AVOID Moving to West Virginia - UNLESS you can handle these 5 things
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- čas přidán 22. 06. 2024
- Rex Petrey
Virginia & West Virginia Realtor
VA# 0225259092 WVS220302365
Pearson Smith Realty
43777 Central Station Dr #390, Ashburn, VA 20147
122 N Charles St, Charles Town, WV 25414
Supervising Broker: Chris Boris
00:00 Introduction
00:25 West Virginia Economy
02:19 West Virginia Healthcare
03:24 West Virginia Houses
04:57 West Virginia Poverty Rate
06:54 West Virginia Government Services
08:25 Conclusion + Text Me for More!
I was born and raised in Manassas Va, I'm still a Firefighter/Paramedic there. I bought a beautiful home in Berkeley Springs WV in 2018. My commute is an hour and twenty minutes and totally worth it. Manassas/Prince William County used to be a wonderful small town/County when I was growing up. These days it's overcrowded, dirty, violent and not a place where most people can afford to buy a home. For my short commute I have a salary three times the average for WV and I live in a beautiful quiet, safe state. BTW the people in WV are kind,friendly people, don't let anyone tell you differently.
It's moving out to WV now. Leesburgification, as I call it. Happened to Bowie, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Frederick, Baltimore area, Chantilly, etc. List goes on. So people move to escape it, and in turn it changes to what they left. Local poor get priced out. I grew up in Lancaster and it's unrecognizable.
Yep I live in your area as well and I also work in EMS. I can make more money at Sheetz than I can saving lives
Yeah Berkeley springs is nice for sure but that's the exception hardly the rule
West Virginia is like anywhere else, there’s good and bad wherever you go. It’s also about personal preference and what the situation is for an individual.
I love Berkeley Springs but was a little far. I work in Urbana Frederick Md. I am building a house in Jefferson County. The house is 100k cheaper than a house that is 5 min away in Brunswick Md.
The land tax is cheaper. Unlike Maryland, there's no toilet tax. You get more land for your buck. Crime will be pretty close to Rock Bottom. If SHTF you will not find a better place. You have the constitutional right to carry a concealed firearm. Fireworks are no problem in this state. The people are typically non-aggressive, unlike other states.
In your opinion what areas of WV are ideal for shtf and why are they?
What are your thoughts on the middle around Summerville and Fayetteville compared to the Fairmont Morgantown area?
@@regularguyprepper2993 I live in the middle of the state. As long as you stay out of the big cities like Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown etc., It’s a great place to live; provided employment is not an issue. Land is still relatively affordable. The mountains are less steep, the farther west in the state you go. I live in the most heavily forested county in the state and Walmart is still 20min away. Property taxes are not high, but have been rising steadily; like most everywhere else. Crime in the rural areas is not too bad, most everyone has a gun to defend their property. I grew up in a big city and bought a farm here over 20 years ago, and these are some of the finest folks I’ve known in my life. Neighbors still care about and support each other, just don’t expect a pizza delivered lol. I have never regretted moving here; hope this helps. Have a blessed day 🙂
Dude i think you have no ucking clue what your talking about. I'm born and raised Maryland(Baltimore and surrounding areas) and most of my family originate from central wva. Yes land is cheaper not much of ANYTHING ELSE IS. Gas, taxes, :-except property- literally nearly everything else is way more expensive. Health care in most areas nearly non existent. Crime? Tons of crime and super bad drug problems esp pills. And if you think your safe there when shtf your delusional. Your not that safe there now and if things got worse so would wva. If that's possible. There's lots of nice people there but tons of issue people too.
@@sourwes0001 thanks that's great feedback. I'm actually watching these videos because Everytime I drive through WV I like it more and more. It "feels right" like I'm being called to it.
I absolutely think we're heading for disaster and SHTF so I'm actively looking to move my family to someplace quieter and safer in the hopes of setting up a mini homestead to try and be a little more self sufficient in a better more mild climate surrounded by good people.
The hwy 19 corridor in central WV seems like a decent area but I haven't ventured too far off it yet.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Depending on your employment or commute time being relevant, Webster County area maybe of interest to you. I’m from there but currently residing in Upshur County.
