2023 Most Diverse Places to Live in West Virginia

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.45 out of 5  11 reviews

Current Resident: I love living in Ranson WV. I have great neighbors and the town is in the growing process which should help my home value increase. Mostly a farming community so the natural beauty is still surrounding most of the town. It is quiet and a great place.... Read 11 reviews

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• Population 5,404

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.45 out of 5  33 reviews

Current Resident: I was born in Bluefield. I left at 18 for college. I worked in Charlottesville and Philadelphia for a total of 42 years. I came home to retire. I am very sad to see how the town has deteriorated in the years I was gone. The schools were outstanding when I was a secondary student. Now they are severely lacking. The area needs more innovative means for creating jobs. The loss of the hospital was horrible. Medical care is definitely below par and very difficult to obtain . Citizens travel incredible distances to receive standard of care therapy. The weather is wonderful. The four seasons beautiful. Some areas are well maintained and respected by people others not. I remain hopeful that Bluefield can survive and improve. Education is key. Better jobs are a necessity and cleaning the town of dilapidated buildings would be an improvement. I like the peaceful lifestyle and now that I am a retired person, "things to do" are not priority. I love the Christmas festival if lights!... Read 33 reviews

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• Population 9,699

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 4.09 out of 5  47 reviews

Former Resident: I lived in Charles Town for 10 years on the same property overlooking the beautiful Shenandoah river. I absolutely loved West Virginia for many reasons; some of which are very near and dear, such as its historically rich background - take a stroll through Harper's Ferry and read some of the historical plaques that honor both its tremendous heritage, current culture, and the brave West Virginians who decades ago gave their lives to protect the freedom of the rolling hills and plains you see today. Secondly, the scenery is absolutely spectacular - not as many states can boast at the minimum 5 different species of pine trees in your backyard! And last but not least, the community. During my time I lived in this beautiful state,I realized not only that I lived in a state with rich history and beautiful scenery, but also, a tight-knit and supportive community. Two of my siblings attended Shepherd University (30 minutes from Charles Town) and truly enjoyed both the community and academics.... Read 47 reviews

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• Population 6,373

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.01 out of 5  112 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in the greater Martinsburg area for most of my life. Even though it keeps growing, Martinsburg still has the small home town feel. The scenery is absolutely stunning. We have beautiful mountains, trails, and playgrounds. We are also near historic civil war parks such as Antietam and Gettysburg. We are close to Shepherd University and Blue Ridge Technical and Community College. Martinsburg has something for everyone. And finally, the cost of living is affordable. Byying a house or renting is so much more affordable than the bigger places within a half hour drive. Come see the beautiful city of Martinsburg West Virginia.... Read 112 reviews

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• Population 18,502

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 2.55 out of 5  20 reviews

Current Resident: Although Glenville may be a small town nestled deep within the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, it is a charming settlement that can make the farthest traveler feel as if they are at home. Glenville's population may be small as well, but it is a close-knit community that is willing to lend a hand to those in need. In addition to this, the college located here, for 148 years, has brought life and vigor. College students and staff work closely with the local residents to ensure that the town is beautiful as well as full of fun activities to do and places to visit. If you are interested in settling in a small town that will bring no harm to you, Glenville may just be the place for you.... Read 20 reviews

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• grade A minus

• Population 1,220

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.25 out of 5  55 reviews

Current Resident: Mountain momma take me home! I have lived in the growing town of Beckley, West Virginia for fifteen years. My teenage, young adult, now adult life has been spent here. From our local owned businesses, big franchise named stores, parks, and health care facilities we have expanded. If I had to sum up the town of Beckley in one word I would say friendly. The public schooling was one of the best experiences of my life. I have made great friends and obtained a quality education in Beckley. There is not much I would do to change this place. I feel completely safe when I walk down my street and in todays world that is saying something. If I had to complain about anything I believe it would be the condition of our roads. Many people have damage to their car from a simple pot hole. There are so many everywhere. This complaint is something that is being fixed. We are working together to build a beautiful, secure, prosperous place to live. Come visit!... Read 55 reviews

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• Population 17,261

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.61 out of 5  179 reviews

Former Resident: Charleston is the capital of WV. The downtown east end was always my favorite because of all the stores, malls, and tall buildings. There was plenty to do, and you could walk everywhere and have public transportation. I love riding the KRT bus; it would take you all over Charleston and through all the outskirts. I would have to want to change how the city approaches the homeless community. There are many resources to help, but they turn a blind eye, much like other big cities. I rate a 4 out of 5 overall.... Read 179 reviews

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• Population 49,055

Current Resident: Dunbar is a very small town, one that I have only small connection to despite being a resident (living outside town proper). A mostly rural area.... Read 21 reviews

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• Population 7,500

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3 out of 5  5 reviews

Nearby Resident: It is a very great town, small and not much to offer. Since the mining industry has been reduced to hardly anything because of poor administration and bans on coal mining activities from the Democratic side of the government. It has rich history and at one time was called the little apple. There used to be great wealth and ten times the amount of people that are now living here. The economy is almost dead, but the tourist industry is starting to pick up because of our amazing trails.... Read 5 reviews

• grade C

• grade D

• grade B+

• Population 3,050

Current Resident: I love how close I am to everything, it usually takes about 5 mins to get to places. Second, I love my street and how nice everyone is towards each other. Something I do not like about South Charleston is the drug problems that are shown on the streets. Lastly I love my church community in South Charleston WV, and how much they do for our community. I am so blessed I get to be apart of helping our city be a better place for the future generations.... Read 23 reviews

