8 Best Places To Retire In West Virginia
West Virginia has rolling hills, peaceful rivers, and spectacular Appalachian scenery. Nicknamed the "Mountain State," it offers deep cultural and historical interest given the history of coal mining, railroads, and battles during the Civil War. For retirees, its peaceful towns provide a welcoming environment, affordable livelihood, and access to healthcare facilities for enjoying the golden years. If you are looking for outdoor adventures or quiet community living, these towns in West Virginia have it all.
Shepherdstown
Retiring in Shepherdstown promises a quiet yet active lifestyle on the beautiful Potomac River. This historic town is safe and friendly. The town is full of interesting activities for retirees, from programs with the Shepherdstown Area Independent Living (SAIL) group, which conducts wellness workshops, cultural events, and social activities specifically tailored for retirees.
Quality healthcare is available from the WVU Medicine Shepherdstown Medical Office Building, which provides primary and specialty care and has additional facilities in Martinsburg. For continuing care, the Canterbury Center offers short-term rehabilitation and long-term care.
Lewisburg
This culturally enriched town is ideal for seniors who want to lead an active lifestyle. Historic downtown Lewisburg features art galleries, quaint cafes, and boutique shops that offer plenty of leisurely activities. The median home value is about $271,801, making the place affordable for retirees. In the Shepherd's Center of Greenbrier Valley, active opportunities abound for seniors, such as "Adventures in Learning," book clubs, exercise classes, and transportation services.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is a haven for retirees and has been termed America's first spa town. The surroundings are serene, with a small-town atmosphere charm. The mineral springs and wellness centers dotting the town are famous for their relaxation and health-promoting features among seniors. War Memorial Hospital assures access to responsible medical care.
Berkeley Springs is home to Cacapon Resort State Park, which offers walking trails and golfing. The Senior Life Services of Morgan County is a facility that provides activities, socialization, trips, and events for seniors. Finally, the Berkeley Springs Farmer's Market offers fresh produce and local products any time of the year.
Buckhannon
Buckhannon is a town with a strong sense of community and access to quality healthcare. St. Joseph's Hospital provides excellent healthcare services to the community. Upshur County Senior Center Provides an active lifestyle through several activities such as exercise, arts, and socialization among its members.
Buckhannon also has a great downtown with cafes, antique shops, and parks. For the outdoorsy person, there is Upshur County Recreational Park, which includes various recreational facility resources. In addition, the town has several community events, such as the annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival, that create a source of entertainment and interaction among its residents.
Summersville
This vibrant town is a nature lover's retreat for retirees. Summersville Lake offers quiet boating and fishing, while the nearby Gauley River offers easy walking trails and picnic spots. Seniors have health care access with Summersville Regional Medical Center, which offers inpatient care, specialty care, general surgery, and 24-hour emergency access. Long-term care is supplemented by a 24/7 staff in the hospital's Extended Care Facility, supported by the full capabilities of the medical center.
Local services specific to supporting older adults include the Nicholas Community Action Partnership, which provides in-home services, respite care, transportation, and nutrition services to seniors in the area.
Elkins
Elkins, nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, is an ideal destination for outdoor and nature-loving retirees who value community involvement. The Monongahela National Forest offers endless opportunities for hiking and bird-watching on various walking paths and scenic drives.
For active seniors, the Elkins-Randolph County Senior Center provides weekly physical aerobics classes, daily meals, and organized day trips, promoting a healthy and lively retirement. Cultural enrichment is available through the Augusta Heritage Center, which hosts workshops, dances, and crafts throughout the year. Living in Elkins is affordable, with a median home value of about $165,463, making it accessible for retirees. The Davis Medical Center ensures peace of mind with its wide-ranging healthcare services.
Point Pleasant
The quiet riverside city of Point Pleasant is an affordable and friendly place for retirees. The city hosts unique community events, such as the Mothman Festival, which helps retirees get involved with the local community. Pleasant Valley Hospital caters to all health needs with various medical and well-being programs. The Gene Salem Senior Center offers activities, fitness classes, hobby groups, and social functions like pool tournaments and song evenings, making it an excellent outlet for retirees.
Fayetteville
In the heart of West Virginia, Fayetteville is a great community for active retirees who love outdoor adventures and a close-knit community. But its proximity to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve gives retirees access to beautiful trails, easy rafting opportunities, and stunning views nature lover's haven.
Downtown is charming and very walkable, with several small cafes and locally owned shops where you can spend quiet time or interact socially.
Health services are readily available, including health facility centers like Fayetteville Healthcare Center, a 60-bed Medicare and Medicaid-certified skilled nursing facility.
The Takeaway
Affordability, natural beauty, and small-town community support make the small towns of West Virginia desirable for retirees. From the cultural vibrancy of Lewisburg to the wellness focus of Berkeley Springs, each town has its strengths that make for a great quality of life for seniors. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Fayetteville and Summersville, while those looking for a quiet, community-oriented way of life will find a perfect fit in Buckhannon or Point Pleasant. With quality healthcare, seniors' programs, and affordable living, these towns will provide comfort, security, and connection for retirees who want to enjoy their golden years.