3 people who arent trustworthy...1. Lawyers 2. Car salesmen. 3. Real estate "agents"...
👍Maybe add “health care professionals” and “experts” in anything.
Politicians should be added to the list. Actually, most government workers. 🤢
“Journalists”
Exactly 👍
Regardless of what problems we have I have very deep strong roots here and WILL NEVER live anywhere else. Born, raised and staying.
It's a great place to live and raise kids, but some people want to down it and probably never been here to experience the beauty of this state. If low taxes, crime, and land/home prices isn't your thing stay in the sepsis pool you call a city, with high crime, drugs, gangs, and no rights to own a gun.
@@jimssurvival4994 You can't tell from this video you bellend. FYI, it you're a realtor in WV you should probably be selling the state, not telling everyone why it sucks.
I love my WV Hills, but I don't want the word to get out what a paradise it is! So, my first comment was being sarcastic!, If anyone trashes my beloved WV, they will hear from me!
@@1WVaMomma me too
I am in Southern part of the state.
I'm from NJ. I spent a week riding a motorcycle in WV. I talked to people young and old and I did not find one person who said they didn't love WV. They all said they would not live any other place.
It’s true man, I moved here sight unseen. Best decision I’ve made, place is off the hook! God willing I’ll be buried here. 100% head over heels in love with West V, the people and its lands are second to none.
I live here and have lived here most of my life unfortunately. I don't love it and there are many other places I'd live. I just feel stuck.
They're the most loyal to their land out of anywhere else I swear. True salt of the earth people.
@@SmellyMellyization People that are moving here have money falling out of there ass. They have no idea what life long local people go through to make ends meet. I'm 43 and I'm really starting to hate this place.
@@slapnutzracing2152 Personally speaking, I was poor in a bad blue state. Right infringement, ceaseless fees and taxes, can’t exercise most freedoms unless you can pay to play. Yes, I have no idea what the poor folk in WV go thru to make ends meet, other than what history’s tells us. But I sure as hell can tell you about making ends meet as a poor person in the commie nation i fled. Being lower class earner it took 3+ years of sacrifice and work to save and plan our escape. We didn’t have “money falling out of our asses” to just relocate. What I found was pure mountain magic in a small town community I’ve fallen in love with and enjoy being a part of. It hurts my heart when folks bag on WV. Everyone I knew thought I was crazy, WV is the worst, rednecks, hillbillies, hicks, inbred mofos..I got all the stereo types. So far I haven’t found or met any of them! There are 49 other states bro, at least one of them gotta be better than WV for ya’! I made a space for one on r the left coast, have at it! For anyone wondering, no I did NOT bring any bs baggage with me, WV is free and wonderful just the way it is. WV don’t need any blue state bs screwing up what’s here. I came as refugee, not prophet. Red thru and thru.
As someone who lives in this region, let me say this: Yes it’s horrible. Stay out. You don’t want to come here. You’ll deeply regret being here. There is no reason to be here. Stay away.
I absolutely agree! This is a terrible place to live. All people who do not currently reside here should do the smart thing and stay away.
Trying to hide your paradise aren't you? :)
@@jordangouveia1863 You caught us. 😆
Hillbillies, rednecks, heat, swamp gas, Sasquatch, bugs, humidity, hurricanes, earthquakes, drugs, thugs and poverty, the list is long and ongoing. It’s worse than you think! Stay away! Say a prayer for those of us stuck here!
Can't find a decent soy latte with Madagascar vanilla!! Guns everywhere!! People eating meat!! Scary woods full of wild animals!! Stay in you cities where you know your barista.
I love WV. If you like people who wave when you drive by and open a door for you...this is your spot. WV people mind there business for the most part but are normally there for a helping hand if toy end up in a tight apot...you get stuck in a ditch , someone will pull you out. If your struggling, normally someone will step up for a helping hand. We live and let live...just don't push your beliefs on us. We're not snobby. We don't care if you smoke off brands, we don't care what you do if you keep your crap in your own yard and Don't make your problem , our problem. Want to live in peace? Want to be left alone? WV is for you.
