West Virginia is known for its epic outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes. From mountains to forests to whitewater rivers, the scenery in West Virginia is picturesque. This beautiful state is also known for its extensive military history. Those wanting a good mix of the outdoors, history, and affordability will love West Virginia.
NewHomeSource has named the top 10 cities for retirees in West Virginia. This article will help you find the perfect city to start your new life.
1. Clarksburg
Percentage of Population Over 65: 16.80%
Median Home Value: $86,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 17
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 106
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 9
The best city to retire in in West Virginia is Clarksburg. Folks who choose to retire here can explore the Quality Hill Historic District, relax at parks and lakes, and watch a live concert at Clarksburg Amphitheater. Plenty of family-owned cafes and coffee shops are sprinkled across the city, where you can gather with friends and celebrate retirement.
2. Parkersburg
Percentage of Population Over 65: 19.90%
Median Home Value: $91,100
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 206
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,235
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 3
Parkersburg is the spot where the Little Kanawha and Ohio rivers intersect. It is a lively city surrounded by mouth-watering restaurants, breweries, and an assortment of historic attractions. When you are in the mood to participate in recreational activities, you will have a tough choice to make: You can spend your days mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, and more.
3. Weirton
Percentage of Population Over 65: 22%
Median Home Value: $94,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 14
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 88
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 9
Retirees wanting to settle down in a city dripping with history will love Weirton. This town is bursting with history about the Revolutionary War. Additionally, the Weirton Steel Company makes the city very intriguing. Those who decide to retire in Weirton will be delighted to know it’s only a 30-minute drive to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This allows you to live off the beaten path, and still have an easy commute to the big city when the mood strikes.
4. Huntington
Percentage of Population Over 65: 15.4%
Median Home Value: $98,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 333
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,813
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 9
Huntington is the second-largest city in West Virginia and is commonly referred to as H-town. It’s fair to say that Huntington has a little bit of everything. Here you will find tranquil parks, fascinating museums, exquisite fine-dining restaurants, awesome cafes, unique shopping, and more!
5. Wheeling
Percentage of Population Over 65: 22.6%
Median Home Value: $110,100
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 254
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 341
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 8
Wheeling is West Virginia’s first state capital, but residents voted to move it to Charleston in 1885. Plenty of Civil War soldiers marched across the area, and if you love history, you can immerse yourself in museums and landmarks. Additionally, Wheeling has an abundance of outdoor activities folks can enjoy, including swimming, tennis, and mini-golf.
6. Beckley
Percentage of Population Over 65: 20.2%
Median Home Value: $110,000
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 165
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 930
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 5
Beckley is a small town located in the Appalachian Mountains, and the landscape is breathtaking. It is an idyllic place for outdoor lovers to spend their golden years. Grandview National Park is one of the many spots to connect with nature. Residents enjoy hiking, picnicking, boating, fishing, and camping. At the end of an action-packed day, you can relax and at a live outdoor concert.
7. Fairmont
Percentage of Population Over 65: 18.2%
Median Home Value: $110,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 70
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 306
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 9
The city of Fairmont has something that everyone can enjoy. Folks spend their days enjoying outdoor activities, dining on divine food, and absorbing the city’s rich history. Fairmont is yet another city in West Virginia packed with stories and relics of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Those wanting to retire in a town with plenty of diverse cuisines, outdoor activities, and a fascinating past will love Fairmont.
8. St. Albans
Percentage of Population Over 65: 23.2%
Median Home Value: $113,300
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 34
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 326
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 6
Retirees who are looking for a tight-knit community with a friendly atmosphere will love St. Albans. The city is surrounded by the Kanawha and Coal Rivers, so those who love spending time in or near the water will think they are in paradise. Kayaking is a favorite for residents, and even attracts tourists. If gliding by spellbinding sites while making new friends sounds appealing, then St. Albans may be your perfect destination.
9. South Charleston
Percentage of Population Over 65: 19.1%
Median Home Value: $130,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 53
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 631
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 7
South Charleston is another small city known for its extensive history. Those who decide to retire in South Charleston can spend their days relaxing at Little Creek Park, learning about its history at one of the many museums. Afterward, grab some friends and enjoy small talk and delicious food at friendly cafes.
10. Vienna
Percentage of Population Over 65: 24.1%
Median Home Value: $134,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 29
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 380
Number of Hospitals Within One Mile of the City: 3
Vienna is a city that has everything you could need. If you are an adventure lover, you will be glad to know that this city is brimming with recreational activities. Folks who retire in Vienna can spend their days biking, camping, fishing, hiking, golfing, relaxing at the natural springs, and so much more. Additionally, you can shop at malls that also feature several tasty restaurants.
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city.
Drew Port is a writer for NewHomeSource. She writes on the homebuying process, as well as informing readers on homeownership.
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