Expert Advice For Moving to West Virginia

Wild and Wonderful! These words fit West Virginia to a T (W actually, but you get the picture). If you’ve ever been to the Mountain State, you know just what we’re talking about. From its beautiful nature and lack of crowds to its unbelievably low cost of living, the state formerly dubbed the “Switzerland of America” is indeed a sight to behold and a beautiful place to hang your hat.

Mulling over a move to West Virginia? We’re here to help. Great Guys Moving has put together this handy WV moving guide, broken down into the following sections:

1. Things to Consider Before Moving to WV
2. Top Places to Live in the Appalachian State
3. Helpful Interstate Moving Checklist
4. Great Guys Cheap Moving Services

Ready to get moving? Let us provide you with free moving quotes from reputable, affordable West Virginia movers in a matter of minutes. It’s that easy!

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Living in West Virginia: What to Know Before Moving to West Virginia

Relocating to the Mountain State? If so, you should consider a few things before heading to America’s 10th smallest state by total area (24,230 square miles) and 38th largest state by population (1.8 million).

Pros and Cons of Living in West Virginia

Pros: 

• Low cost of living: If you’re looking for cheap living expenses, West Virginia certainly does not disappoint. The current cost of living index is only 78.1, compared to the US average of 100.
• Cheap Housing: Whether you want to own or rent your home, it won’t put much of a dent in your wallet. The median selling price is currently $149,500, while a 2BR apartment is only $729 per month.
• Endless outdoor adventures: There’s a good reason the state’s signs say, “Wild and Wonderful.” If you’re a nature lover, the mountains, trees, rivers, cricks, and more will capture your heart.
• True Four Seasons: Even though the state is pretty close to the Atlantic, it leans more toward a mid-continental climate. This climate results in four distinct seasons, including fall with its heavenly autumn colors.
• Small town vibe: There’s something to be said about a strong sense of community. Not everything is perfect, but at least neighbors around here know how to look out for each other.
• Not too crowded: Want to escape the congestion of bigger metro areas? You can breathe easy among WV’s majestic mountains. Even the state’s largest cities are less densely packed, too.
• Music Central: A fan of roots music? Americana tunes and jam bands are huge here. From numerous cozy venues to the Mountain Music Festival, West Virginia is a pluckin’ paradise.

Cons:

• Economic woes: According to economy scores by US News & World Report, West Virginia comes in dead last. As they say: once you hit rock bottom, you can only go up. Here’s to thriving again.
• Lack of jobs: The once-booming industries of steel, coal, and glass are now shadows of their former selves. Of course, with death comes rebirth. The residents of WV are still hopeful.
• Dismal Education: As with the economy, things aren’t exactly rosy with WV schooling. According to education rankings by US News, the state ranks #45 in higher education and #42 for Pre-K–12 education.
• Population decline: Since 2010 or so, more and more folks have been leaving the state in search of better opportunities. This exodus is primarily due to the decline of the steel and coal industries.
• Drug crisis: Home to some of the highest rates of drug overdose in the country, West Virginia also has possibly the highest percentage of people suffering from opioid addiction in the US.
• Weirds laws: Every state’s got ’em, and the Panhandle State is no exception. How about it being legal to take home roadkill? Yep. Falling asleep on a train? Nope, that one’s against the law.

Is West Virginia a Good State to Live In?

West Virginia is a wonderful state because it offers a sanctuary from the crowds, it enjoys a charming small-town vibe, and it has a low cost of living. It may be home to some of the most rugged terrain in the country, but that just adds to its endless “wild and wonderful” outdoor adventures. West Virginia is somewhat of a hidden gem and housing is a lot cheaper here compared to its more popular neighbors.

Tax Rates

• Property Tax: 0.59%. The effective real-estate tax rate is #8 lowest in the US.
• Sales Tax: WV base state sales tax rate: 6%. Combined with local taxes: 6–7%.
• Income Tax: 3–6.5%. The state has five tax rates (3%, 4%, 4.5%, 6, and 6.5%).

Housing Market

To Rent or Buy? Overall, it is technically a better option to rent rather than buy a home in West Virginia. But either way, housing expenses are pleasantly low. According to a housing costs breakdown by HousingWire, the median mortgage is $997, while the average monthly rent is only $681 per month.

