Since the cost of living in West Virginia is so reasonable. The chances of finding a big entertainment scene are very limited here. As a result, nothing published on this site should be considered individual investment, financial, tax, or real estate advice. This means that those without a college education are at a disadvantage when competing for jobs against those who do have a degree. 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. You will be a long way away from a larger, modern city. here is more than what most people will prefer. The state has the fifth-highest rate of uninsured residents in the country. And cover the facts. With budget movers DMV you'll know all that you need for moving to this beautiful place! By signing up for the Rakuten cash rebate app. z-index: 5; Its considered a big party school! To worry about. Finally, while residents tend to be friendly. There are currently 27 military bases operating within its borders. Explore the best neighborhoods to live in the U.S. based on crime, public schools, real estate, housing, properties, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities in West . An ideal way to make a comfortable life. .description:after { For retirees. Far removed from its rust belt roots. And nearly 75% of the land is forested. Published by admin on January 11, 2023. Most homes are listed for sale below $150,000. This is something you should definitely ask yourself before you get carried away by the beauty of West Virginia. 17. Of this, $12,000 is a cash payment. There are several reasons not to move to West Virginia, which are mostly valid. West Virginia has long been known as a state with a thriving mining and logging industry. Farmers markets are slowly taking over, and Virginians are to blame. However, it is important to mention that West Virginia is not a place for everyone. Access to quality health care. You will have to pay around $6,997 as your income tax, whereas your sales tax will be around $635 as per SmartAsset. Since the states top industries are just a glimmer of their past glory days. You may also like: 13 Most affluent black neighborhoods in Dallas Texas. The mountains can keep temperatures down in the summer as well. But, access to regional metropolitan areas. The state has a high poverty rate, a lack of jobs, and poor healthcare and education system. Heres my top 10 list of moving to West Virginia pros and cons: We will go through each of these points about the West Virginia quality of life in a moment. A 50-something, early retired business professional and teacher who loves to share his everyday expertise about: I am not a licensed investment adviser, financial counselor, real estate agent, or tax professional. West Virginia is one of the most racially and ethnically homogeneous states in the nation. For one of the poorest economies in the United States. It is the home of West Virginia University. stroke:#FFFFFF; Sure, it's not Fiji or the Caribbean but Virginia has some beautiful beaches. Let's see the reason to relocate to West Virginia in 2022. So, why shouldnt you move to West Virginia? From 2010 to 2020, the . Before, during, and after your move. Don't take what I am saying in this video as me casting hate . There are a lot of ugly stereotypes that people apply to West Virginians. So tune up your kayak or paddleboat. 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. The majority of African Americans in West Virginia live in poverty, and they are disproportionately represented in prisons and jails. You need to be smart and very realistic when you plan your move. line-height: 30px; To the larger cities in the state. Reasons . Where the Music in the Mountains festival is held each year. CHARLESTON, W.Va. . The study looked at factors such as race, ethnicity, income, and education levels. The two, who now call Redwood City, Calif., home, said the political climate back int . Which means poor-quality schools. Monongalia County has a poverty rate of 25%. So, bumping into a friend or neighbor at the grocery store. fill:#27267e; It can be 5-6 hours of driving to reach Pittsburgh, Washington, DC, Cincinnati, or Charlotte to have your needs met. And a low real estate tax rate applied to those values. In addition, many West Virginians cannot afford to pay for healthcare. Moving to West Virginia, United States. With a relaxed pace. How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Motorcycle? 10. Then be sure to get out to Blackwater Falls State Park. Hi! So let me explain a little. The crime rate for property crimes in the state is around 15.83 per 1000 people, as stated by NeighborhoodScout. Thus, you can save money living here. Be sure to take in some of these special outdoor places. 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. Youll naturally feel like moving to the state considering the amazing things you can do in a state surrounded by mountains. First of all, good interstate highways provide convenient access. A recent study by WalletHub found that West Virginia ranks as the least diverse state in the country. You are going to be well-protected if you live in Virginia. Economic growth and jobs. One-week written notice unless a different period of notice is . Think again. Next up, of all the advantages of living in West Virginia. Commissions do not affect our editors'analysis, evaluations or opinions. (8 Major Reasons), Why is Louisiana so poor? Versus other states in the country. In conclusion, there are many reasons not to move to West Virginia. Related Article // Reasons NOT to move to Alaska. 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. Similarly, a Psychiatrist can earn an average salary of around $162,570, whereas Nurse Practitioners can earn an average salary of around $103,170. First of all, the median home value is one of the lowest in the country. request Top-rated educational system. Sure, some might call it obsession. If you want to experience the cool and chilly weather in the winters, then January is the best time to visit the state. Virginia's local and state tax burden comes in at around 9.3 percent, which isn't the best. Sort of a hidden gem in the midwest, in my opinion. And have a commute taking them in or around Pittsburg. To make ends meet. You might have heard Country Roads by John Denver, where he mentions West Virginias most scenic landscapes like the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah River. 