That's the wv I grew up in but now a day the neighbors at nosey rude and they act like the boss of a H.O.A. I'm in the eastern panhandle and it's pretty much a suburb of D.C. anymore.
Even if your black?? 😂 (serious question)
I was born in the Mountain State Memorial Hospital. I've been away for a few decades but I'm returning in about a week to make settlement on a house near Rainelle, about 17 miles from where I grew up. I'm retired now so I don't have to worry about a job. I'm currently living in the Philippines so WV will definitely be a step up. If you were born in the Mountain State there is something that beckons you back. Montani Semper Liberi! Take me home country roads.
Welcome home brother!
@@brookscarney Thanks, I made it!
I was born in the same hospital!
Going to do the same thing . Was a electrician for20 yrs now retired returning to my home town Wheeling.
I moved to West Virginia from Florida and I don't regret it. I love it
Born and raised in fl thinking about moving to wv too. Just nervous about the economic state there.
@@Lotives Truthfully it hasn't been bad I'm close to Virginia and Maryland to look for jobs. I think with anything just check out the jobs etc and see if this is right for you. I personally love this state.
I live in Miami i want to move to West Virginia myself.
@@gypsytheepolequeenshow I love it here. It doesn't usually hit 100, so doesn't get hot like in Florida and I love the mountains
WV is beautiful and I’m from the mountains (Roanoke, VA) but have been living in central NC for the past 20 years. The COL here in NC has skyrocketed in the last few years so I’d definitely consider retiring somewhere in the WV mountains. Probably should start looking for a place. Bluefield seems like a likely first choice
You’re one of the best realtors on CZcams in terms of your speaking ability. All of these depressing statistics would make you think that West Virginians are unfriendly people, but I have found them to be more friendly than people in states like Washington and Oregon.
I wish I made $48000 a year.
Do you live in West Virginia?
If you made that and lived in WV, you'd be in the top 10% of the population.
@@the_gilded_age_phoenix8717
You’re joking right? Is it really that low? How comfortable is it to live with that salary range?
@@KyleHong I'm as serious as a heart attack. You could live an upper middle class lifestyle in WV with that much money. Of course, this depends on what part of the state you choose to settle in. Jefferson and Berkeley counties have gotten more pricey because of their proximity to DC.
@@the_gilded_age_phoenix8717 Wow. Thanks for that info.
I am in Nashville TN, I moved to an area in TN with a 28% poverty rate, best place I have ever lived, great kind people, always somebody that needs help, churches serve so many people in so many ways. I have just opened my car hood at a gas station and had people ask me if I needed help ? I never experienced that in the high end neighborhoods I have lived in.
As far as drugs, they are in every neighborhood, both rich and poor.
I have had similar experiences as well and that’s one of the reasons I plan to move to WV in the next few years. The sense of community and neighborliness is something I rarely felt when living in larger cities. Check out our most recent video where we discuss a few of the many reasons so many people ARE moving to the wonderful state of WV.
czcams.com/video/cMoLN5JgsaA/video.html
Rex, you have a lot to learn about West Virginia. I am a fifth generation Virginian/ West Virginian with a master’s plus. All earned in West Virginia. Relying on Federal statistics and your slight Virginia and Eastern Panhandle bias doesn’t tell the whole story. Preston County, for example, and not far from you has a tremendously practical vocational education program. A good student can graduate from high school with an electrician’s license and earn more than most college grads for an entire career. There are many other options. West Virginia had a broadband deployment plan in place and everywhere I go I see fiber optic cable being strung. As you probably realize this will eventually allow working remotely and increasing property values.
We also plan on moving to west virginia over the next few years. I subscribed 😉 thank you for the videos
Addiction and drugs do not discriminate.
Giving strong consideration to N-ville region due to high ratings for care at Vanderbilt med center…As a retired guy it looks like a good place to find regular jam sessions with other pickers as well.. 😉….
