The 30 Richest Places to Live in West Virginia: The State’s Most Affluent Communities
West Virginia’s economic landscape presents a diverse array of communities where prosperity has taken root despite the state’s broader economic challenges.
From the Eastern Panhandle near Virginia and Maryland to established neighborhoods around major cities, certain areas have developed into thriving enclaves of affluence.
These wealthy communities span across multiple counties and showcase varying factors that contribute to their economic success, including proximity to major metropolitan areas, natural resources, and strategic geographic positioning.
The distribution of wealth across West Virginia reveals interesting patterns tied to geography, industry, and regional development.
Communities near state borders often benefit from cross-state economic opportunities, while others have capitalized on local industries, educational institutions, or natural advantages.
Understanding these dynamics provides insight into how certain areas have managed to build and maintain higher income levels and property values compared to the state average.
Here are the 30 richest places to live in West Virginia:
1. Cheat Lake
Cheat Lake stands as West Virginia’s wealthiest city with a population over 5,000 residents. The community boasts an average household income of $161,668 as of 2023.
Located in Monongalia County, this incorporated village sits east-northeast of Morgantown. The area houses 10,485 residents according to current Census data.
The median household income reaches $111,379, demonstrating the community’s strong economic foundation. This income level represents more than triple the state’s median household income.
Home values in Cheat Lake exceed the state average of $169,115 significantly. The higher property costs reflect the desirable nature of this affluent community.
Residents enjoy access to local amenities including the Star City Music Festival and nearby Chestnut Ridge Park. The area offers both cultural events and outdoor recreational opportunities for families.
2. North Hills (Parkersburg)
North Hills represents one of West Virginia’s most expensive residential areas. The community sits within the Parkersburg-Vienna metropolitan region.
Typical home values in North Hills reach $307,724. Property values have increased 3.3% over the past year. The five-year price appreciation stands at 36.5%.
This upscale neighborhood developed to serve affluent families in the Parkersburg metro area. North Hills consistently ranks among the state’s wealthiest communities.
The area attracts residents seeking premium housing options. Home prices significantly exceed regional averages throughout West Virginia.
Real estate values demonstrate steady growth patterns. The community maintains its position as a high-end residential destination in the northern part of the state.
3. Bridgeport
Bridgeport stands as one of West Virginia’s most prosperous communities. The city consistently ranks among the state’s wealthiest municipalities.
The city holds the top position among mid-size cities in West Virginia for median household income. This ranking applies specifically to municipalities with populations between 5,000 and 10,000 residents.
Home values in Bridgeport reflect the community’s affluent status. Property prices exceed the state average of $169,115, with homes currently valued at approximately $282,627.
Located in Harrison County within the Clarksburg metro area, Bridgeport has experienced significant growth. The city has seen steady increases in both income levels and property values over recent years.
Bridgeport attracts residents seeking higher living standards within West Virginia. The community offers a combination of economic stability and desirable neighborhoods that appeal to affluent families.
4. Charles Town
Charles Town stands as one of West Virginia’s most affluent communities. The city boasts a median household income of $83,275, significantly above the state average.
The poverty rate remains remarkably low at just 5.3%. This financial stability attracts residents seeking economic security in the Mountain State.
Located in the Eastern Panhandle, Charles Town benefits from its proximity to Virginia and Maryland. Many residents commute to higher-paying jobs in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
Home prices in Charles Town exceed the state average of $169,115. The real estate market reflects the community’s desirability and economic strength.
The city consistently ranks among West Virginia’s wealthiest locations. Its combination of stable employment opportunities and strategic location contributes to sustained prosperity for residents.
5. Hurricane
Hurricane stands out as one of West Virginia’s most desirable communities for affluent families. The city has earned recognition from Bloomberg Businessweek as the Best Place to Raise a Family in West Virginia.
Located in Putnam County, Hurricane offers a combination of economic stability and family-friendly amenities. The community attracts residents seeking quality schools and safe neighborhoods.
The city’s proximity to Charleston provides access to employment opportunities while maintaining a suburban atmosphere. Hurricane’s strategic location contributes to its appeal among higher-income households.
Local amenities and recreational facilities support the community’s reputation as a premier place to live. The area continues to draw families who prioritize educational excellence and community involvement.
Hurricane’s consistent rankings in state livability studies reflect its strong economic foundation and residential appeal.
