Morgantown, West Virginia

Morgantown is a small but growing city with a walkable downtown that exemplifies Main Street USA and an affordable housing market where homes sell under the national median.

You can easily find a job in education, health care, or government research in the area. West Virginia University is one of the top employers in Morgantown; the West Virginia University Health System in particular has been ranked among the country’s best large employers. Mon Health Medical Center is another key employer in the region. There are also two research facilities in Morgantown: the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.

Tucked among the rolling hills of West Virginia, Morgantown has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. White Park is notable for its babbling brooks and 17 miles of trails, with a loop specifically dedicated to mountain biking. Cheat Lake, located east of the city, is ideal for fishing and boating, while the 19-mile Deckers Creek Trail is best for hiking and biking. There are also a handful of golf courses in the region.

Downtown, residents can catch a show at the historic Metropolitan Theatre or explore the Morgantown History Museum. There’s always something happening, whether it’s the farmers’ market or the annual West Virginia Wine & Jazz Festival.