Known playfully as the southernmost northern state and the northernmost southern state, West Virginia is located in the Appalachian region and is the 12th-least populated state.
Nicknamed the Mountain State, the very first Mother’s Day was observed in Grafton on May 10, 1908! West Virginia is inarguably a beautiful place to live.
Even after scouring the internet for professional long-distance movers to facilitate your move to West Virginia, you are still feeling apprehensive about moving.
You are wondering if West Virginia is really the best place for you to raise a family, start your career, or enjoy a quiet life after retirement.
If you are wondering what to expect from a full-service Colorado moving company and if West Virginia is right for you, here is some invaluable information about both:
Consider These Factors Before Calling West Virginia Home
Getting down to the nitty-gritty and the specifics about your new potential home state is a great place to start and the perfect way to alleviate any apprehensions you have about moving.
Before you plan your move to West Virginia, here are some factors you should consider before joining the West Virginian community:
Crime Rates
Understanding how crime rates will impact your personal safety in an unknown area can be tricky. Hence, a great option is to compare the rates of property and violent crimes in your current home state of Colorado.
In Colorado, you have a one in 32 of being the victim of a property crime and a one in 203 chance of being the victim of a violent crime.
Rates of Violent Crimes and Property Crimes
West Virginia is known for its overall safety, especially when compared to other states, in both property crimes and violent crimes. The chance of being the unfortunate victim of a violent crime in the state is one in 360.
The possibility of being the victim of a property crime is one in 81. If you value safety and are ready to call West Virginia home, here are some helpful tips for hiring professional relocation services!
What are the safest cities in West Virginia?
As with every other state, there are, of course, towns that are safer than others. Residents of these towns are blessed with living in some of the safest cities in the state:
- Weirton
- Oak Hill
- Buckhannon
- Charles Towns
- Bridgeport
Cost of Living
The scenic beauty of West Virginia is unmatched, but can you afford to call West Virginia home? The overall cost of living in West Virginia is roughly 20% less than the national average. How does this compare to Colorado?
The cost of living in Colorado is 20.5% higher than in the rest of the country.
The main reasons why the living costs are so much lower in West Virginia than in Colorado and the rest of the country is because of the state’s lower housing costs, costs of utilities, and groceries.
The only category where West Virginia is higher than the rest of the country is the cost of healthcare.
How Much Does a Family of Four Need to Earn to Live Comfortably in West Virginia?
To live comfortably in West Virginia, a family of four with at least one adult working must earn at least $76,905/year.
This is compared to Colorado, where the living wage for a family of four is $95,563/year. To put this into perspective, the living wage in the most expensive state, Hawaii, is over $180,000/year!
How strong is West Virginia’s Job market?
Most people would never move to a new state without first securing a job. How strong is the job market in West Virginia? The unemployment rate in West Virginia is 3.3%, which is on par with the national average.
However, the job market has been stagnant for several years, and the state would need to add around 100,000 new jobs to remain on par with job growth in the rest of the country.
Median Home Value
The median value of a home in West Virginia is roughly $154,371, which has risen around 3% over the last few years. This is compared to the median home value in Colorado, which is $526,779, and just like West Virginia, this number is on the rise. Are the lower housing costs in West Virginia enticing – Check out these four tips to get started on your moving project.
What cities have the cheapest rent?
The median price for an apartment in West Virginia is $1,000/month. This is compared to Colorado, where the median price is $2,100/month.
As with any other state, certain areas are cheaper than others. If you want to save the most money possible with low-cost housing, consider these four cities:
- Parkersburg
- Clarksburg
- South Charleston
- St. Albans
West Virginia: A Great State for Outdoor Adventures
If you thought Colorado was the premier outdoor lover’s paradise, you’ve never visited West Virginia. From the New River Gorge in the southern region to the hiking, biking trails, golf, horseback riding, and fishing in the Northern panhandle, there are fantastic ways to enjoy the sites in every corner of the state.
Do you want to know where to get started with packing services from Denver’s premier moving company? Here are just a handful of the fantastic ways to enjoy the beautiful sights, sounds, and outdoor adventures West Virginia has to offer:
Camping, Mountain Biking, and Hiking at Blackwater Falls State Park
Located in the wonderful Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls State Park gets its name from the Blackwater Falls, a beautiful 57-foot waterfall that is the centerpiece of this glorious park.