The only realtor i have subscribed to because the presentation didn't feel like a sales pitch. Just facts and no fake smiles
I appreciate that!
Unless you're bringing your job with you, don't move here. Unless you're in good health, don't live here (worst healthcare I've ever seen). Unless your kids are grown or you're homeschooling them, don't live here. Unless you can accept how these people live, don't move here. It's an aging, poor population with less education than most states. Things are not going to get better as anyone with a future leaves for the city. Huntington and Charleston are both pretty miserable to live in and there's really very little reason to go into them outside of having hospitals. All the houses are old or trailers. I had to remodel mine to make it livable. There's no money here so if you think you'll come in and start a business or restaurant I highly suggest you think twice. I love it here but it's truly not for everyone. In fact, it's not for most people. I've traveled all over the state for work and the people are wonderful but there are significant headwinds and will be for a long time.
I’m sorry you feel that way. I love where I live. Local school scores on national level every year. I don’t know anyone who want to better themselves and couldn’t. Opportunity is what you make of it. I’d rather make 50 in WV than 100 in NYC. It’s all relative.
The reason WV is having a hard time attracting businesses is the state income tax and business regulations as well as other taxes. For example you have to pay taxes on cars you already own every year. Though Obama pretty much impoverished the state so the citizens tend to vote Republican it is a much bluer state than most outsiders realize. Poverty is subjective. A lot of people around here do pretty well working off the books buying and selling washers, dryers, riding mowers etc. A lot of people around here own side by sides and they aren't cheap. I moved here from South Florida a year ago and it was one of the best things I've ever done. Here in the mid-Ohio valley there are festivals and parades all the time and the people are just amazing. But the bottom line is WV is country living and you have to know how to live in the country to succeed here. If you can't fix a bicycle this state is not for you.
Sing them praises brotha'!
I love West Virginia, thru and thru!
It should stay exactly like it is now, wild and free.
Freedom is disappearing in many places in our country.
🇺🇸 is alive and well in West V, I assure you.
Come as refugee, not a prophet!
UPDATE 2023: Gov. Jim Justice signed a bill (HB 2526) reduce Income Tax and a Credit for Property Taxes Paid.
~ Tax Rate Cut: State Income Tax rate in reduced for the 2023 tax year, as of January 01, 2023.
~ Motor Vehicle Tax Credit: On January 01, 2024, taxpayers can claim a Motor Vehicle Property Tax Adjustment Credit for eligible vehicles, with the first credit claimable on the 2024 tax return filed in 2025.
~ To qualify, you must file and pay personal property taxes timely, with specific deadlines for each half of the assessment.
~ Rebate for Non-Filers: Taxpayers not required to file a WV income tax return can claim a rebate for their Motor Vehicle property taxes paid in early 2025. For more detailed information, taxpayers should consult the official guidance and contact their County Assessor.
Tax Rate Table:
Not over $10,000 2.36% of taxable income
$10,001 - $24,999 $236 plus 3.15% of the excess over $10,000
$25,001 - $39,999 $708.50 plus 3.54% of excess over $25,000
$40,001 - $59,999 $1,239.50 plus 4.72% of excess over $40,000
$60,000 above $2,183.50 plus 5.12% of excess over $60,000
source: West Virginia Tax - 2023 Income Tax Rate Cut and Property Tax Rebate (tax.wv.gov/Individuals/Pages/PersonalIncomeTaxReductionBill.aspx).
@@lindavicknair3593 Unfortunately it won't be enough. The tax culture in WV has to change.
obama impoverished the state, 🤣it was doing great up until 2008 that's when things went down the Appalachian hill. Every bad thing you mention or all the problems are the "gummits" fault taxes etc., even though car taxes exist in most states. There are a lot of states with high taxes that have no problem with growth i.e. California there GDP by itself is that of a large country.
I appreciate your honesty and great information.
Thanks for watching!
To me this whole video sounds like opportunity opportunity opportunity
Jiji that’s right
And you'd be correct.
I'm moving to West Virginia in a few weeks. House closes on October 10th.
@@skytrip5273 Cool what town did you pick? Too bad you missed the Moth Man Festival.