• Median Home Value: $99,700
• Median Rental Expense: $600 (1BR), $729 (2BR)

Cheapest Places to Live in West Virginia:

1. Weirton
2. Grafton
3. Clarksburg
4. Bluefield
5. New Martinsville
6. Oak Hill
7. Princeton
8. Dunbar
9. South Charleston
10. St. Albans

Cost of Living

According to the Cost of Living in West Virginia by BestPlaces, West Virginia has a cost of living index of 78.1. This index is much lower than the national average of 100.

Using EPI’s Family Budget Calculator, we can compare the average monthly costs in three West Virginia areas. We’ll use a family of four for these examples (2 adults + 2 kids).

Bethlehem (Wheeling Metro Area):

1. Housing = $695
2. Food = $711
3. Childcare = $1,139
4. Transportation = $1,187
5. Healthcare = $1,112
6. Other necessities = $567
7. Taxes = $779
8. Grand total = $6,190 per month or $74,284 per year

Charleston Metro Area:

1. Housing = $789
2. Food = $703
3. Childcare = $1,249
4. Transportation = $1,137
5. Healthcare = $1,535
6. Other necessities = $602
7. Taxes = $1,030
8. Grand total = $7,045 per month or $84,540 per year

Morgantown Metro Area:

1. Housing = $823
2. Food = $743
3. Childcare = $1,276
4. Transportation = $1,186
5. Healthcare = $1,417
6. Other necessities = $632
7. Taxes = $1,050
8. Grand total = $7,127 per month or $85,523 per year

Weather & Natural Disasters

The state of West Virginia experiences an overall humid subtropical climate. This generally brings warmer summers and cold winters.

Though it’s relatively close to the Atlantic Ocean (with Virginia and Maryland to the east), West Virginia experiences a more mid-continental climate. This climate would usually result in colder winters and hotter summers, but the Appalachian and Allegheny Mountains shield the state from extreme conditions.

Because of the humidity, summertime tends to feel hotter than it is. During winter, the state sees snowfall that is particularly popular with winter sports enthusiasts. The Allegheny Mountains receive a lot of rainfall, and climate varies significantly at higher elevations.

Climate Statistics:

1. Average rainfall – 45 inches
2. Average snowfall – 33 inches
3. Sunshine – 164 sunny days
4. Summer high – 83°F (July)
5. Winter low – 21°F (January)

The most common type of natural threat in West Virginia is flooding (followed by severe storms and mudslides). In 2018, West Virginia ranked #4 out of all 50 states on Gold Eagle’s state natural disaster preparedness list. For more info, check out the Center for Threat Preparedness page.

Natural Disaster – Threats & Risks:

1. Flooding
2. Severe Storms
3. Mudslides / Landslides
4. Winter Storms
5. Drought
6. Remnants of Hurricane
7. Wildfires
8. Tornadoes
9. Earthquakes

Economy & Job Market

According to Economy Rankings by US News & World Report, West Virginia is currently ranked #50 in the United States. This score is based on three subcategories: business environment (#50), employment (#50), and growth (#47). Its GDP is approximately $74 billion, and the median income is $24,478.

Top Industries:

1. Mining (coal, natural gas, etc.)
2. Healthcare
3. Chemicals
4. Biotech
5. Retail
6. Education
7. Manufacturing
8. Hospitality
9. Government
10. Professional Services

Top Employers:

1. WVU Medicine (Morgantown)
2. CAMC Health System (Charleston)
3. Urgent Care MSO LLC (Morgantown)
4. Esmark (Wheeling)
5. Ogden Newspapers (Wheeling)
6. Special Metals Corporation (Huntington)
7. DFS Newell (Newell)
8. Thomas Memorial Hospital (South Charleston)
9. Oglebay Resort (Wheeling)
10. Princeton Community Hospital (Princeton)
11. Cabell Huntington Hospital (Huntington)
12. Marshall University (Huntington)
13. Wheeling Hospital (Wheeling)
14. Thomas Health System (South Charleston)
15. American Public Education (Charles Town)
16. RG Steel Wheeling LLC (Wheeling)
17. WesBanco (Wheeling)
18. Mountaineer Casino Racetrack & Resort (New Cumberland)
19. OVMC and EORH (Wheeling)
20. Sterling Hospitality Inc. (Morgantown)

