Best Small Towns for Retirement in West Virginia

West Virginia, affectionately known as the Mountain State, is home to vast hills, valleys, and mountains, most namely, the Appalachians. Although West Virginia is a prime destination for tourists looking to enjoy the great outdoors hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting, the state has plenty of smaller towns perfect for retirement living. Here’s a list of my favorite small towns for retirement in West Virginia!

Morgantown, WV

Morgantown is located in the north-central part of the state and is home to West Virginia University along the banks of the Monongahela River. The presence of the college plays a big role in Morgantown. The school’s college football team is a perennial powerhouse and attracts college football fans from around the state.

Wheeling, WV

Wheeling served as the capital city two times during the early years of the state. Wheeling actually burnt to the ground in the 1800s! However, it built back stronger and even more beautiful. The former capital city has an active theater and music industry that attracts music and theater buffs from around the state. The Capitol Theater offers several productions year-round. The city is also home to Wheeling Island, which offers entertainment options such as gaming and dining.

Fairmont, WV

Fairmont is located in north-central West Virginia on the banks of the Monongahela River. Fairmont is home to Fairmont State University which enrolls about 8,000 students. Known as “The Friendly City” as well as the Gymnastics Capital of West Virginia, this town boasts a population of 19,000. In keeping with its gymnastics reputation, one of the town’s natives is American Gymnastics legend and gold medal winner Mary Lou Retton.

Vienna, WV

Vienna is a quaint small town located along the Ohio River. Vienna features Gran Central Mall which is home to several shops and dining options. As of 2010, the population is just under 11,000. Vienna offers small-town friendliness, and casual dining, and has several award-winning schools including Jackson Middle School.

Fayetteville, WV

A major travel publication voted Fayetteville one of the “Coolest Small Towns in The United States” back in 2006. One of the town’s notable features is its Romanesque architecture, which can be seen in various buildings, such as the Fayetteville Courthouse and Altamont Hotel. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts to partake in white water rafting, fishing, biking, and rock climbing.

St. Albans, WV

St. Albans is located in the western portion of the state on the Kanawha and Coal Rivers. With a population of approximately 10,000 people, St. Albans has a genuine small-town feel. Named after St. Alban, who is thought to be one of the very first British Christian martyrs, this town boasts a rich and storied history. St. Albans offers small shops, antique shops, and casual dining options.

Elkins, WV

Elkins’ population may be less than 8,000 people but it is a very active community that enjoys celebrating. One of the notable events taking place in Elkins every year is the Augusta Heritage Festival which offers guests several different genres of live music and dance. The festival in the small town attracts musicians from around the globe. The festival lasts an astounding five weeks and is held on the campus of Davis and Elkins College as well as in downtown Elkins. The town is also home to the Elkins Live Fantasy Festival. This festival is a role-playing medieval event that lasts three days.