@@thetrumpnewsnetwork7503 A small area of 277 people called Carolina WV.
I just moved to WV recently (Martinsburg, in the Easter Panhandle area) and it's pretty good with a growing town and decent amount of jobs. The housing market is cheaper than a lot of other areas (PA, MD) and the taxes aren't bad here either. Plus, it's also surprising at how Berkley County is getting wired up with fiber infrastructure and fiber internet will be available everywhere.
I think WV can make a turnaround, but it'll take a while, but people moving/living here seem to enjoy it due to a more laid back area and loads of nature.
I hate to break it to you buddy. But neither panhandle is much about WV. The attitudes and personalities in those areas are exactly like the surrounding areas of DC, Maryland, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. You know. Arrogant. Overbearing. Unfriendly. And especially in the eastern panhandle, it's basically been bought up by wealthy out of state people to begin with. More power to you. I wish all good things for you. But you're in WV by name only.
@@bradlane3662 So true !!!
And factories more coming to your area
Me and wife are planning on retiring in the Martinsburg area
@@bradlane3662 I’m from Montgomery Co Maryland and I am not Arrogant, Overbearing nor Unfriendly. All I can say is I actually hate it here so there will be one less of “Us people” to invade the not so great place
I have lived in Charleston and foresee myself taking residence here for quite a while. It's beautiful and there's plenty of things to do as far as outdoor recreation and sightseeing. It has a certain knack of offering freedoms you can't get anywhere else in the country (I like the off-road vehicle friendliness of my little town). If I can expound on what the presenter is saying- this state is not good if you are looking to find a 9-5 full-time and live in an apartment or rent a house and hope to advance in customer service or retail. This state is very good if you have a skilled position (i.e. Bachelor's degree) and you can telecommute to positions in other areas of the country.
Thank you for commenting! I’m thinking about moving there too. I work remotely hoping to be able to afford living alone. I can’t in FL.
@@Aniexo_ you should definitely research it. It's a hidden gem, for sure. I figure as far as living expenses go, you should realistically be able to make at least $2500 monthly, to live comfortably. Living comfortably means you own at least one car, have a mortgage, and can afford your daily living expenses like food and power. For me, as a minimalist, that's pretty easy to come by.
@@WhoBeSilly okay I make that and work remotely. Thank you
@@Aniexo_Hey, I’m in AL, so if you ever take a road trip up there give me a shout. 😊I can drive up in my own car if you’re looking to check out a few cities up there, and want someone to tour with. 😊
@@theraptureisnearbelieveinj448 that’s sounds fun but my job doesn’t allow me to move to AL.
Thank you. Great and informative video!
You are certainly the kind of realtor I'd hope to employ before considering moving to WV. A very well-done video!
Wow! Thank you, really appreciate the compliment ! Should you decide to move out this way I’d be happy to help.
He's wrong, I don't know what he has against W.VA but it's a great place to live and raise children.
@@dennisreed3382 nothing against WV! This is just the “Cons” video in a two part series of Pros and Cons. I’m planning to move to Jefferson County with my wife and kids in the next year or so.
Here’s the Pros video.
czcams.com/video/cMoLN5JgsaA/video.htmlsi=ipN7cnQSHJU0J_Il
You'd be the last person I'd want to sell a property in WV. I'm from Oklahoma but I love WV. It's beautiful and the people are just like us Okies. Friendly and willing to do anything to help a neighbor. I fell in love with the place after visiting a few times. Yes the economy is tough, I get that. And yes I know I'm leaving a great state with a strong economy that's great for retired people, like my wife is and I am. But I think a proper home could be found in a lovely place near a decent size town. Not a big city, a non urban city.
You, as a realtor, should have a ton of great things to say about a state that I can see and I don't even live there. You are a reason the place can't grow. You should be promoting the positives and making the area ripe for people to move to. And when people come to live and retire, they bring money and soon business growth.
Get on the train buddy, or lay down on the tracks. WV is great and you need to tell it and not do the same lame thing about the coal mines. I'm from SE Ok and that's all we had till oil.