Looking for work in West Virginia? Here are some handy resources:

1. WorkforceWV.gov page: Job Seekers – WorkForce West Virginia
2. Job search: Indeed, LinkedIn, CollegeRecruiter, CareerBuilder
3. Resume help: Monster, TopResume, ResumeRobin

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Traffic and Transportation

According to Best and Worst States to Drive In by WalletHub, West Virginia comes in at #40 in the country. This ranking is based on four subcategories: cost of ownership & maintenance (#21), traffic & infrastructure (#39), safety (#33), and access to vehicles & maintenance (#41).

Major Forms of Transportation:

1. Highways and public roads
2. Air (including Yeager Airport)
3. Rivers (commercial barge and docks)
4. Amtrak (Cardinal Route and Capital Limited Route)
5. Railroad (Durbin, Greenbrier Valley, and New River Gorge Mystery Train)
6. Bus Service (public bus systems, Greyhound)
7. Car Rental (major companies)
8. Personal vehicles
9. Taxi Service (larger cities)
10. Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft, etc.)

Primary Interstate Highways:

• Interstate 64: At nearly 189 miles in length, I-64 is West Virginia’s longest stretch of interstate highway. It runs the KY state line near Ashland to the VA state line near White Sulphur Springs.
• Interstate 68: This popular section of highway measures at only 31.5 miles long. I-68 travels from I-79 in Morgantown to the Maryland state line close by the small town of Friendsville, MD.
• Interstate 70: Even shorter than I-68 – it’s the shortest length of the interstate highway in any state at 14.45 miles – I-70 runs west-east from the Ohio state line in Wheeling to the PA state line.
• Interstate 77: This major north-south interstate highway is a close second in length at about 187 miles. It goes from the Ohio state line near Marietta to the Virginia state line close to Bluefield.
• Interstate 79: As a major thoroughfare through West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania, I-79 travels from the south close to Charleston, WV to the north at the PA state line close to Mount Morris, PA.
• Interstate 81: This section is another shorter one at 26 miles in length. Constructed in 1963, it runs from the Virginia state line close to Rest, VA, to the Maryland state line in Williamsport, MD.

Things to Do

Looking for fun in West Virginia? Here are the top picks.

Tourist Destinations:

The Mountain State is home to rich American history and natural attractions.

• Heritage Farm Museum & Village: Dedicated to preserving Appalachian history, the village houses 15 log buildings, a blacksmith shop, petting zoo, and much more.
• Harpers Ferry: This small town was where abolitionist John Brown raided the United States arsenal, which sped the start of the Civil War.
• The Greenbrier: Known as “The Bunker,” visitors can now explore this once top-secret congressional relocation facility from the Cold War era.
• New River Gorge National River: Ironically, one of the oldest rivers in North America, it is great for whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, and more.
• West Virginia Botanic Garden: This garden, which sits on the former Tibbs Reservoir, is home to 80 acres of regional plants and landscapes.

Food & Drink:

West Virginia has wild and wonderful options! Here are the top picks:

• Top All-You-Can-Eat: Quinet’s (New Martinsville)
• Top Bar: Mario’s Fishbowl (Morgantown)
• Top Beer: Moxxee Coffee Stout, Bridge Brew Works (Fayetteville) 
• Top Brunch: Bluegrass Kitchen (Charleston)
• Top Burger: Avenue Eats (Wheeling)
• Top Dive Bar: Doug’s Topside Tavern (South Charleston)
• Top Chocolate Shop: Holl’s Chocolate (Vienna)
• Top Coffee Shop: Lost Dog Coffee (Shepherdstown)
• Top Donuts: JR’s Donut Castle (Parkersburg)
• Top Farmers Market: Morgantown Farmers Market (Morgantown)

State Parks:

Want to explore West Virginia’s wild and wonderful natural beauty? Consider these popular parks:

• Grandview State Park: Awesome views, hiking trails, and playgrounds. Located in Beckley.
• Blackwater Falls State Park: Home to 57-foot tall Blackwater Falls, this state park is in Davis.
• Coopers Rock State Park: This Bruceton Mills gem offers stunning views of canyon and more.
• Seneca Rocks State Park: Rocks rise 900 feet above North Fork River at this Seneca Rocks locale.
• Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: This park in Cass offers visitors gorgeous scenery and guided tours.

