Largest cities in West Virginia

West Virginia, known for its beautiful mountains and strong sense of community, is a state that offers a high quality of life and abundant natural beauty. With a population of approximately 1.8 million, it ranks as the 38th most populated state in the U.S. West Virginia has experienced stable population growth, reflecting its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Pennsylvania to the north, Maryland and Virginia to the east, Kentucky to the southwest, and Ohio to the west, West Virginia offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 232 cities and towns.

Living in West Virginia provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and abundant natural beauty. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. West Virginia's economy is diverse, with strengths in energy, manufacturing, and tourism. The state's stable population growth supports a balanced and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in West Virginia, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights West Virginia cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Charleston Population: 47,273 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 82 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,501 Med. Household Income: $49,769

Huntington Population: 46,139 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 42 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,845 Med. Household Income: $33,012

Morgantown Population: 30,953 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 26 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,037 Med. Household Income: $42,474

Parkersburg Population: 29,732 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 30 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,523 Med. Household Income: $37,933

Wheeling Population: 27,046 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 36 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,963 Med. Household Income: $41,911

Weirton Population: 18,458 Livability Score: 68

Area Size: 47 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,022 Med. Household Income: $50,822

Fairmont Population: 18,443 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 22 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,144 Med. Household Income: $45,540

Martinsburg Population: 17,517 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 17 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,642 Med. Household Income: $44,363

Beckley Population: 16,240 Livability Score: 56

Area Size: 25 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,710 Med. Household Income: $42,972

Clarksburg Population: 15,743 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 25 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,621 Med. Household Income: $41,226

Full list of the largest cities in West Virginia

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Charleston	47,273	82	$49,769	82
2	Huntington	46,139	42	$33,012	81
3	Morgantown	30,953	26	$42,474	83
4	Parkersburg	29,732	30	$37,933	71
5	Wheeling	27,046	36	$41,911	67
6	Weirton	18,458	47	$50,822	68
7	Fairmont	18,443	22	$45,540	72
8	Martinsburg	17,517	17	$44,363	73
9	Beckley	16,240	25	$42,972	56
10	Clarksburg	15,743	25	$41,226	82
11	Teays Valley	13,729	19	$88,865	77
12	South Charleston	12,461	20	$51,021	70
13	Vienna	10,261	10	$55,181	74
14	St. Albans	10,078	9	$50,969	68
15	Bluefield	9,776	23	$35,650	53
16	Cheat Lake	9,559	37	$95,450	72
17	Cross Lanes	9,517	17	$53,813	65
18	Bridgeport	8,675	28	$84,295	82
19	Moundsville	8,356	8	$33,399	66
20	Oak Hill	8,249	25	$43,083	61
21	Dunbar	7,166	7	$39,688	70
22	Elkins	7,017	9	$38,910	75
23	Pea Ridge	6,854	6	$47,321	80
24	Nitro	6,498	14	$43,564	66
25	Brookhaven	6,293	24	$69,556	65
26	Hurricane	6,225	10	$62,308	70
27	Charles Town	5,985	15	$77,552	75
28	Princeton	5,740	8	$41,925	71
29	Buckhannon	5,473	8	$42,287	73
30	Ranson	5,217	21	$69,544	66
31	New Martinsville	5,123	7	$45,303	64
32	Grafton	5,035	10	$34,555	68

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in West Virginia, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

Well Below nat. avg.
Below nat. avg.
Similar to nat. avg.
Above nat. avg.
Well above nat. avg.

The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.