The park features over 20 miles of groomed hiking trails, and if you are taking in the sights during winter, there is a beautiful lodge where you can sip on hot chocolate while you watch the snowfall. Highlights of the park and some great places to snap a lovely family photo include:
- Lindy Point
- Ekalaka Falls
- Pendleton Point Overlook
Swimming and Boating Below the New River Gorge Bridge
The New River Gorge Bridge spans the length of the New River Gorge, and as one of the highest bridges in the United States, it is visited by over one million tourists each year.
The centerpiece of the New River Gorge National Park, the area has more than just natural beauty.
In addition to the several varieties of flora and fauna, including white-tail deer, black bears, gray foxes, rabbits, skunks, and 20 different species of snakes, you can enjoy the historical aspects of the gorge.
There is a 19th-century mining town in the gorge, complete with intact buildings, homes, and churches.
Check Out West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle
The Eastern Panhandle is arguably the most beautiful portion of West Virginia.
In addition to the several outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting down the Blackwater River and into the Blackwater Canyon, the area is steeped in history.
Originally part of the Virginia colony, West Virginia separated itself from Virginia during the Civil War.
Visit Harpers Ferry
Located at the junction of the exquisite Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a small town that played a huge role in American history.
In October 1859, abolitionist John Brown raided a federal arsenal in the hopes of starting a slave revolt. Unfortunately, his raid was unsuccessful, and he was later executed.
In addition to taking a historical tour of the city, check out Harpers Ferry National Historic Park.
Explore Berkley Springs State Park
The ultimate in West Virginia experiences, no visit to the state’s eastern portion would be complete without a visit to Berkley Springs State Park.
Sure, the park offers all the typical experiences you would expect in any other state park, from hiking and biking to swimming, kayaking, and rafting, but in Berkley Springs State Park, there is a twist: the hot springs.
Enjoyed by tourists and residents alike since the colonial period, the hot springs flow at a consistent temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit.
When you are done enjoying the hot springs, visit the Roman-style bathhouse for a massage or facial.
Relaxing after moving cross-country is necessary, so to ensure your relocation is less stressful, check out these top ways to travel during an interstate move.
West Virginia: The Complete Guide to Nice People and Pepperoni Rolls!
Known for its iconic dishes and fantastic community, living in West Virginia means enjoying the adventurous spirit of its friendly people and unforgettable tastes of some of the well-known dishes that put the Mountain State on the map. Here are some dishes that put West Virginia on the map:
- Ramps: A wild onion related to leeks and spring onions, ramps are a seasonal treat best enjoyed in your Italian dishes, including a piping hot pepperoni pizza!
- Cornbread and beans: Although the weather in West Virginia is seasonable all year round, there is no better dish to enjoy on a chilly day than homemade cornbread and your favorite type of beans.
- Pepperoni rolls: Another West Virginia staple, these simple, compact rolls were initially enjoyed by coal miners because of their excellent taste and transportability.
- West Virginia-style hot dog: Topped with chili and coleslaw, this uniquely West Virginian treat might sound strange, but it is also tasty, unique, and unforgettable.
A Strong Sense of Community: What Are the Best Cities in West Virginia to Call Home?
West Virginia provides that ideal balance of affordability, low crime rates, and friendly people – What’s not to love? Of course, you need to narrow down your search, and in addition to following these five house-hunting tips from professional movers, it is essential to research your next potential hometown.
Here are three amazing cities in West Virginia that should be on your radar:
Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Charleston
The largest city and state capital, Charleston, has a population of roughly 46,692 residents. Situated at the junction of Kanawha and Elk Rivers, the town is known for its several historical, cultural, and recreational opportunities, the highlight being the state capitol, which features a massive 23-karat gold dome!
The median age of residents is 41.7, making it a perfect place for older adults and retirees who prefer a simpler, laid-back lifestyle.
Be aware that because of the smaller population, especially compared to the Denver metro area, there are fewer opportunities for nightlife, but don’t think you cannot enjoy a great meal at one of the city’s best restaurants.
The median home price is $186,300, and some of the major industries in the city include natural gas, banking, coal production, and manufacturing. Some of the best neighborhoods in the city are:
- South Hills
- Edgewood
- East End
- Mink Shoals
Are you ready to pack up your home and start house hunting in West Virginia? Contact Eden’s Moving Services now to help you understand the benefits of an in-house moving estimate.
The Small-Town Feel of Morgantown
The population of Morgantown is 29,399, making it comparable in size to Aurora, Fort Collins, and Lakewood, Colorado.
Known for its excellent farmers markets, the Art Museum of West Virginia University, and the Earl L. Coleman Arboretum, the Morgantown, WV, is ideally situated at the foothills of the incomparable Appalachian Mountains and alongside the Monongahela River.
