Who Loves West Virginia's Mountain Lifestyle?
Is West Virginia right for me? If you're an outdoor adventure junkie, avid hiker, fan of small town charm, or homesteader, you're likely to connect with the state's long history of unplugging and connecting with the natural world. What's more, thousands of college freshman choose Morgantown's West Virginia University to call home every year. On the other hand, if you're used to hanging ten in the waves, prefer a sunny forecast every day, or live for the excitement of a corporate life, you'll probably find West Virginia focal points like Summersville Lake and Pricketts Fort State Park fun, but not quite your speed.
Hannah, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Hannah is a born and raised West Virginian who briefly tested life across state lines before realizing the pull of the hills is undefeated. She has lived in both northern and south central West Virginia, moved more times than she can count during college, and knows Charleston well enough to give directions using landmarks instead of street names. She writes fiction, spins yarn into sweaters, drinks Charleston coffee like its a personality trait, and somehow keeps four pets fed. Editing West Virginia guides comes naturally when you know the people shine... even when the sun does not.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
Who Fits West Virginia Best?
Ranked by how well each personality tends to thrive here, from can't-miss matches to tougher fits.
Adventure Junkie
Great FitNew River Gorge Bridge Day, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, hiking, skiing, camping
College Student
Great FitWVU gamedays and a growing local arts/music scene in Morgantown, Coopers Rock escapes, PRT rides, regular art walks and festivals for Marshall University campus-goers to attend
Homesteader
Great FitMonroe County hollers, WVU Extension workshops, the annual WV Strawberry Festival
DIYer
Great FitTamarack inspiration, Huntington Habitat ReStore treasures
Garden Club Lifetime Member
Great FitOglebay gardens, WV Botanic Garden, Capitol Market
Farmer's Market Regular
Great FitCharleston's Capitol Market produce and indoor Purple Onion market, Morgantown Farmers Market Saturdays, Lewisburg Farmers Market
Dog Momma
Great FitRails to Trails walking paths, Kanawha State Forest trails, pup-friendly patios
Craft Beer Fan
Great FitFayetteville's Bridge Brew Works, Big Timber brewing Co. in Elkins, The Brew Pub in Morgantown
Foodie
Good FitDelicious beers and burritos at Charleston's Black Sheep or Bridge Road Bistro nights; fine dining at Lewisburg's The French Goat; great bites at Huntington's Backyard Pizza and Raw Bar
Ready to See If West Virginia Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full West Virginia guide for the bigger picture.