6. Pleasant Valley
Pleasant Valley stands as one of West Virginia’s most affluent communities. The city consistently ranks among the state’s wealthiest places to live.
This Monongalia County community attracts residents with higher incomes. Pleasant Valley offers a blend of suburban comfort and economic stability.
The area benefits from its proximity to Morgantown and West Virginia University. This location provides access to employment opportunities and cultural amenities.
Pleasant Valley maintains well-developed residential neighborhoods. The community features quality housing options that appeal to professionals and families.
Local infrastructure supports the area’s affluent status. Residents enjoy access to good schools and essential services.
The city’s economic foundation relies on professional services and education-related industries. Many residents commute to nearby employment centers while enjoying Pleasant Valley’s quieter residential atmosphere.
7. Martinsburg
Martinsburg stands as one of West Virginia’s most prosperous cities, located in the Eastern Panhandle near Maryland and Virginia. The city benefits from its strategic position along major transportation corridors.
Home prices in Martinsburg exceed the state average of $169,115, reflecting the area’s economic strength. This price differential indicates strong demand and purchasing power among residents.
The city’s proximity to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area provides residents access to high-paying employment opportunities. Many professionals commute to jobs in Maryland and Virginia while enjoying West Virginia’s lower cost of living.
Martinsburg’s neighborhoods attract buyers seeking quality housing options in a well-established community. The real estate market reflects the preferences of people who want to live in desirable areas with good amenities and infrastructure.
8. Barboursville
Barboursville stands as one of West Virginia’s most prosperous communities, located in Cabell County near Huntington. The city attracts residents with its strong economic foundation and desirable living conditions.
Home prices in Barboursville exceed the state average of $169,115, reflecting the area’s desirability and economic strength. The housing market demonstrates consistent demand from buyers seeking quality neighborhoods.
The city benefits from its strategic location along major transportation corridors, providing easy access to employment centers and amenities. Barboursville’s proximity to Huntington offers residents urban conveniences while maintaining a smaller community atmosphere.
Local economic activity centers around retail, healthcare, and professional services. The presence of established businesses and shopping centers contributes to the city’s financial stability and job opportunities for residents.
Barboursville consistently ranks among West Virginia’s wealthiest cities due to its above-average household incomes and property values.
9. Vienna
Vienna stands as one of West Virginia’s most affluent communities. This city has established itself as a desirable location for wealthy residents seeking quality amenities and strong property values.
The community benefits from its strategic location in Wood County. Vienna offers residents access to excellent schools and well-maintained neighborhoods that attract higher-income families.
Property values in Vienna reflect the area’s prosperity. The city maintains a reputation for stable real estate markets and attractive residential developments.
Vienna’s economic foundation supports its wealthy population. Local businesses and proximity to regional employment centers contribute to the community’s financial stability.
The city provides quality municipal services and infrastructure. These amenities help maintain Vienna’s status as one of West Virginia’s richest places to live.
10. Westover
Westover stands as one of West Virginia’s most prosperous communities in Monongalia County. The city benefits from its proximity to Morgantown and West Virginia University, creating a stable economic foundation.
The community attracts professionals and families seeking quality housing options. Westover’s location provides easy access to employment centers while maintaining a residential atmosphere.
Property values in Westover reflect the area’s desirability among higher-income residents. The city offers well-maintained neighborhoods with modern amenities and infrastructure.
Westover’s economy benefits from the educational and healthcare sectors that dominate the regional job market. Many residents commute to nearby Morgantown for work in professional services.
The city provides quality municipal services and maintains strong community standards. Local amenities include parks, recreational facilities, and convenient shopping options that serve the affluent population.
11. Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown ranks among West Virginia’s most expensive real estate markets. The historic Jefferson County town boasts the highest average home value in the state at $462,368.
Property values in Shepherdstown have nearly doubled since 2011. This dramatic appreciation significantly outpaces the state average home price of $169,115.
The town’s location within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area contributes to its premium housing market. Its proximity to major employment centers in Virginia and Maryland drives demand.
Shepherdstown’s historic character adds to its appeal among affluent buyers. The town combines small-town charm with access to metropolitan amenities.
Real estate investors have found Shepherdstown particularly lucrative compared to other West Virginia markets. The sustained property value growth reflects strong underlying economic fundamentals in the region.
