What to know when moving to Morgantown, WV
Morgantown at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area with 44.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree and 40.3% renting.
- The Major Draw:
- The median household income is $62,173, providing a solid financial base for residents.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 16.5%, economic challenges do exist.
- Commute:
- Only 1.3% of commuters use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $914 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Morgantown features a population of about 19,640, with a strong educational presence thanks to West Virginia University. The community is primarily made up of renters, with 40.3% of residents leasing their homes. The area has a median gross rent of $914, making it relatively affordable compared to many urban centers.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a high reliance on public transit, as only 1.3% of the population commutes this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $914, while the median home value stands at $213,000.
- 44.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to a well-educated community.
- The poverty rate is 16.5%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Renter percentage is at 40.3%, showing a significant portion of the population rents.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In West Virginia, the crime rates show a declining trend over recent years.
- Violent crime: The state annual rate is 257.9 per 100,000, which is 20.7% lower than the national rate.
- Property crime: The state annual rate is 1,084.4 per 100,000, which is 29.9% lower than the national average.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 26.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for West Virginia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Morgantown has access to a variety of educational institutions, primarily in Monongalia County.
- Postsecondary institutions: 7 in the area.
- Notable institutions include West Virginia University and Monongalia County Technical Education Center.
- Nearby Fairmont State University in Marion County also adds to higher education options.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Morgantown experiences an average annual precipitation of 45.1 inches, with 109 rainy days each year. Winters are mild with only about 0.4 inches of snow annually.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Palatine Park - 4.6 stars from 875 reviews
- Monongalia County Ballpark - 4.7 stars from 762 reviews
- Pricketts Fort State Park - 4.7 stars from 714 reviews
- Mylan Park - 4.4 stars from 714 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.