Museums:

Love history, art, and more? Here are the Top 5 WV museums:

• Archive of the Afterlife: Self-described as the “National Museum of the Paranormal.”
• Appalachian Glass: This glassblower in Lewis County offers a great little museum and daily demonstrations of glassblowing.
• West Virginia State Museum: Dedicated to the history, culture, and art of West Virginia, this museum is in downtown Charleston.
• Green Bank Observatory: Take a tour to see some of the world’s biggest radio telescopes.
• Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine & Youth Museum: Dig into WV’s coal mining past with this underground mining tour and exhibitions.

Cool & Unusual:

Looking for something different to explore in West Virginia? Check out:

• Lake Shawnee Amusement Park: A deserted amusement park that sits on top of a Native American burial site. Located in Rock.
• Thurmond, West Virginia: Once a prosperous town, Thurmond is now West Virginia’s famous ghost town.
• Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum: This abandoned asylum in Weston is a popular destination for ghost hunters and the like.
• Mothman Museum: Located in Point Pleasant, this museum celebrates the mythology and history of the popular urban legend.
• Mystery Hole: Kitschy and odd, this roadside favorite in Ansted is home to purported gravity anomalies and a wacky gift shop.

Schools and Universities

Despite being ranked #37 overall in states with the best schools by USA Today, West Virginia has the 3rd highest high-school graduation rate at 89.8%. As for higher education, the state is home to several small to midsize colleges and universities, including the public institution of West Virginia University (WVU).

Top WV Colleges:

1. West Virginia University (Morgantown)
2. West Virginia State University (Institute)
3. Wheeling University (Wheeling)
4. Shepherd University (Shepherdstown)
5. University of Charleston (Charleston)
6. Alderson Broaddus University (Philippi)
7. Davis and Elkins College (Elkins)
8. West Virginia Wesleyan College (Buckhannon)
9. Bluefield State College (Bluefield)
10. Ohio Valley University (Vienna)

Top WV Public School Districts:

1. Ohio County Schools (Wheeling)
2. Monongalia County Schools (Morgantown)
3. Doddridge County Schools (West Union)
4. Mineral County Schools (Keyser)
5. Issaquah School District (Parkersburg)
6. Berkeley County Schools (Martinsburg)
7. Harrison County Schools (Clarksburg)
8. Jackson County Schools (Ripley)
9. Jefferson County Schools (Charles Town)
10. Tyler County Schools (Sistersville)

How to Become a West Virginia Resident

To become an official resident of West Virginia (for several benefits, including taxes and tuition eligibility), you must spend over 30 days in the state and show intent to live here permanently.

You can also claim residency if you are a “domiciliary resident” (have a permanent place of residence) in the state of Virginia or the state of Pennsylvania while maintaining a physical presence in West Virginia for longer than 183 days. For tuition purposes, please refer to each institution’s specific criteria.

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Moving to West Virginia DMV

Acquiring a new driver’s license:

After moving to West Virginia, new residents who plan on driving in the state have 30 days to obtain a WV driver’s license. You may transfer an out-of-state license if it is valid and non-expired.

Steps to getting a new license:

1. Establish West Virginia residency
2. Visit your local DMV location
3. Complete application
4. Provide: ID, proof of social security number, two proofs of WV residency (showing name and address), and proof of legal name change (if applicable)
5. Pass a vision screening
6. Complete alcohol awareness test
7. Surrender out-of-state driver’s license
8. If expired, must take all tests and examinations
9. Pay the applicable licensing fee

Vehicle registration:

New WV residents must register and title an out-of-state vehicle within 30 days.

If your vehicle is titled under your name in another state (and there’s no lien), you must: 1) present current title 2) submit West Virginia title application (DMV-1-TR) 3) complete odometer disclosure statement 4) provide insurance information (must be from a company licensed to sell in West Virginia).

If a lienholder holds the title, you must: 1) complete West Virginia title application (DMV-1-TR) 2) provide insurance information (can list on title application) 3) Complete odometer disclosure statement.

In either case, be prepared to pay fees. For more info, check out the DMV title and registration page.