12. South Hills (Charleston)
South Hills stands as one of Charleston’s most prestigious neighborhoods. This upscale residential area attracts wealthy residents with its elevated location and scenic views.
The neighborhood features expansive historic manors positioned on hilltops. These properties offer panoramic views of downtown Charleston and command premium prices.
Home values in South Hills reflect its affluent status. The median home price reaches approximately $275,000, making it accessible to upper-middle income buyers.
Some of the area’s most luxurious properties fetch between $1 million and $2 million. These high-end homes contribute to South Hills’ reputation as a wealthy enclave.
The community offers low crime rates and proximity to Charleston’s amenities. Residents enjoy a pet-friendly environment with access to quality schools and services.
South Hills consistently ranks among West Virginia’s most desirable neighborhoods for affluent families.
13. Morgantown
Morgantown serves as a major economic center in West Virginia, anchored by West Virginia University. The city attracts professionals and faculty members who contribute to its higher median income levels.
Home prices in Morgantown exceed the state average of $169,115. This reflects strong demand from the university community and local professionals seeking quality housing options.
The presence of West Virginia University creates a stable economic foundation. Faculty, staff, and graduate students drive consistent demand for upscale housing and services throughout the area.
Morgantown offers urban amenities including a bustling downtown district and the Personal Rapid Transit system. These features enhance quality of life and property values compared to more rural West Virginia locations.
The city’s mountain views and walkable neighborhoods appeal to educated residents. This combination of natural beauty and urban convenience supports sustained property appreciation and economic growth.
14. Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry ranks as the second richest city in West Virginia. The town sits at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Its location places it directly next to the borders of Maryland and Virginia. This proximity to neighboring states contributes to its economic advantages.
Home prices in Harpers Ferry exceed the state average of $169,115 by a significant margin. The real estate market reflects the area’s desirability and affluence.
The town’s strategic position in the Eastern Panhandle creates opportunities for residents. Many benefit from access to employment markets in nearby states.
Harpers Ferry represents one of West Virginia’s distinct pockets of affluence. The community stands out against the state’s broader economic challenges through its sustained prosperity.
15. Inwood
Inwood sits in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, positioned strategically near the Maryland and Virginia borders. This small community benefits from its proximity to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.
The town attracts residents who work in nearby urban centers but prefer a quieter residential environment. Many commuters choose Inwood for its rural character combined with reasonable access to employment opportunities.
Housing costs in Inwood remain relatively affordable compared to neighboring jurisdictions in Maryland and Virginia. The area features a mix of newer subdivisions and established homes on larger lots.
Local amenities include small businesses and services that cater to the residential community. The town maintains a suburban feel while preserving some of the rural landscape characteristic of Jefferson County.
Inwood’s location provides residents with access to recreational opportunities in the surrounding countryside and nearby state facilities.
16. Charles Town East
Charles Town East represents one of West Virginia’s most affluent residential areas. The community benefits from its strategic location within Jefferson County, the state’s wealthiest county by per capita income.
Home values in the Charles Town area reach impressive levels. Typical home values exceed $397,000, with some properties valued at $399,633 in the most expensive ZIP codes.
The neighborhood’s prosperity stems largely from its proximity to Washington D.C. employment centers. Many residents commute to high-paying jobs in the metropolitan area while enjoying lower living costs in West Virginia.
Jefferson County maintains a strong economic foundation that supports Charles Town East’s affluent status. The area attracts professionals seeking suburban comfort with urban accessibility.
Charles Town East offers residents a blend of small-town charm and metropolitan convenience that appeals to high-income earners.
17. Williamsburg
Williamsburg sits in Greenbrier County and represents one of West Virginia’s smaller affluent communities. The town maintains a quiet residential character with well-maintained properties and established neighborhoods.
The median household income in Williamsburg exceeds the state average significantly. Property values reflect the community’s desirable location and quality housing stock.
Residents benefit from the town’s proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities. The area offers access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and scenic mountain views that attract affluent buyers.
Williamsburg’s low crime rates contribute to its appeal among families and retirees. The community maintains strong neighborhood cohesion and civic engagement.
Local amenities include quality dining establishments and small businesses that serve the resident population. The town’s location provides reasonable access to larger urban centers when needed.
Housing options range from historic homes to newer construction, with many properties featuring substantial acreage.