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• Population 13,595

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 2.91 out of 5  11 reviews

Current Resident: I moved here to go to college and ended up enjoying the environment and friendly people. There's so many different cultures here that it makes it very diverse which makes for easy living. There's not a while lot to do socially or activity wise but if you're a nature person there's so much forest and land to explore.... Read 11 reviews

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• grade B

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• Population 3,019

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 4.37 out of 5  19 reviews

Current Resident: Shepherdstown, WV, is a wonderful historic town about 75 miles west of Washington, DC. It is also a short distance to two other historic towns - Harpers Ferry and Charles Town which were made famous by the raid and trial of John Brown, the American abolitionist leader. The downtown shops are small and unique, many selling items by local merchants. For the history of Shepherdstown, stop by the museum on downtown German Street where you'll find relics, and facts dating back to the early 1700s and the Civil War era. For diverse entertainment, Shepherd University, located in Shepherdstown's downtown section, offers a variety of cultural events including live plays, concerts, recitals, different genre of music, and other artistic expressions, which are open to the public. Shepherdstown also offers diversified dining experiences with many fine dining options - American, Thai, French, German and Chinese restaurants. With a short walk across the bridge, you're in the State of Maryland.... Read 19 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 1,529

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.5 out of 5  10 reviews

Current Resident: A mountain community, great location, just outside VA wine country without the high real estate prices. Appalachian trail at the top of the mountain, Shenandoah river at the bottom, mountain bike trails in the State Park. Plenty of fishing, kayaking, bike riding, hiking and a beautiful water fall at the run off of a 160 feet deep lake. And, only a little over an hour from down town DC.... Read 10 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

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• Population 3,441

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.33 out of 5  61 reviews

Current Resident: Overall, Fairmont is a lovely place to reside. I feel safe living where I do. There are always new experiences and memories to be made.... Read 61 reviews

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• Population 18,369

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.27 out of 5  171 reviews

Current Resident: As a student it is a nice town to attend University. However, as a long term resident I would like to see more businesses go into the downtown area. It is so empty and sad to look at right now. The parts of town that have businesses are wonderful though!... Read 171 reviews

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• Population 46,923

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 2.6 out of 5  5 reviews

• grade C+

• grade C minus

• grade B

• Population 1,647

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 5 out of 5  1 review

Current Resident: The community of White Hall, while small, offers plenty of potential for its residents. It seems as if everybody knows everybody and we're all united as a community.... Read 1 review

• grade B+

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• Population 1,006

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.67 out of 5  6 reviews

Former Resident: My parents moved me there when I was in 3rd grade. Now grown and married with kids of my own, I only wished we could raise them there like I had been. It was the place and people that shaped me. Small town vibe with some celebrities around occasionally with the greenbrier and greenbrier classic. Such a down to earth community! When my parents lost their home in the flood of 2015 the comuniity and churches stepped up! It usually doesn’t flood in that area and should not stop one from wanting to move there. Last flood happened over 1,000 years ago. Check out 50 east dining owned by Jerry West if your there or the mason jar! Great places to eat! Gyms health stores bakery and more great restaurants avails just in the next town of Lewisburg.... Read 6 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Population 2,659

• Town in West Virginia

• grade B

• grade C+

• grade B

• Population 2,216

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 4.5 out of 5  2 reviews

Current Resident: Peaceful and manicured WV community close to I-79 making commute smooth. Happy that we have a wonderful retirement here with lovely house and very low taxes.... Read 2 reviews

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• grade B

• grade B

• Population 3,460

Current Resident: I believe Winfield is a great community. Winfield isn't very big, but the town consists of many things. We have the basics: gas stations, fast-food, sit-down food, a police station, neighborhood, and more. Overall, Winfield is a clean and safe place to be.... Read 21 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 3,140

Current Resident: I think that the abandoned houses need to be cleaned up. However, it is a very nice place to live regardless of any circumstances.... Read 1 review

• grade C+

• grade C minus

• grade B

• Population 1,804

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.05 out of 5  19 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Shinnston, West Virginia for all of my life. It is a quiet and quaint town where everyone seems to know everyone, which is acquired taste for people to actually enjoy to the fullest. However, I would not choose to grow up anywhere else.... Read 19 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• grade B

• Population 2,287

• Town in West Virginia

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  Rating 3.48 out of 5  31 reviews

Current Resident: I have grown up in Keyser, WV and appreciate the small town atmosphere. It is laid back and stress free. There is a beautiful coffee shop near the PSC campus where I attend college. It is probably one of my favorite places to visit in Keyser. There are multiple small town restaurants that offer amazing food and relaxed atmospheres. I chose to stay in Keyser to attend college instead of moving away because I am all around happy here. I have many friends who chose to do the same.... Read 31 reviews

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• grade B

• Population 4,916

• Suburb in West Virginia

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  Rating 4.44 out of 5  18 reviews

Current Resident: Barboursville, WV is a small town but it has a variety of business and commerce. There is an abundance of chain stores and restaurants combined with locally owned businesses. We are also in close proximity to a State park that offers hiking, fishing, tennis, disc golf and sports fields. I love Barboursville because it gives you a small town feel with all the conveniences of a mid-sized city. If I could change something about Barboursville, I would like to see it promoted more as a tourist attraction. The town could use the revenue made from tourists to invest in future growth.... Read 18 reviews

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• grade B

• grade B

• Population 4,280