Living in West Virginia

West Virginia is a small state in terms of population with about 1.8 million residents. The population here is about 93% white, 4% black, 1% Hispanic or Latino, and 1% Asian. The median household income in West Virginia is a bit on the low side at about $38,000, but the costs of living here are also very low. The median value of a home in West Virginia is just $72,800. That's about $45,000 below the national median. In other words, West Virginia is a great place to afford a new home for the first time.

Working in West Virginia

West Virginia is a state with broad opportunities for work and play. In major cities like Charleston, the state capital and the largest city in the state, you can work for major companies in industries like law, finance, insurance, communications, manufacturing, retail, and more. Coal is a major resource of the state. The state's mountains offer great opportunities for tourism, making work in fields like hotels and recreation good options in West Virginia as well. The mountains also attract a number of scientific researchers, so you can certainly make a career in science if you come to West Virginia.

Things to Do in West Virginia

The natural beauty of West Virginia is unparalleled. The state has twelve state parks and forests and three national parks. The mountains that run through the state are full of caves and caverns that are just waiting to be explored by daring adventurers. Recreational caving activities are enjoyed throughout the state, as are more traditional outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, cycling, fishing, and rock climbing.

If you are a resident of West Virginia interested in earning a college diploma, find a college degree or certificate from an accredited West Virginia college or university near you.