18. Falling Waters
Falling Waters ranks among West Virginia’s most expensive housing markets with a typical home value of $313,769. The community has experienced significant growth with a 45.9% increase in home values over five years.
Located in Berkeley County, Falling Waters sits near the Maryland border. The town provides residents access to the Winchester, VA-WV metropolitan area, expanding employment opportunities beyond state lines.
The median household income reflects the area’s affluent status, with property values consistently outperforming much of West Virginia. Home prices in Falling Waters exceed 77% of neighborhoods statewide.
Falling Waters benefits from its strategic location within the Hagerstown-Martinsburg metropolitan region. This positioning allows residents to access diverse job markets while maintaining a West Virginia residence.
The community of approximately 12,850 residents has a median age of 40.9 years. Recent data shows continued appreciation in the local real estate market with a 3.6% one-year price increase.
19. Mason
Mason County offers residents a blend of rural charm and economic opportunity in West Virginia’s western region. The county sits along the Ohio River, providing scenic waterfront properties and recreational access.
Point Pleasant serves as the county seat and largest community. The town features historic districts and established neighborhoods with moderate home values.
Agricultural land and river access contribute to Mason County’s appeal for families seeking affordable living. Manufacturing and retail sectors provide local employment opportunities.
Housing costs remain below state averages while offering quality options. Many properties feature larger lots and outdoor space compared to more urban areas.
The county’s location provides convenient access to Huntington and Charleston for additional amenities. Mason County attracts residents who value small-town living with reasonable commuting distances to larger employment centers.
20. Weirton Heights
Weirton Heights sits within Weirton, a city located in Hancock County in West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle. The neighborhood represents one of the more established residential areas in this former steel town.
The community benefits from its proximity to both Pennsylvania and Ohio borders. This strategic location provides residents with expanded employment and shopping opportunities across state lines.
Weirton Heights features a mix of housing styles typical of mid-20th century development. The neighborhood includes single-family homes on tree-lined streets with mature landscaping.
The area maintains access to Weirton’s amenities including parks and recreational facilities. Local schools serve the community through the Hancock County school system.
Residents appreciate the neighborhood’s quiet residential character while remaining connected to regional economic centers. The proximity to Pittsburgh’s metropolitan area adds to the location’s appeal for commuters.
21. Elm Grove
Elm Grove sits as a distinctive neighborhood within Wheeling, West Virginia. The area offers average-priced homes alongside numerous affordable rental properties.
This community maintains its unique character while remaining accessible to middle-income residents. The neighborhood’s residential market features a mix of housing options that cater to different economic levels.
Elm Grove’s location within Wheeling provides residents with urban conveniences while maintaining a quieter suburban atmosphere. The area has developed enough infrastructure and housing density that it could function as an independent community.
The neighborhood attracts residents seeking affordable housing options in the Wheeling area. Real estate listings remain active in the region, indicating ongoing interest from potential buyers and renters.
Elm Grove represents a more budget-conscious option compared to West Virginia’s wealthiest communities, yet still offers quality housing and neighborhood amenities.
22. Kenova
Kenova sits at the confluence of the Big Sandy and Ohio Rivers in Wayne County. The small city benefits from its strategic location along major waterways that historically supported commerce and transportation.
The community maintains a stable residential base with modest income levels compared to West Virginia’s wealthier enclaves. Kenova’s economy relies primarily on regional businesses and its proximity to larger employment centers.
Housing costs remain affordable, making the area accessible to middle-income families. The city offers basic amenities and services typical of small West Virginia communities.
Kenova’s riverfront location provides recreational opportunities along the water. The city maintains several parks and community facilities that serve local residents.
The area’s transportation access includes proximity to major highways connecting to larger regional centers. This positioning supports commuter access to employment opportunities in nearby cities.
23. South Charleston
South Charleston stands as one of West Virginia’s more prosperous communities in Kanawha County. The city benefits from its strategic location along the Kanawha River and proximity to Charleston, the state capital.
The area developed around chemical manufacturing and industrial operations. These industries brought stable employment opportunities and higher wages to residents over several decades.
South Charleston maintains a median household income above the state average. The city’s economic foundation includes both industrial jobs and service sector employment.
Residents enjoy access to quality housing options and established neighborhoods. The community features parks, recreational facilities, and convenient shopping areas.
The city’s location provides easy access to Charleston’s amenities while maintaining its own distinct character. South Charleston continues to attract families seeking stable communities with economic opportunities in the greater Charleston metropolitan area.