Wow, Im really impressed that you, as a realtor, are being so honest about WV. I was considering WV as a retirement relocation a few years ago but very hard to leave my son and his family here in NY but thanks excellent vid.
I appreciate that!
Just bring them with you! 🤣
@@movingtovawv OMG, would I love that!!
I was actually thinking of moving there soon. Thanks for your video.
It may seem backwards but the majority of people who have reached out to me for help finding their next home in WV called after watching this video. Also check out the follow up to this video that goes over some of the reasons many people ARE moving to WV.
czcams.com/video/cMoLN5JgsaA/video.htmlsi=bmEIt-BUaGqugaco
Thank you for being honest about what you have and what experienced
I appreciate your information!
No problem! Let me know if I can ever help with more specifics
Ouch Rex! I don’t disagree with your assessment, but there are some great things about WV, like the affordable housing, lower cost of living, and the natural surroundings. My family and I moved here over 3 years ago and it’s been an adventure.
Hey John! It’s definitely not my final summation of WV at all. I do regret separating the pros video from the cons video on WV, but hope you find the time to take a look at some of my other videos!
SHUT UP! We don't want Yankasses buying stuff up.
WEST VIRGINIA IS HAUNTED STAY OUT
I'm moving out there in a few weeks. House closes on the 10th.
@@skytrip5273 awesome! Where you moving to?
@@movingtovawv A small town south west of Morgantown called Carolina.
This is great information, thank for sharing.
Thank you. Excellent information 👍
Glad it was helpful!
Your assessment is spot on. I have lived my entire 59 years in WV and agree with you on all 5 points. The job market here is beyond terrible and seems to get worse every year. Glad I am about t0 exit the work force into retirement soon.
If you don’t mind me asking what is your profession?
Sounds like you have no ambition.
I still have ambition left, it just doesn't involve work or West Virginia.@@dennisreed3382
How is planning for retirement no ambition after a lifetime or working?@@dennisreed3382
What job did you do?
There's a saying in West Virginia... You can move to West Virginia but you can't move from West Virginia...
point is... no one is standing in line to buy your house and the low price of housing means you can't afford
anything else where when you decide to leave...
High poverty and drug use means very high crime levels.
If something could be done about the health care and crime WV could become a retirement state. Retirees don't necessarily need jobs but require people to be employed to help take care of them. WV could start building over 55 communities and attract retirees and the new house building could start more jobs in the state.
I live and work in NC but i have a cute little hideaway in Quinwood WV which has some beautiful and untouched areas that are QUIET as a library and safe too
Moving in bud
Honest realtor
Thank you
You don't pull any punches. Good for you. Knowledge is power.
Thanks, I think so too!
GREAT VIDEO!
If this guy doesn’t like WV don’t let the door hit you when you leave.
I live here, great state I like it but it has its problems 😢. Thanks for speaking about this beautiful state ❤
Stay out of Charleston and some of those deep southern coal counties and you'll be alright.
Look at Google Earth and see what all the cheap strip mining is doing to the state. A disaster of a hell hole.
moving out of colo after 30+ years
looking at wv as a place to retire to
pro 2A
anti illegal immigration
on medicare now
low raw land prices
great topo for livestock/ crop farming
rain and on site water resources
leave me alone, but willing to help neighbor, attitude
as a florida born boy, all the above is appealing.
He’s right. I moved to West Virginia, five years ago and very much wish I could return to northern Virginia. I have chronic illnesses and all my doctors are in Virginia which is very inconvenient. My grandchildren schools were sub par. My daughter who supports this family has always worked in Virginia and still does.
Welcome to WV. not. It's called WV crud. Starts when you move here & doesn't end
I am building a home Ranson WV and new build is booming. The price of my house is 100k less same build in Brunswick Md which is 5 miles away. This 100k difference allows me to also buy a rental townhome in same community. I believe in this will be a real investment in next 10 years. The downside is I drive 35 min to work with no traffic to Urbana. I still grocery shop at Costco and Super Walmart in Frederick Md.