If you want to start a family or continue your education, the city has several excellent school districts. An affordable city with low property taxes, the city’s cost of living index is only slightly higher than the rest of the state but much lower than Colorado, particularly the Denver area.
Need to move ASAP? It isn’t ideal, so here is some information about how to handle short-notice moves.
Home of the West Virginia University
Founded in 1867, WVU is the crown jewel of Morgantown and one of the best universities in West Virginia. The total enrollment is roughly 25,474, and top programs include the College of Business and Economics, the School of Medicine, and the College of Engineering and Mineral Resources.
If you are researching the best long-distance movers to help your young adult relocate, here are some tips to prepare for professional movers in Colorado.
West Virginians Are Raving About Huntington, WV
Home of Marshall University, Huntington, WV, is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and not just because you can enjoy the views of the Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River.
This city, with a population of 45,074 residents, boasts several urban parks and green spaces, not to mention the Huntington Museum of Art, the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway Heritage Center, and the Cabell County Courthouse.
The average rental cost is $1,197/ month, and the median household income is $39,066 annually. Huntington is actually part of the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, which has a population of roughly 380,000 residents.
Are you ready to move to Huntington? Check out these reasons to hire Denver movers for your big move!
A Beginner’s Guide to Moving to The Mountain State with Pets
If you think moving long-distance by yourself is complicated, try packing up and relocating any distance with your kids and pets!
Moving with kids is always complicated, but with some proper preparation, including learning how to entertain kids while waiting for the moving truck, it is possible to relocate from Colorado to West Virginia with minimal complaining!
There are several vital things you can start doing today to ensure that the transition to your new WV home is stress-free for all parties involved, including your curious pets.
Preparing Your Pet for the Journey Ahead
No matter if you have a massive St. Bernard, a tiny Chihuahua, or a curious tabby cat, the process of relocating and such a significant change in environment and houses can be very stressful for your pet.
Unfortunately, this stress can manifest in several ways, including a pet who refuses to eat or becomes overly aggressive.
How can you combat this? Take the time to prepare your pet for the journey. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Familiarize your pet with their carrier or vehicle: Let them explore their carrier or pet cage. Add blankets and toys to make the carrier a safer environment. Take your pet on short drives around the neighborhood to prepare them for the long drive to your new WV home.
- Prepare a travel kit: Include everything your pet will need to remain comfortable and safe, including food, water, toys, and treats, and consider purchasing an over-the-counter calming medication from your veterinarian.
- Map out your journey: If you have a dog, plan your route carefully to include stops every few hours. Research pet-friendly hotels along the way and make sure to take your time and plan for frequent rests to ensure your pet remains comfortable.
If you are driving, make several stops to allow your dogs to stretch out their legs, relieve themselves, and destress outside your vehicle.
Watch for signs that your pet is distressed, including excessive drooling, panting, destructive behaviors, loss of appetite, and lethargy. Need more help? Follow these tips from your Denver moving company on how to move with pets!
Destress Your Pet by Enjoying the Appalachian Trail and Other Outdoor Adventures Immediately After Arriving
Once you arrive, your first instinct will be to start unpacking boxes and organizing your life. Put your pet’s needs first, and instead, take some time to allow your dog to explore their neighborhood or your cat to explore their new home.
Take your dog for a nice long walk around the neighborhood and explore some of West Virginia’s natural wonders, including the Appalachian Trail.
Don’t be surprised if it takes your pet several days to acclimate, and also don’t forget to take care of yourself, too! Follow these tips on how to eat right during your move.
Tips for Staying on Track During Your Long-Distance Relocation
The ideal move would be stress-free, easy, straightforward, and cost as little money as possible. The key to realizing all these goals is to avoid common mistakes people make when working with a long-distance moving company and stay on task.
Follow these simple tips and tricks guaranteed to help you stay the course while moving to West Virginia:
Start With Decluttering
No organized move can occur until you eliminate chaos, and the best option is to declutter your belongings. As a rule, throw away, sell, or donate any household goods, clothing, electronics, or other items you have not used, worn, or even remembered existed for the last 12 months.
Hosting a yard sale, estate sale, or selling unwanted items on local marketplaces is not only a great way to declutter, but you can also use the profits to pay for your moving expenses. What could be better than that?!
Create a Moving Binder
A binder or spreadsheet is a great way to stay organized, ensure you are purchasing the necessary packing supplies, and keep track of your expenses.
For example, how many boxes to pack up and move a two-bedroom apartment successfully? (Here’s a hint: The answer is 25 to 35 boxes)
The binder will help you keep track of all the packing materials you purchased and hold any other necessary documents, including the moving and temporary storage contracts.