24. Clarksburg
Clarksburg sits in north-central West Virginia, serving as an important regional center for Harrison County. The city offers affordable real estate options with a diverse economic foundation.
The local economy relies heavily on manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors. This economic diversity provides stability for residents and supports steady growth.
Home prices in Clarksburg remain below the state average of $169,115. This makes the city an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing in West Virginia.
The city benefits from its strategic location and established infrastructure. Transportation access and proximity to regional amenities contribute to its appeal as a place to live.
Clarksburg’s economy continues to attract residents looking for reasonable living costs. The combination of diverse job opportunities and affordable housing creates a solid foundation for community growth.
25. Fairmont
Fairmont ranks as one of West Virginia’s more prosperous communities, securing the 16th position for most diverse places to live in the state. The city offers attractive opportunities for young professionals seeking career growth.
The median home price in Fairmont reaches $151,200, reflecting steady market conditions. Home appreciation has increased 9.5% over the past 12 months, indicating positive economic momentum.
Fairmont’s housing market aligns closely with West Virginia’s state average of $138,399. This pricing structure makes homeownership accessible while maintaining property value stability.
The city earned a livability score of 69 out of 100, ranking 53rd within West Virginia. Real estate market conditions currently favor buyers looking to invest in the area.
Fairmont’s economic foundation supports middle-class households through diverse employment opportunities. The city’s strategic location in north-central West Virginia contributes to its sustained growth and development prospects.
26. Ranson
Ranson stands as one of West Virginia’s more affluent communities in Jefferson County. The city benefits from its proximity to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, attracting residents who commute to higher-paying jobs.
Home values in Ranson exceed the state average of $169,115. This premium reflects the area’s desirability and economic stability compared to other West Virginia locations.
The city’s location in the Eastern Panhandle provides access to both urban amenities and rural landscapes. Residents enjoy a strategic position between major metropolitan centers while maintaining West Virginia’s lower cost of living.
Ranson’s neighborhoods represent some of the most sought-after residential areas in the region. The housing market demonstrates consistent demand from buyers seeking quality communities within commuting distance of major employment centers.
27. Vienna East
Vienna East represents one of the more affluent areas within Wood County’s Vienna community. This neighborhood benefits from its proximity to the Ohio River and access to regional employment centers.
The area attracts residents who work in nearby Parkersburg’s industrial sector and professional services. Vienna East maintains a suburban character with well-maintained single-family homes.
Property values in this section of Vienna tend to be higher than the municipal average. The neighborhood offers convenient access to shopping centers and medical facilities along Grand Central Avenue.
Vienna East residents benefit from the city’s overall economic stability and proximity to major transportation routes. The area provides a quieter residential environment while maintaining access to urban amenities.
The neighborhood’s location offers easy commutes to both Parkersburg and Marietta, Ohio across the river.
28. Moundsville
Moundsville sits along the Ohio River in Marshall County, West Virginia. The city serves as the county seat and has a population of approximately 8,000 residents.
The local economy relies on manufacturing, healthcare, and government services. Several industrial facilities operate in the area, providing stable employment opportunities for residents.
Housing costs in Moundsville remain affordable compared to national averages. The median home value reflects the city’s working-class character and rural setting.
The city features the historic Grave Creek Mound, one of the largest prehistoric burial mounds in North America. This archaeological site attracts visitors and contributes to local tourism.
Moundsville’s location provides easy access to both Wheeling and Pittsburgh markets. The Ohio River corridor offers transportation advantages for businesses and commuters seeking employment opportunities in larger metropolitan areas.
29. Hedgesville
Hedgesville stands out as one of West Virginia’s most expensive residential areas. The average home price reaches $312,000, significantly higher than many other locations across the state.
The community reports a median household income of $86,518. This income level reflects the area’s economic prosperity and attracts affluent residents seeking quality living standards.
Located in the Eastern Panhandle, Hedgesville offers both rural charm and modern conveniences. Residents can choose from historic village homes or newer subdivision properties.
The town maintains a small population of approximately 349 people. Despite its size, the area provides access to both private and public recreational facilities for residents.
Hedgesville’s proximity to the growing Eastern Panhandle region contributes to its appeal among higher-income families.
