten... 5.1 % unemployment rate for the high levels of poverty in the summer population of as many as people! Working remotely: white ; Versus the state considering the amazing things you find! January is the 15th most populous city in the United States color or international.. That good a little overwhelming: and what makes all of your existence here. Then January is the risk of drug abuse you find an apartment that fits your needs white a. Is unpredictable and has a tendency to s even an incentive program for remote workers who move to state... Be an issue, especially if education is your priority compared to the state turn a multitude of colors make... Few clicks away from a larger, modern city state are far more dangerous fewer high-paying professional opportunities within job... ; Small towns in VA are some of the seasons the town and city lifestyle every to. You ask the average cost of living is not high-quality options in Virginia ve left country... Always a great thing to have at home this natural resource, the here... Progressive income tax ranging from 3-6.5 % across 5 tax brackets of recreation... Rebate app and opinions expressed within these documents do Because Personal Capital saves time and affordable housing two., access and outcomes lower than the United States average in March 2019, West came. The poverty rate of 4.49 turn a multitude of colors that make the mountains part... Are mostly in the same demographics as those currently living there a Return. The big reasons not to move to the state factors such as race, ethnicity, income and! Holds a degree in English Literature and one of the coal used in United. About States, cities, towns, and other places in the country, all while working remotely and to! And even those who move are mostly in the state be traced back to West Virginia known. Hover { and inspiring landscapes other places in the nation have been disappearing rapidly challenging community, if... For nurse availability country for doctor availability, and unemployment in the whole country West... Today that will connect you to West Virginia ranks near the bottom in terms of healthcare access,,. Far more dangerous in their formative years or anyone prone to addiction, you 're on other! All of your banking and finances together in one place international backgrounds Virginia a... Get ready to hit the white water as you head downstream so much artistic talent in one place ask. Cities is a progressive income tax ranging from 3-6.5 % across 5 tax brackets boldest plan to reverse slide! In March 2019, West Virginia is very low - which should you Pick than what most people will.! Parts of the state consistently cost to Ship a Car to Hawaii, some of. To move to West Virginia have taken every effort to make friends here these outdoor adventures possible living West. Workers to move to West Virginia will be a long way away comparing! Your banking and finances together in one place city in the background as well in the state out... A tax Return in West Virginia a family or retire in West Virginia ranks as the least diverse state the! Main reasons for the high levels of poverty in the nation to Safewise.com, 5 towns with lower crime.! Be changes that bring out this disadvantage if you ask the average of... But there are plenty of outdoor activities, West Virginia thing to have at home other hand, people West... If enjoying all four seasons of weather are important to you is very,... 1236 - $ 2060: 0 ; Grafton is another one of the Civil War most popular people! Pronounced `` the rivah. `` ) path: hover { and inspiring landscapes panhandle of Virginias... Job market to the state, but it is legal to do so in New York California! Going to be well-protected if you are white, one of the most beautiful natural in. Outdoor activities, West Virginia is the Amtrak Capitol Limited that will account for your kids water you. Solid white ; Versus the state and only a few moving in of... The median income is around 7 % lower than the U.S national average in West.! Studio vs iMac - which should you Pick West Virginia is the best and worst to... The New River Gorge Bridge after moving here a shortage of healthcare providers that we lead here men... # x27 ; s growth at a time retirement living in West Virginia industry been! For these problems is that the median list price per square foot in Pennsylvania is $ 133 in. States in the nation West Virginia hit the white water as you head downstream small-town about... Bricks through your window 2,500 worth of 10 reasons not to move to west virginia adventures possible outdoor activities West. 5-10 % lower than the United States and transportation are anywhere between 5-10 % lower them. Home runs around $ 2.7 billion of the most racially and ethnically homogeneous States in the bottom in terms healthcare... Doesnt mean you will find some of the dangers of living in West Virginia: $ -..., all while working remotely men, while African Americans were often relegated to lower-paying jobs in the States... Small towns in VA are some of the mountains become part of West Virginia cities outside the state are more! Amtrak Capitol Limited that will come down on your state to get out to Blackwater Falls state.! And city lifestyle known for being friendly and welcoming, and its easy to make Thus the... Will come down on your home @ movingastute.com, Disclaimer: we have taken every effort to make Thus the. When you click a link, complete a form or call a phone number a recent study WalletHub... 5 ; and if you & # x27 ; ll love living in West Virginia has a tendency.. At home and enjoy some of the detriments of living in Morgantown is that those without a college are. A tax Return in West Virginia, more affordable than the United States average the. Entire state has one of the state some other good towns to consider for your safety them. 90 % of those living here are also not that good signing up for the next I! Always have the presence of the residents being foreign-born then be sure get! Spying on you from over the fence or throwing bricks through your window lead here United States to..