To qualify to vote, you must be:

1. A United States citizen
2. A West Virginia resident
3. 18 years or older on election day

You can register to vote online (must provide ID info, date of birth, and last four digits of social security number), by mail (to county clerk’s office or the Secretary of State’s Office), or in-person (via county clerk’s office, Secretary of State’s office, Department of Motor Vehicles, and other gov’t agencies).

WV voters must present ID to vote at the polls on election day. West Virginia allows early voting. However, it does not permit no-excuse absentee voting or same-day voter registration.

*NOTE: A felon may re-register to vote in West Virginia once he or his is no longer incarcerated, on parole, or on probation (following the conviction of felony, treason or bribery in an election.)

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Best Places to Live in West Virginia

Bethlehem

Population: 2,400
Median Home Value: $148,600
Region: Northern West Virginia

Located in Ohio County, the village of Bethlehem is part of the Wheeling metropolitan area. It is considered the #2 best place to buy a home in the entire state. Here, 82% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are ranked high.

Ranked #5 among the best places to live in West Virginia by The Crazy Tourist, Bethlehem is a quiet town perfect for raising a family. It scores high because of three elements: great schools, awesome housing prices, and a strong sense of community. It’s also less than 10 minutes from Wheeling.

On the downside, locals say that crime and drug trafficking have been on the rise in this tiny town. It could just be rumors, but the reality is that West Virginia as a whole is seeing a drug epidemic. Despite this, Bethlehem maintains an ‘A’ rating in crime & safety.

Are you raising a family or planning for the future? Top public schools serving the Bethlehem area include Ritchie Elementary School, Bridge Street Middle School, Wheeling Middle School, Wheeling Park High School, and Bethlehem Elementary School.

Looking to settle down and buy a house in the Wheeling metro area? Bethlehem might be the place you’ve had in mind.

Bridgeport

Population: 8,600
Median Home Value: $195,300
Region: Northern West Virginia

Moving on over to the south of Morgantown (about 40 minutes by vehicle), we find ourselves in Bridgeport. Situated in Harrison County, this tiny city is considered the #2 best place to retire in the state of West Virginia. Some 83% of residents own their homes, and public schools are highly rated.

Bridgeport landed at #16 on USA Today’s list of 50 best cities to live in the US. That’s no small feat! With a median income of over $82,000 per year and more than 50% of adults with college degrees (compared to the US median of less than 31%), the city is home to educated and affluent folks. It also has a great selection of restaurants, recreation centers, and many other amenities.

Top public schools serving the Bridgeport area include Bridgeport Middle School, Bridgeport High School, Johnson Elementary School, and Simpson Elementary School. For private schooling, there’s Heritage Christian School. Bridgeport is also home to West Virginia College – Bridgeport.

If you’re in the market for one of the best small cities to live in, not only West Virginia but the whole of America, Bridgeport should be at the top of your list!

Cheat Lake

Population: 9,500
Median Home Value: $261,400
Region: Northern West Virginia

Ranked the #1 place to raise a family in West Virginia, Cheat Lake has quite a reputation. The census-designated place (CDP) is in Monongalia County. It’s also part of the Morgantown metro area. Here, 80% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly ranked.

What makes Cheat Lake so great? For starters, the schools are stellar. It, of course, offers lake access and many outdoor activities. Couple that with higher ethnic and economic diversity, and you can see why The Crazy Tourist placed Cheat Lake at the top of their list of the 15 best places to live in WV. As for drawbacks, residents tend to point out issues with road infrastructure, but that’s a small price to pay for everything else this beautiful area has to offer.

Have kids? Top public schools serving the Cheat Lake area include Mountaineer Middle School, South Middle School, Brookhaven Elementary School, Morgantown High School, and University High School. For private education, consider Trinity Christian School.

If you love lake living and have kids, Cheat Lake deserves some serious consideration.

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Morgantown

Population: 30,500
Median Home Value: $193,100
Region: Northern West Virginia

Morgantown is the fourth largest city in West Virginia. The city is considered one of the best places to live in the entire state. Approximately 57% of residents rent their homes, and public schools are ranked high.