30. Glen Dale
Glen Dale stands out as one of West Virginia’s more affluent communities, with home prices exceeding the state average of $138,399. The city attracts residents seeking quality neighborhoods in a desirable location.
The local real estate market reflects strong demand from buyers who value the area’s amenities and location. Glen Dale’s housing costs indicate a community with solid economic foundations.
Residents benefit from living in what the market considers one of the better neighborhoods in the region. The city’s appeal stems from its combination of residential quality and community stability.
Glen Dale’s position among West Virginia’s wealthier areas demonstrates the economic diversity found throughout the state. The community continues to maintain its status as a sought-after place to live.
Key Factors That Influence Wealth in West Virginia
Wealth distribution in West Virginia depends on proximity to major employment centers, particularly the Washington D.C. metro area, along with access to stable industries like healthcare, education, and government services. Real estate values vary significantly based on location and commuter accessibility.
Economic Drivers and Industries
Professional services, healthcare, education, and government employment dominate wealthy West Virginia neighborhoods. These sectors provide stable, well-paying jobs that support higher household incomes.
The Eastern Panhandle benefits significantly from proximity to Washington D.C. employment centers. Many residents commute to federal jobs and private sector positions in the metro area while maintaining West Virginia residences.
Key employment sectors include:
- Government positions at federal, state, and local levels
- Healthcare systems serving regional populations
- Educational institutions including universities and school systems
- Professional services supporting business operations
Energy sector jobs in coal, natural gas, and emerging renewable energy also contribute to wealth in specific regions. However, these industries show more volatility compared to government and healthcare positions.
Education and Income Levels
Higher education levels correlate directly with increased household income across West Virginia’s wealthiest communities. Areas near universities and colleges typically show elevated income statistics.
College-educated professionals concentrate in cities like Morgantown, Charleston, and Eastern Panhandle communities. These residents often work in specialized fields requiring advanced degrees.
Educational attainment affects earning potential through:
- Access to professional and managerial positions
- Higher starting salaries and advancement opportunities
- Specialized skill sets in healthcare, education, and technology
Communities with strong school systems attract educated families, creating cycles of educational achievement and economic stability.
Real Estate Markets
Location, size, age, and condition determine home values throughout West Virginia. Properties in the Eastern Panhandle command premium prices due to Washington D.C. commuter demand.
Expensive home markets concentrate in specific areas:
- Charles Town and Bridgeport lead statewide rankings
- Eastern Panhandle communities benefit from metro proximity
- University towns maintain stable property values
Property taxes reflect local wealth levels, with higher-value areas supporting better municipal services and infrastructure. Commuter accessibility to major employment centers drives the strongest real estate appreciation rates across the state.
Quality of Life in West Virginia’s Wealthiest Communities
West Virginia’s affluent areas offer residents superior healthcare access and recreational amenities. These communities benefit from proximity to metropolitan areas and established infrastructure that supports higher living standards.
Healthcare and Amenities
Wealthy West Virginia communities provide residents with enhanced healthcare access and premium amenities. Charles Town and other Eastern Panhandle towns benefit from proximity to Washington D.C. metro healthcare systems.
These areas feature modern medical facilities and specialized care options. Residents can access both local providers and major medical centers in neighboring Virginia and Maryland.
Premium amenities in these communities include:
- Private country clubs and golf courses
- High-end shopping centers
- Quality dining establishments
- Professional services
Towns like Bridgeport and Hurricane offer residents well-maintained infrastructure. These communities invest in parks, recreational facilities, and community centers.
The proximity to larger metropolitan areas provides access to cultural venues and entertainment options. Residents enjoy both small-town community feel and urban conveniences.
Outdoor Recreation and Cultural Opportunities
West Virginia’s wealthiest communities capitalize on the state’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation potential. The Eastern Panhandle areas offer easy access to both mountain recreation and metropolitan cultural attractions.
Outdoor activities available include:
- Hiking and trail systems
- Golf courses and country clubs
- Water recreation on rivers and lakes
- Seasonal sports facilities
Charles Town features horse racing at Hollywood Casino. The area provides residents with entertainment and recreational gambling options.
Proximity to Washington D.C. and Baltimore expands cultural opportunities significantly. Residents can access world-class museums, theaters, and cultural events within driving distance.
Many affluent communities maintain their own recreational facilities. These include tennis courts, swimming pools, and organized sports leagues for residents of all ages.