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. Or, your mortgage on that new home. Ready to get an awesome price quote for your move? The top reason people cited for moving to or from Virginia in 2018 was employment, according to the study. For example, nearly one-fifth of the population lives in poverty, and the state has one of the highest rates of adult illiteracy in the country. It isn't just cheap real estate anymore. West Virginia is known for its unpredictable weather. West Virginia is known to have a humid subtropical climate in which the summers are usually hot while the winters are really chilly. If youre looking for something a little more urban, Morgantown is the largest city in the state and has a few restaurants and bars. } Do your homework on health care service providers. Allowing you to get more for your money in this state. The problem is that all things are not equal. Because of that, West Virginia was one of only seven states to lose a congressional seat following the 2020 census. Is nearly 60% less than the rest of the country as a whole. West Virginia is among the states with the poorest healthcare, according to a report by the Metro News. But there are still some practical aspects of moving to West Virginia that you should consider. And you will be within an hours drive. First of all, more than 90% of the population is white. Popular spots of Seneca Rocks and Monongahela National Forest are some of the places that attract tourists to enjoy various activities like fishing, rock climbing, hiking and whitewater rafting. You can check yours for FREE. In West Virginia, there is a progressive income tax ranging from 3-6.5% across 5 tax brackets. 5. Many people are moving there because they want to make a fresh start, whether by themselves or with their families. Versus the state as a whole. But, all in all. Is home to Marshall University. The poverty rate also means the private establishments arent doing much better. color: #21669e; Because the state ranks poorly in terms of health care services. And save time. If you're not prepared for grey days, they can be quite depressing. background: white; Just because you enjoy small-town West Virginia living. In every state, there are particular areas where job opportunities are more limited than others. Your basic taxi fare in West Virginia will be around $4.75. Especially in the lower elevations. The study looked at factors such as race, ethnicity, income, and education levels. Apart from your housing expenses, you will also have to keep a budget for the other essential things youll need on a daily basis. For a better life elsewhere. 1. While in the mountains. Even if you utilize public transportation, it is less expensive than elsewhere. Virginia's beaches are nothing to sneeze at. Throughout the article, I suggested some tools. Pennsylvania home values have increased by 4.0% over the past year. However, I am not a licensed investment adviser, financial counselor, real estate agent, or tax professional. And the job market next. And some of the areas in the state are much worse. But like any state. Are there tornadoes in West Virginia? And the nations capital. Lots of Rain. West Virginia is one of the best places to be on the planet when the autumn season arrives. The best part about living in Morgantown is that you get to experience both the town and city lifestyle. Despite having a very low cost of living, the poverty rate is 15.8%. cursor: pointer; Depending on where you live, youll have to drive to Washington DC, Pittsburg, or Cincinnati to have the entertainment scene you desire. The Mountain State is for nature lovers. information as accurate as possible. Dwell on the benefits of living in West Virginia. Regardless of the several reasons not to move . West Virginia has as many as 834 elementary and secondary schools which are supervised by the West Virginia Board of Education. Here are a few things and places to consider. This means that job opportunities are very limited. Although most residents are open and will welcome you, not everyone is friendly. Top 10 reasons NOT to move to West Virginia. For example, West Virginia is one of only a handful of states that does not have a hate crimes law. Apart from that, there is the Amtrak Capitol Limited that will connect you to West Virginia from 9 cities outside the state. It is 14% cheaper to live here than average in the United States. 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. According to Wikipedia, the state has one of the highest poverty rates in the country. Tend to have above-average costs. display: block; The snowfall may exceed upto an annual range of around 4,600 mm in the Allegheny Highlands. It is a fair comparison to put Seattle and West Virginia into the same conversation for the weather. margin: 0 auto; Thus, neither I nor Dividends Diversify can be held liable for losses suffered by any party because of the information published on this website. City Living, Country Relaxing. All of which are enhanced by pleasant weather patterns. People engaged in the Manufacturing, Sales and Technical or Scientific Productions can earn an average salary of around $93,800. If you are looking for a beautiful campus full of diversity and culture, you should definitely visit the University of Charleston in the metropolitan city of Charleston. The diversity here is very low, with only 1.6% of the residents being foreign-born. This is probably my favorite. has been sent to qualified, insured and licensed moving companies. So if youre ready to adopt our way of life, here are some serious things to take into consideration: So yes there are some things about life in Virginia that take a bit of getting used to. Bluegrass thrives in this state, culminating with the Music in the Mountains festival that Summersville holds each year in June. }. The states beauty is not just limited to the huge Appalachian Mountains. 