Considered one of America’s favorite small cities, Morgantown was ranked #65 out of the Top 100 best places to live in the country by Livability. It’s also home to West Virginia University, which adds a strong college-town feel and vibrancy. And when it comes to music, arts, and nightlife, it is hard to beat this place. In fact, many folks consider Morgantown the #1 most exciting place in WV.

Top public schools include Suncrest Middle School, Suncrest Primary School, North Elementary School, Mountaineer Middle School, and Mountainview Elementary School. In addition to West Virginia University, Morgantown is also home to West Virginia Junior College – Morgantown, Monongalia County Technical Education Center, Morgantown Beauty College, and Ross Medical Education Center – Morgantown.

Top neighborhoods to explore in Morgantown include Greenmont; South Park & First Ward; Woodburn; Evansdale, Wiles Hill & Highland Park; Suncrest; Sabraton & Jerome Park; and West & Granville.

Whether you’re a college student, family person, or professional, Morgantown is a great city to call home!

Star City

Population: 2,200
Median Home Value: $167,800
Region: Northern West Virginia

Last but not least, we end our trip through the northern part of WV in Star City. Arguably the #1 place to live in West Virginia, the charming little town is situated along the Monongahela River. Fifty-two percent of residents own their homes, and the public schools are stellar.

The best words to describe Star City are ‘cozy,’ ‘quiet,’ and ‘quaint.’ There’s a lovable charm about it, and the residents are hospitable and friendly. Combine that with affordable housing, awesome schools, low crime, and a nice selection of activities, and you have a great recipe for simple, small-town living.

Are you looking for the best educational opportunities in Star City, WV? Top public schools serving the area include Suncrest Middle School, Suncrest Primary School, and Morgantown High School.

Searching for that ideal WV town, filled with good folks, simple living, and low living expenses? Star City certainly shines bright in this department and then some.

Charleston

Population: 49,000
Median Home Value: $109,200
Region: Southern West Virginia

We now make our way to Charleston. Located in Kanawha County, the city is both the capital and most populated city in WV. 57% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are above average.

Not to be confused with other cities of the same name, West Virginia’s Charleston has been on the rise. The Appalachian city was primarily known for its outdoor recreation (rafting, climbing, and the like), but it now offers much more than just rugged adventures. As the heart of the state, Charleston has become the cultural and – dare we say – stylish hub of WV. Many entrepreneurs and creatives have helped with the rebirth of the city, which has led to numerous new businesses and overall revitalization.

From Capitol Market to the Clay Center for the Arts, Charleston offers amazing amenities and activities. It also is home to a great number of job opportunities. And did we mention how affordable it is here? The average rent is less than $700, and the median home selling price is currently just $144,800! As with any other city, there are drawbacks. In Charleston’s case, there’s room for improvement when it comes to crime rates. It’s current crime & safety rating on Niche is C-.

Top public schools in the Charleston area include George Washington High School, Holz Elementary School, Kenna Elementary School, Overbrook Elementary School, and Ruthlawn Elementary School. Top private schools are Charleston Catholic High School, Sacred Heart Grade School, Bible Center School, Mountaineer Montessori School, and St. Agnes School. Charleston is home to several institutions of higher learning, including the Carver Career Center, University of Charleston, West Virginia Junior College – Charleston, Charleston School of Beauty Culture, and Garnet Career Center.

Are you wondering where to go home shopping? Top neighborhoods in town are City Center / Historic District, East End, West Side, South Hills, and South Charleston & Dunbar.

Looking for a smaller city where everything you need is close by? Charleston offers a plethora of opportunities and amenities sure to satisfy your urban needs in West Virginia.

Lewisburg

Population: 3,900
Median Home Value: $215,400
Region: Southern West Virginia

Next, we take a trip over to Lewisburg. This small town of less than 4,000, located in Greenbrier County, is considered the #1 best place to retire in West Virginia. Approximately 58% of residents own their homes, and the public schools rate above average.

With a warm, working-class vibe, Lewisburg is the type of place where folks smile at each other and stop to have a nice conversation. It is a humble and friendly community with good schools, medical support, and access to the great outdoors. It also offers a reasonable cost of living and ample work opportunities.

