8 Charming Small Towns in West Virginia

When you think about moving to West Virginia, bustling cities like Charleston or Huntington may come to mind. However, this province has a lot to offer. From small towns to community festivals, West Virginia’s small towns are perfect for anyone who wants to experience what life is like in their quiet corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming towns in West Virginia, each with its own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Elkins, WV
Average selling price: $226,000
Real Estate in Elkins | Real estate in Elkins
Elkins, located in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest, is surrounded by natural beauty and is famous for its Appalachian music and culture. The town is famous for the Mountain State Forest Festival, one of the largest and oldest festivals in the state. The event celebrates the region’s forestry industry with craft shows, parades, and outdoor activities. Elkins is also home to the American Mountain Theater, where visitors can enjoy live performances of bluegrass, country, and folk music—a true nod to the town’s Appalachian roots.
2. Kingwood, WV
Average selling price: $180,000
Homes in Kingwood | Real estate in Kingwood
Kingwood is a quiet town in northern West Virginia. The town is home to the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival, which has been celebrated since 1938 and draws visitors with its buckwheat cakes, arts and crafts, and livestock shows. The town of Kingwood is full of well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its roots as a busy center for local farmers and artisans. For history buffs, the James Clark McGrew House, a Victorian-style mansion and museum, offers a glimpse into the life of one of the city’s earliest residents.
3. Buckhannon, WV
Average selling price: $205,000
Buckhannon Real Estate | Homes in Buckhannon
Buckhannon is located in central West Virginia with an exciting arts scene and fun annual festivals. Each spring, the city hosts the famous West Virginia Strawberry Festival, celebrating the state’s agricultural heritage with parades, live music, and delicious strawberry food. As the home of West Virginia Wesleyan College, Buckhannon is busy with student-led events, art exhibits, and sports. The downtown area is lined with unique shops and galleries, such as Artistry on Main, where local artists display their work.
4. Marmet, WV
Average selling price: $115,000
Real estate in Marmet | Houses in Marmet
Marmet, a small town along the Kanawha River. This area has an interesting history connected to West Virginia’s coal mining and river transportation industries. The city’s location on the river made it an important coal shipping point, and it still retains traces of its industries. Nearby you can see the Marmet Lock and Dam, one of the largest river locks in the Kanawha. It is a unique site where visitors can watch boats go by and learn about the city’s history of transportation and trade. The nearby Coal River is popular with paddlers, offering kayaking trails that allow people to explore the beautiful scenery.
5. Bridgeport, WV
Average selling price: $280,000
Homes in Bridgeport | Real estate in Bridgeport
Bridgeport is a growing city in northern West Virginia. For those interested in aviation, the nearby Mid-Atlantic Aerospace Complex can give you a look at the city’s role in the development of aviation. Bridgeport’s Charles Pointe area features shopping, dining and events year-round. This provides residents and visitors with many entertainment options. The city’s Benedum Civic Center hosts local theater performances, art classes, and community events, enriching Bridgeport’s cultural scene.
6. New Martinsville, WV
Average selling price: $158,000
New Martinsville Real Estate | Real estate in New Martinsville
New Martinsville sits along the Ohio River and is popular for its river views. The city’s waterfront is a popular venue for community events, including the New Martinsville Regatta, where speedboats race along the river. History buffs can explore the downtown area, which is full of historic buildings such as the Wetzel County Courthouse, a fine example of Romanesque architecture. Additionally, New Martinsville’s proximity to the Ohio River also makes it ideal for fishing and boating.
7. Ravenswood, WV
Average selling price: $250,000
Ravenswood Real Estate | Real estate in Ravenswood
Ravenswood is another town on the banks of the Ohio River. The city’s riverfront park is a great place to relax and is a favorite for events like the Ohio River Festival, which includes boat races, live music, and local food vendors. The historic district of Ravenswood features well-preserved buildings from the 19th century, reflecting its role as an early trading post on the river. Do you want more? Go to the center of town where you can see the Ravenswood Community Clock. The clock stands as a lovely landmark to see.
8. Moundsville, WV
Average selling price: $122,500
Moundsville Real Estate | Real estate in Moundsville
Moundsville is known for its ancient burial mounds and unique cultural landmarks. The city’s namesake, Grave Creek Mound, is one of the largest burial mounds in the United States. Dating back 2,000 years, the site offers people a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric Native American culture. Moundsville is also home to the former West Virginia State Penitentiary, a stunning prison-turned-museum that hosts tours and ghost hunts, attracting visitors interested in the paranormal. With its mix of historic sites, popular sites, and community events, Moundsville offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs and thrill seekers alike.
How to do it: The median home sales price ranges from Redfin Data Center.
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