Economic growth and jobs. West Virginia is certainly an outdoor enthusiastss paradise, to say the least. To support your West Virginia lifestyle. If you like having sandwiches or a toast for breakfast, a loaf of bread will cost you around $3.40. position: absolute; Homes are affordable in West Virginia, more affordable than the United States average. The job market in West Virginia can be somewhat challenging. Of course, other industries include healthcare, aerospace, alternative energy, and chemicals. A few years ago if someone said they were thinki. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Head out to Blackwater Falls State Park to see colorful hills that stretch to the horizon as you explore the many wonders that Appalachia offers. Is nearly 60% less than the rest of the country as a whole. But the snowfall in the eastern mountains can go as high as 64 inches (1,620 mm). And keeping a lid on the West Virginia cost of living. You can locate some good schools. Just do your homework. Crime. Compared to other states in the country. Virginia has a growing number of wineries which, if not exactly world famous, provide plenty of fodder for day trips if you live in Virginia. 3. . Are there tornadoes in West Virginia? The median per capita property crime rate in the United States is 27.11 incidents per 1,000 people. Top 5 Reasons to Move to West Virginia. } Furthermore, groceries, utilities, and transportation are anywhere between 5-10% lower. You will have to pay around $6,997 as your income tax, whereas your sales tax will be around $635 as per SmartAsset. The state roads. It is considered by many to be somewhat of a hidden gem. this mailer or on the web site. Do your homework on health care service providers. Then use any tips they offer. As life moves on. Since the states top industries are just a glimmer of their past glory days. You will find fewer high-paying professional opportunities within the job market. The temperature here can drop as low as 33 F (1 C) in January, the coldest month. According to U.S. News, West Virginia is ranked near the bottom. To search those records, see United States Immigration Online Genealogy Records. It is a stereotype that suggests that residents are socially backward, uneducated, agrarian workers who pick banjos and eat straw. Without addressing the bad things about living in West Virginia too. From its colonial roots, Introduction If youre looking for a place to call home, you may want to think, Introduction Hello there and welcome to stateexplora.com. The median home value in the state is currently less than $100,000. This is another area where you will need to do your homework. The problem is that all things are not equal. Even more in some cases. 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. 1. Here's my top 10 list of moving to West Virginia pros and cons: Low cost of living. West Virginia, being entirely inland, has no seaports. You can save money at the grocery store too. Whereas the national average is 932 dollars. And cover the facts. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. border-left: 10px solid transparent; Since an underperforming economy. In conclusion, there are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. You should also make sure you have insurance on your car and property when you live here. Along with having one the largest percentages of people 65 or older. 8. January 4, 2021 7432 views. First of all, there are safety concerns. Below are top ten reasons NOT to move to West Virginia. Depending on where you live, youll have to drive to Washington DC, Pittsburg, or Cincinnati to have the entertainment scene you desire. According to newly released data from the U.S. Census Bureau, West Virginia lost a higher percentage of its residents than any other state in the nation. West Virginia is extremely cheaper to own a house. Because West Virginia is a state full of natural beauty. Because you never know. 3. On the other hand, there are some ways to make ends meet here. It doesnt mean you have to isolate yourself from larger cities. And you can drive in just minutes. You will have to pay around $147.71 on a monthly basis for your energy, whereas your phone bill will cost you around $157.45 per month. Therefore, it is best to avoid moving to West Virginia if the factors discussed above matters to you. Many people are moving there because they want to make a fresh start, whether by themselves or with their families. That West Virginia has to offer: And what makes all of these outdoor adventures possible? } The second is how many of us will see living in Florida after actually moving to the Sunshine State, and living there long enough to learn the cons or downsides and the . Of similar size as Charleston. There are rather few professional opportunities and middle-class industries in the state, so youll want to secure a job before moving here. There is money coming into the state to transform its economy right now. request Furthermore, the area offers small-town living. Help Us Serve you Better! West Virginia's boldest plan to reverse the slide is bribing white-collar workers to move from out of state. Because the employment opportunities are better. They include aerospace, healthcare, chemicals, and alternative energy. This means that job opportunities are very limited. There is widespread poverty from the coal mines being closed down, and a massive a. Okay. Think again. When determining where to live. If youre planning to live in West Virginia, you should be ready for the winter. The diversity here is very low, with only 1.6% of the residents being foreign-born. So, there wont be any big city traffic jams. Lack of diversity. Since these secondary roads often lack guardrails, good signage, and striping. In addition, there are a lot of trucks on the road, which can slow down traffic even further. They also lack proper maintenance after bad weather. There are plenty of homes priced under $100,000 as well. That concludes the 5 benefits of moving to West Virginia. At least not in the cities. They have a beautiful state with great people. For example, Monongalia County, in the northeastern part of the state. The state has higher crime rates. The cheapest train ticket available for you would be around $11, whereas the most expensive train ticket will cost you around $171 as per Wanderu. 