Top public schools serving the Lewisburg area include Rainelle Elementary School, Lewisburg Elementary School, Frankford Elementary School, Smoot Elementary School, and White Sulphur Elementary School. As for private educational opportunities, there’s Lewisburg Baptist Academy. The town is also home to West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Are you looking for arguably the best place to spend your golden years? Lewisburg is waiting for you!

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South Charleston

Population: 12,900
Median Home Value: $107,600
Region: Southern West Virginia

We make our last stop in the town of South Charleston. Just northwest of Charleston, this small city ranks as the #1 place to live in Kanawha County. Seventy-two percent of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are above average.

Coming in at #7 on HomeSnack’s ten best places to live in WV in 2019 list, South Charleston is a quiet city with a strong sense of community. It’s growing fast, which is reflected in the expansion of shopping options and road projects. Offering affordability and diversity, the city takes pride in its small-town feel. Plus, Charleston is about 10 minutes away for easy commuting and fun excursions.

As for downsides, South Charleston has higher crime rates and drug problems. Residents, however, say that it is still a relatively safe and welcoming community.

Are you raising a family? Top public schools in the South Charleston area include George Washington High School, Kenna Elementary School, Ruthlawn Elementary School, Weberwood Elementary School, and John Adams High School. The city is also home to Bridge Valley Community & Technical College.

Looking for the top place to live in the Charleston metro area? You’ve found it in South Charleston

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How to Move to West Virginia

Follow this handy interstate moving checklist for a smooth relocation to or from the Mountain State.

2-3 Months Before Moving Day

• Start ahead of time: Procrastination is nobody’s friend, particularly when it comes to moving. If you’re looking for smooth, drama-free relocation, give you and yours at least two to three months to plan and perform your move to or from West Virginia. You’ll be happy you did.
• Hire WV moving company: Compare several fully licensed and insured movers. Select the best candidate ASAP. Booking in advance will ensure the best rates and availability. Need a hand finding fully vetted and qualified movers? Great Guys makes it cheap & easy to book interstate moving services.
• Give folks a heads up: Got a landlord? Let them know as early as possible. This notice will help protect your reference and deposit. Own your current place? The smart money is on working with a real estate professional that can boost your sales price or find highly dependable tenants.
• Declutter household: Now, if you’re looking to save space and money (and who isn’t?), it pays to purge. First, take inventory of your household items. Next, beginning with one room at a time, sort through all your stuff. Decide what you’ll keep or discard. Label, bag, or separate into piles.
• Sell, donate, recycle: Gone through every space of your home and sorted through everything? Good. Sell online, donate to charity, offer to a neighbor, or recycle any disused or worn items.
• Visit your new area: If possible, this is the best way to see what your new town or city has to offer: work, schools, doctors, churches, stores, community events, and so on. Have fun!
• Prep kids: Moving, especially if it’s the first time, can be tough for little ones. Explain the change. Be patient and kind. Also, try to maintain their normal routines during the moving process.

1 Month Away

• Start packing: Doing to by yourself? If so, grab enough moving boxes, tape, and other packing materials. Don’t mix items from different rooms. Fully tape and label boxes. If you don’t have the time or energy to pack everything, we can hook you up with a cheap packing service.
• Update mailing address: To do this, go online to the USPS site or visit a local post office. You should also update your information for online services, home delivery, and box subscriptions.
• Transfer important records: This can include school transcripts and medical records. While you’re at it, be sure to have enough meds and prescriptions on hand during your relocation.
• Handle utilities and services: Schedule for electric, water, gas, and other utilities to be disconnected the day after you move. Have new services like the internet and satellite activated by the time you get to your new place. If possible, try to coordinate with new owners or renters.

2 Weeks Out

• Service vehicle: Planning on driving to your new state? If so, be sure to have your car, truck van or SUV fully inspected and serviced. This servicing includes tire rotation, oil change, A/C check, and so on.
• Book cleaning services: Want the best showing possible or keep your landlord happy? Arrange for deep cleaning of your current home. Also, consider painting, refinishing, and other services.
• Double-check insurance: Whether you have renters insurance or homeowners insurance, it pays to prepare. Contact your moving company and insurer to go over coverage and options. 
• Throw a moving sale: Do you still have a bunch of stuff that you want to unload? Having a moving sale can help you get rid of it, make a few extra bucks, and catch up with the neighborhood.
• Schedule special transport: Have a furry friend or two that can’t travel with you directly to your new home? You can also book special transport for pets. The same goes for prized plants.
• Make arrangements for kids: There’s no way around it, you’ll be distracted on moving day. To protect the little ones, hire a babysitter, or take them to childcare. The same goes for your pets.
• Celebrate your move: This is an exciting new chapter. Take the time to be with the ones you love. Throw a BBQ, dinner party, luncheon, group activity, or solo hangouts. Plan out the celebration over a day or several weeks. Just be sure to have a good time!