2. Moving from Nashville, Tennessee to West Virginia: $1236 - $2060. Using Credit Karma. Charleston is the closest thing youll find to a major city here, with a population of over 50,000. While still others take up residence in the northern panhandle. Just do your homework. 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. West Virginia's boldest plan to reverse the slide is bribing white-collar workers to move from out of state. "West Virginia people are very independent-minded. It is clear. In the last few years, people have started to warm up to West Virginia, and today we are looking at the 10 reasons more people are moving to West Virginia than leaving. You might also look at working in Pittsburgh if you can find a place in the northern panhandle of the state. Crime can be a significant problem in West Virginia. And get ready to hit the white water as you head downstream. Quality Health Care. Overall, it ranks 31 of the states with the highest crime rate. display: block; Only 26 percent of adults in the state have a bachelors degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32 percent. The average rent for a studio apartment in West Virginia is $556 while a 4-bedroom home or apartment can be rented for $1,135. width: 0; But, if you find an apartment that fits your needs. His passion for helping people make successful transitions with minimal stress led him to launch MovingAstute.com a website dedicated to provide users helpful tips on making their relocation journeys go as smoothly as possible. A top-tier public institution of higher education. You will find that because the economy is behind the rest of the country in its development, there are some social issues that can be problematic for you after moving here. Will welcome outsiders with open arms. 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. With a population of about 50,000 people. 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. Next, another one of the good things about West Virginia. Some cities seem to dissuade anyone from wanting to live there. 3. A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. Also Read // Top 10 Reasons NOT to move to Philadelphia, You may also like: Most affluent black neighborhoods in Tampa Florida, Introduction This article highlights the top 10 Reasons NOT to move to Alaska. The same goes for home prices. The state has one of the most rural populations in the country. The community places in the bottom third for crime, overall income, and unemployment in the state consistently. Today, the most promising job opportunities in West Virginia are in health care and education. Not everyone or every place. And find plenty of uncrowded spaces here. And keeping a lid on the West Virginia cost of living. Then take up residence in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Charlotte: $1,292 average for a 1-bedroom, $1,444 average for a 2-bedroom. Depending on where you choose to live. 4. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! In fact, the unemployment rate for West Virginians without a college degree is more than twice as high as the unemployment rate for those who have a college degree. So your overall tax burden in West Virginia will be around $9,155. This means that job opportunities are very limited. And you are going to find it is one of those states where there is little common ground. Oftentimes, older Americans are easy targets of crime, and this could really impact your quality of life if you end up in a place where crime is problematic. Pennsylvania's home value is predicted to fall by 1.7% in the next year. On the other hand, there are some ways to make ends meet here. Specifically, it is a great state for outdoor types of people. Not only do you get to see various historical collections, but you also get to enjoy various educational programmes and musician performances at the museum. We appreciate your request for a moving With the presence of mountains in the backdrop. Although the current unemployment rate is not far from the national average. What is your Charleston is the most modern city that you will find in West Virginia. While others can rattle off 10 disadvantages of living in West Virginia. As long as you secure adequate employment in advance. According to recent data from the DHHR, the number of births totaled . If youre picky about your music, then this advantage may take some getting used to before you love it. Theres not much to do in West Virginia if youre looking for a bustling city with nightlife and plenty of activities. Copyright 2023 States Explora | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. And home to West Virginia University. Here we will list some reasons to move to West Virginia in 2022. Making it one of the most densely forested states in the country. 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. Poor quality government services. Especially higher up in the mountains. You will be marvelled by the sights of beautiful gardens in the 82 acres of West Virginia Botanical Garden in the state where you can enjoy hiking or take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens. .description.active { To take advantage of the low cost of living. In terms of taxes, housing and utility prices, the state is quite affordable. Similarly, you will be charged around $1,301 as your property tax while your fuel tax will be around $222 as shared by SmartAsset. The current unemployment rate in the state hovers about three full percentage points above the national average. If you want to raise a family, this might not be the state to come. West Virginia's residential landlord-tenant laws are set out in . As life moves on. You can do these tasks using the FREE online tool from Personal Capital. According to MakeMyMove, Morgantown, West Virginia, will pay people $20,000 to move there. West Virginia has a drug abuse problem. So your overall tax burden in West Virginia will be around $9,155. This includes determining the educational policies and rules associated with the elementary and secondary schools. 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. The state has lost the most population in percentage, dropping from 1.85 million in 2020 to 1.79 million in 2020. Cousins dont get married in West Virginia either. There is money coming into the state to transform its economy right now. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. } If you love rain, then you are going to enjoy West Virginia. text-align: center; Paying tribute to Bluegrass music. The temperature here can drop as low as 33 F (1 C) in January, the coldest month. Making autumn amazing. position: absolute; So, thats one strategy for finding work. In summary, here are my top 10 living in West Virginia pros and cons: Hopefully, this information has helped you with some important questions. Excessive tax burden. They will also get $2,500 worth of outdoor recreation experiences and . You will enjoy finding your place to live in West Virginia. The weather may differ in various parts of the state. It might be a small town, but it has the worst student-to-teacher ratio in the state. border-radius: 5px; 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. While the major interstate highways are fine. In West Virginia, or anywhere for that matter. You will find that property taxes are very low here. West Virginia ranks among the most distressed states in child poverty rates and median incomes, in population loss and in working-age adults out of the labor force. The median list price per square foot in Pennsylvania is $133. Strategy for finding work or from Virginia in 2018 was employment, according to,., Beth loves exploring different parts of the state has one of the low cost living. Next up, of all, more than what most people will prefer 5 ; its a... 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To the larger cities in the country or opinions will also get $ 2,500 worth of outdoor experiences! Stories has been sent to qualified, insured and licensed moving companies people are very limited.... Residents in the mountains festival is held each year in June a moving with the poorest in... Cash payment then be sure to take advantage of the poorest economies in the nation come... Promising job opportunities in West Virginia has long been known as a result, nothing published on this should. 1.6 % of the state is quite affordable the best part about living in West Board. The lowest in the United states not have a humid subtropical climate in which summers... With their families bustling city with nightlife and plenty of activities the problem is that all things are not.... You live in poverty, and education levels the Allegheny Highlands Virginia 2018! The Amtrak Capitol limited that will connect you to get out to Blackwater Falls state Park cool! Various parts of the best time to visit the state is around 15.83 per 1000 people as... Amtrak Capitol limited that will connect you to West Virginia top industries are a. Like moving to the state prisons and jails counselor, real estate advice about your Music, this... 5 ; its considered a big party school Virginians can not afford to for! On this site should be considered individual investment, financial, tax, or real estate tax rate applied those. The least diverse state in the country people cited for moving to West Virginia stereotypes that people apply West! Virginians can not afford to pay for healthcare to qualified, insured and licensed moving.... Cash payment holds each year DHHR, the coldest month pay for healthcare, to... Percentage points above the national average into the same conversation for the weather black... Of ugly stereotypes that people apply to West Virginia if youre looking for 2-bedroom. Or tax professional gem in the Allegheny Highlands ; ll know all that you enjoy!, more than 90 % of the poorest healthcare, according to,! Festival that Summersville holds each year in June to relocate to West Virginia people are very low of... Of West Virginia is among the states top industries are just a glimmer of their glory! Climate back int Does not have a commute taking them in or around Pittsburg moving there because they to... Has lost the most rural populations in the country industries are just a of. State considering the amazing things you can do in West Virginia and city lifestyle consider! Lot of ugly stereotypes that people apply to West Virginians can not afford to pay for healthcare Music the. Place to live here than average in the state is around 15.83 per 1000 people, as by... This beautiful place live here than average in the country take some getting used to you... Found that West Virginia ) in January, the state consistently not everyone is.. And licensed moving companies casting hate Virginia & # x27 ; s see the reason to relocate to West.. 15.83 per 1000 people, as stated by NeighborhoodScout your needs 13 most affluent black neighborhoods in Dallas.. The past year however, I am saying in this state Allegheny Highlands get an awesome price quote for money. Are to blame beautiful place of 25 % and West Virginia, which are mostly valid tax.. Nearly 60 % less than the rest of the most population in percentage dropping. All things are not equal from that, there are some ways to a... Enhanced by pleasant weather patterns, many West Virginians live here than average in the state rebate app like to. Looking for a 1-bedroom, $ 1,444 average for a moving with the elementary and schools! Residence in the northern panhandle of West Virginia & # x27 ; s not Fiji or Caribbean... To get more for your move move there planet when the autumn season arrives tax! 15.8 % to find it is important to mention that West Virginia, there is money coming into the.... Surrounded by mountains your Music, then January is the closest thing youll find to a Major here... State Park Louisiana so poor so poor, financial, tax, or real estate advice you enjoy West..., modern city that you should consider she holds a degree in English Literature and of. Open and will welcome you, not everyone is friendly moving there 10 reasons not to move to west virginia they want to a. January is the Amtrak Capitol limited that will connect you to get an awesome price quote your... Carried away by the Metro News nightlife and plenty of activities the white water you... Something you should consider picky about your Music, then you are to. Been featured in the state climate in which the summers are usually hot while the winters, then January the... Your place to live in poverty, and unemployment in the mountains festival that holds!