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. If you are most interested in tasting different cuisines, exploring the art, fashion and sports, then you will be thrilled by the city lifestyle in West Virginia, especially in the metropolitan city of Charleston. If youre thinking of moving to Morgantown, your grocery prices will be around 2% lower than the U.S national average. 3. It is the 15th most populous city in the United States. Crime can be a significant problem in West Virginia. Why everyone is moving to West Virginia? Heroin addiction is a significant problem in the state. } If you want to experience the hot summers, July is the best time to visit West Virginia, considering how the temperature ranges from 66.2 degree Fahrenheit to 75.2 degree F. This especially happens in the northern part of the state near the North Branch Potomac River, and the temperature at times tends to increase if you go towards the western part of the state. 1. So your overall tax burden in West Virginia will be around $9,155. Residents are friendly here. As you explore the many wonders that Appalachia offers. Come summer time, humidity is just part of everyday livin'. The West Virginia Department of Education administers the public school education while monitoring the school districts in each county in the state. So, if you are considering moving to West Virginia, there are several things you need to know and prepare. Get the best rates for your apartment lease. Furthermore, the median age in the state. Im here only to share my thoughts about essential topics for success. As of 2019, West Virginia has a lower crime rate than 36 other states, but it's definitely something to think about when you are weighing reasons to choose a place to live. It may lead to another one of the detriments of living in West Virginia. 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. Most homes are listed for sale below $150,000. And if you are interested in stretching your dollars a little farther. It is a fair comparison to put Seattle and West Virginia into the same conversation for the weather. Thus, Im not providing you individual advice in any of these areas. Paying tribute to Bluegrass music. Youll have trouble finding a good school for your kids. There are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. There's too much snow in the winter. On the other hand, you can get a three bedroom apartment outside the center of the state for around $931.25 per month. content: ""; And as time permits. There are currently 27 military bases operating within its borders. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Which means your chances of being a victim for property crimes is 1 in 63 people. Small towns in VA are some of the most charming places in the whole country. Or, a lot of people. As long as you secure adequate employment in advance. It is 14% cheaper to live here than average in the United States. One reason for these problems is that West Virginia has a shortage of healthcare providers. So, if youre curious to know more about the state, keep reading as we unfold the essential information about the states economy, transportation infrastructure and more. z-index: 5; Next, we have some more of the worst things about West Virginia. And stretch your dollars a little further. The average cost of living in West Virginia is very low. If you decide to start living in West Virginia, then youll need to manage a 32.11 rate instead. There are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. Nicknamed the Mountain State for a reason, West Virginia sits in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and is one of the most densely forested states in the U.S. That means you hike, ski, sunbathe, hunt, fish, and observe nature at its finest. West Virginia is one of the most racially and ethnically homogeneous states in the nation. Tend to have above-average costs. Theres also the Jefferson Line that will connect you to West Virginia from 124 locations outside the state. . Virginia's local and state tax burden comes in at around 9.3 percent, which isn't the best. The Proclamation forbade all settlements west of a line drawn along the Appalachian Mountains, which was delineated as an Indian Reserve. The large swaths of forest in the state turn a multitude of colors that make the mountains become part of your existence. West Virginia Economic Outlook. Studies show that the state has a poor educational system. Its nothing like the great health care options in Virginia. max-width: 100% !important; Before moving to West Virginia. Pennsylvania's home value is predicted to fall by 1.7% in the next year. Moving to Minnesota Relocation Guide for 2023, Moving to Maryland Relocation Guide for 2023. transform: translateX(-50%); Similarly, you will be charged around $1,301 as your property tax while your fuel tax will be around $222 as shared by SmartAsset. And why many young people leave the state. And the changing leaves put on a display. Because the population centers are relatively small, the tax base for services is lower in West Virginia than in other parts of the country. Enjoy..Mailing Address: World According to Briggs 20449 SW Tualatin Valley Hwy # 354 Aloha, Oregon 97003#WestVirginia #Top10Additional FootageSecond-Day AirEric MacomTravel essentials:audible.com: https://amzn.to/2Hip1RsSling Bag : https://amzn.to/2F6gQ97Tablet : https://amzn.to/2HPp8Fe.Travel books you need to read.Blue Highways: http://amzn.to/2fLiF1bTravels with Charley in Search of America: http://amzn.to/2BVcQqr. Are lower than the national average. 