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Moving Week

• Pack a first night box: By now, you should have most of your home’s contents packed. Now’s the perfect time to create what’s called a first night or essentials box. Fill it with what you need for the first day or two at your new home: meds, bedding, clothes, toiletries, snacks, toys, hand tools, etc.
• Confirm with the moving company: Get a hold of your movers about a week or so before your moving date: double-check arrival time, contact numbers, and other important details.
• Confirm travel arrangements: Driving? Look over vehicle (tires, oil, etc.) accommodations, and planned driving route. Flying? Double-check flight times and luggage restrictions.
• Rest up: It may be tempting to stay up late and go out the night before moving. Don’t do it! Instead, try to stay in, relax, eat well, and get plenty of sleep. You’ll need to be sharp tomorrow.

Moving Day

• Be present when movers arrive: Okay, moving day is finally here. Want things to go smooth? Meet up with your moving crew to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
• Offer snacks: A nice gesture like this goes a long way. Your movers will greatly appreciate it, and it will most likely add a nice boost. If inclined, provide bottled water and a light snack.
• Tour your place one last time: Once everything has been cleared out and loaded up on the truck, take this opportunity to perform a walkthrough. Look out for any messes or overlooked items.
• Enjoy yourself: Last but not least, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Whether you’re driving or flying, make an adventure out of your move!

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Quality Moving Services from West Virginia Movers

Great Guys Moving offers top WV moving services at cheap rates.

Long Distance Moves

With the right help, an interstate move can be as smooth as silk. Our long distance movers arrive fully licensed, insured, and equipped to handle any move in or out of West Virginia successfully.

Intrastate & Local Moves

Moving to Charlestown? Morgantown? Maybe the Wheeling area? Wherever you’re heading, our group of local moving companies offers topnotch services at prices that will make you smile.

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International Moves

Whether you’re gearing up for corporate relocation or military moving, you need an expert in your corner. Easily navigate complicated customs and visa logistics with our international relocation service.

Small Load Moves

Who’s says you don’t deserve a stress-free move? Not us! We make it super easy to book cheap, quick, and reliable small load movers for your one-bedroom apartment, college dorm, or studio.

Furniture Shipments

Save your back and sanity. Our furniture movers have the right tools, attitude, and experience to successfully transport everything from leather sofas and pool tables to antique curio cabinets.

Piano Transport

Don’t leave your treasured instrument in amateurish hands. Our group of highly trained piano movers takes great pride in their work. Rest well as they safely transport your piano or organ to its new home.

Art Shipping & Transport

Need to relocate family heirlooms or a valuable collection? Fine art? In any case, you need a specialist’s touch. Our art shippers offer everything from custom packaging to carpentry services and more.

Storage

Whether you’re moving, traveling, or remodeling, you most likely need a clean and secure storage solution. Contact us today. We make it simple to find quality short-term or long-term storage options.

Last Minute & Short Notice Moves

It’s never fun facing an unexpected move. Whether you’re relocating for a new job or facing eviction, we’re here to ease the stress. Easily find quick and affordable short notice movers in your area.

Residential Moves

Moving into a new home? If so, that’s exciting news! It also means you now have to deal with a ton of logistics and planning. Leave it to our experienced residential movers. They got it all covered.

Packing Services

Really, who likes to pack? If you’re like most everyone else, you probably can think of better things to spend your time on – work, family, friends, etc. Hire our pro packers for a stress-free experience.

Commercial and Office Moves

Expanding your business or relocating an office? Congratulations! But before we all celebrate, you need a smooth transition. Skip undue delays or downtime by booking our top-tier commercial movers.

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Are you looking for cheap WV moving services? Get your free moving quotes today! Click the button below to get started.

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