Set Realistic Deadlines
Deadlines seem constricting, but they are the best method to prevent taking too long to pack up your home, hire a moving company, and ensure you remain on track with every other decision and task you must complete before the moving trucks arrive.
For example, consider giving yourself no more than one day to pack up each room. You may require multiple days for larger rooms or spaces housing more stuff, such as your attic or garage. In some cases, you may only need a couple of hours. Whatever the case, give yourself a timeline and stick to it.
Are you struggling and feeling overwhelmed with the relocation process? Here are a few tips that are guaranteed to help you stay alert during your move!
Take these Steps ASAP After Getting Settled in Your New West Virginia Home
You made it! After weeks or months of planning, preparing, stressing, and dreaming, you made it to West Virginia and are enjoying life as a West Virginian! Before you get too overwhelmed with unpacking and organizing, you need to take a few necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition.
Establishing residency and obtaining a new driver’s license
To legally establish residency in the state of West Virginia, you must take one of the following steps and live consecutively in the state for at least twelve months:
- Purchase or rent a property
- Find employment in the state
- Register to vote
- Own a business in the state
- Have a child enrolled in a primary or secondary educational program or school
As with any other state, you can transfer your out-of-state license at the nearest Department of Motor Vehicles, so long as the license has not expired. Now that you’ve handled the logistics, it’s time to follow this guide on how to settle into your new home quickly!
Tips for Moving During All Four Seasons
Whether you are moving to the southern part of the state or calling the Easter panhandle home, moving during every season poses unique challenges and offers benefits. Here is a clear-cut guide to help you plan a fantastic relocation, no matter what time of the year:
Planning an Easy Summer Move
Summer is inarguably the busy season in the moving industry, and obviously, this is because of the favorable weather; if you have kids, it is preferable to relocate while they are out of school. Unfortunately, the chaos of summer also means moving costs are higher, and availability is greatly limited.
The solution is to hire movers several months in advance, negotiate a fair price, and declutter to lessen the weight of your household goods.
Enjoying the Beautiful Scenery and the Appalachian Mountains During Fall
Nothing compares to the grandeur and beauty of West Virginia in fall, and because the temperatures are favorable, you will enjoy your West Virginia moving experience that much more! Autumn is also a busy time for movers, so plan accordingly.
Additionally, because you are moving from Colorado when the weather can turn on a dime, anticipate poor road conditions and give yourself more time to load the truck and drive to West Virginia.
A Winter Move Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult
Colorado winters are notoriously brutal, which is why you are escpa9ing the Centennial State for greener pastures and more pleasant weather.
Late October through early spring is a great time to relocate from a financial standpoint, but it can be tricky if the weather is questionable. If a winter move makes economic sense, follow these 10 tips to help you survive a winter move.
Spring Might Be the Perfect Season for Outdoor Recreation, and Moving to West Virginia
Want to move during the optimal conditions? Wait until spring! Movers are not as busy; Mother Nature is typically more cooperative, and you can schedule the bulk of your relocation during your kid’s spring break! Are you selling your home before the big move? Follow these three tips for staging your Colorado house!
Our Customers Also Ask
Is West Virginia paying $12,000 to move there?
Yes. West Virginia is enticing newcomers with $12,000 to relocate to the Mountain State, but there is a catch.
You must be a remote worker and live in the state for at least two years. Remote workers who move to West Virginia can receive $10,000 after their first year of residence and an additional $2,000 the year after.
In addition to the cash, remote workers can also receive free access to several outdoor programs, free coworking memberships, and a host of other incentives.
If this sounds like a great option, follow this guide to save money on your Colorado move and tips to avoid moving mistakes that will derail your relocation.
Is West Virginia a good place to live?
When you consider the low living costs, low crime rates, and outstanding educational opportunities, West Virginia is a beautiful place to raise a family, start a career, or retire.
The state is arguably just as beautiful as Colorado, and there are several wonderful outdoor activities to choose from.
There are downsides to living in West Virginia, including the lack of culture, including museums and theaters, and the other amenities provided by modern cities.
What to expect when moving to West Virginia?
West Virginia is a state where you can enjoy all four seasons, but unlike Colorado, the winters are far milder. The people are friendly, the food is simple but satisfying, and the views cannot be beaten!
Moving to West Virginia is an excellent option for many Colorado residents, and if you are amongst them, let Eden’s Moving Services help get your belongings ready for storage and assist you in planning a green move!