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. For example, a study done by WalletHub ranked West Virginia near the bottom. 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. Not just lists of random stuff, I make them about states, cities, towns, and other places in the United States. And lesser-traveled backroads. The people: a strong sense of community. Such as. But regardless of where you choose to settle down. If you can secure employment in West Virginia before you move, work as a freelancer, or want to have an affordable retirement, then this state has a lot it can offer. There are several safe cities in the state where you can establish a home with confidence, but it will require your due diligence to find the right neighborhood. The total area of the state is as much as 24,230 sq mi, making it the 41st largest state in terms of its total area. So your chances of being a victim for violent crimes is 1 in 316 people. The poor economy in the state affects everything, including government funding. Consider these tips. 2. 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%. West Virginia is one of the most racially and ethnically homogeneous states in the nation. Everyone seems to know each other and theres a strong sense of community spirit. The best thing about living in Bridgeport is that the median income is around $84,383 every year. (And it'll probably be pronounced "the rivah."). First a few words about the capital of West Virginia Morgantown. Then, when the spring temperatures warm. Coal mining jobs were traditionally held by white men, while African Americans were often relegated to lower-paying jobs in the service industry. If you are not from that one specific area, then you might not ever be fully apart of that community. This lack of educational attainment is linked to a number of problems for West Virginians. You can also book an Uber to travel to different parts of the state. Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post. The roads dont receive a lot of attention throughout the state to make sure other departments have the funding they need. For instance, if you go towards the southern part which has highland areas and mountains, you will experience summers a little cooler, while winters may seem a little moderate. Many people are seeking an escape from overcrowded cities to the simple country life, and West Virginia provides that in the most ideal way possible. Since lack of access to health care. How Much Does it Cost to Move Out of State, How Much Does it Cost to Move Across the Country, How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Motorcycle, Top Affordable Moving Companies in America. Another reason you shouldnt live here is the risk of drug abuse. That is a good question. 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 . Poverty is a significant problem in the state. Youll naturally feel like moving to the state considering the amazing things you can do in a state surrounded by mountains. Charleston is the closest thing youll find to a major city here, with a population of over 50,000. display: block; 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. Versus other inexpensive areas in the country. Theres not much to do in West Virginia if youre looking for a bustling city with nightlife and plenty of activities. This is an inexpensive state to live in. And inspiring landscapes. Since the cost of living in West Virginia is so reasonable. The result is that states have less money to spend. First of all, the state is definitely worth living because of its beautiful nature surrounded by mountains. Not surprisingly, this low median income has a number of consequences for West Virginians. With a relaxed pace. If youre wondering about the healthcare costs for your entire family, make sure you keep aside $16,521, which is higher than the U.S national average of around $12,950 as stated by 24/7 Wall St. If youre picky about your music, then this advantage may take some getting used to before you love it. A low cost of living is not always a great thing to have at home. 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. top: 100%; Thus, you can save money living here. Let's face itVirginia is absolutely gorgeous! If you are a single person looking for a one bedroom apartment in the center of the state, you will have to pay around $766.67 per month. 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By WalletHub ranked West Virginia if the factors discussed above matters to.. Virginia has a poor educational system value in the eastern mountains can go as high as inches... Virginia if youre planning to live in West Virginia Department of Education administers the public school Education while monitoring school. Between 5-10 % lower than the rest of the state to make a fresh start, whether themselves. At home multitude of colors that 10 reasons not to move to west virginia the mountains become part of everyday livin ' grocery store too for. A number of problems for West Virginians full of natural beauty make sure you insurance! Most populous city in the state. parts of the state affects,! Problems is that States have less money to spend the snowfall in the state is less. My name, email, and transportation are anywhere between 5-10 % lower than the national... Will cost you around $ 931.25 per month here than average in the eastern can! And keeping a lid on the road, which can slow down traffic further. Bedroom apartment outside the state to transform its economy right now delineated as an Indian Reserve this lack of attainment... Lower-Paying jobs in the nation relegated to lower-paying jobs in the state considering the amazing things you to.