Gambling everywhere is predatory behavior by the state government that promotes in every community suffering from poverty already. Gambling should be federally zoned for los Vegas and Atlantic City. It something well to do people do on a vacation that also comes with entertainment and a higher pay out rate. It’s a ritch persons game. Poor people shouldn’t be gambling.
You forgot to mention the turnpike $24.00 for a round trip on a road that is 80 miles is that crazy or what. Gangsters.
How nice. If I was buying, I'd choose this agent for honesty. Thank you
I drove through WV in a very rural area to just so I could drive on the winding roads and see the beautiful mountain scenery. I stopped half way to get some gas and asked the store clerk how she broke her arm. She calmly told me, "Oh, I punched a wall".
@jaquesrabit8400 People are psy chos everywhere...even in the deep cuntry.
😮😢
Classic!! LOL
Meth is a hell of a drug.
@@slapnutzracing2152 😅
Nothing you said was incorrect, I moved to the Panhandle from another state and lived there for over 25 years. I wish I had known some of these things before moving there, it wouldn't have stopped me from moving but it would've sure made the learning curve easier. I now live in the Midwest, I could use a "things you should know" for THIS area, too, haha! The people who are acting butthurt about this video aren't watching it in the context of it's purpose: to educate people who are relocating. I've spoken to quite a few people who were considering moving to WV because of work transfer and these were the kinds of things they needed to know especially if there's children involved. Great video.
Wow thanks for that comment! Glad you see it wasn’t meant to bash but just give people the considerations I’d want to have if I was moving there with three kids.
Glad you’re enjoying the Midwest!
West Virginia has lots of colleges per capita...the 21 percent of residents having college degreed doesn't reflect this, because people leave the state once they get a degree because of the opportunity to work with that degree in the state are low...
Correct- that brain drain is real. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few years in regard to that. I think a lot of people go to WV for school for the competitive tuition rates too
Anyone who wants to go to university can. Of course, the real value of most university degrees is questionable.
My son is going to Shepherds town University which is 10 min from my house in Ranson. The price of tuition is much cheaper UMD. I can pay for so he doesn’t have to get a loan.
There is some of the nicest people u ever want to meet in West Virginia
You should know that many big businesses also consider populations that are "too educated" a red flag as well. States that have very high average education rates also face issues with big companies. These companies want workers that only educated to a certain level. Higher levels of education also equate to employees that recognize their own value and also are more likely to stand up against improper or unethical treatment. As someone who was a manager for one of Ametica's biggest players that has numerous stores in WV, the higher-ups made it clear that "the too smart for our business types" were not wanted. When I questioned this I was told that the smarter they are the more likely they are to stand up for themselves if they were being mistreated or thought they were being mistreated. I flat out Saud that if you don't mistreat people then you don't have that problem. The response was very simple "Our business sometimes requires us to do things that some people see as mistreatment. It's all a point of view situation."
Needless to say, I was a manager for nearly 20 years and tge people that worked for me loved me because I treated them with respect and fought for their rights when the company was in rhe wrong. Which was a lot.
You think you hate it now, just wait till you move here!
Great place to relax and getting grounded wish I could visit more love the greeeeeen trees
If people want the beauty and kindness of locals they need to look at the Eastern Panhandle -- I don't know why anyone would move anywhere or any state without looking and researching what the area is like economically and diversity. We moved here in 1984 after retiring from the military and we were always employed. Retired now and widowed and still living in the same county.
Diversity =🐂💩
I live right across the state line in Pa. I love WV it is the only other place I have been that feels like home.
Thank You for sharing all information, even if it's not flattering. I don't understand the people complaining - they are missing the point.
I am returning home to Wv after 34 years of living in New Orleans ,Mississippi and Ohio. No place like home.
Welcome back!
All FACTS !
I’ve been here 42 years.
I live in the southern tip of WV. Born and raised. And we're so stereotyped that even the rest of WV hate's us. It was a great place to grow up in the 60s and 70s. There were 100,000 people in this county in the late 50s. Maybe 14,000-15,000 now. And I like it that way. That's why I stayed. What I don't like is, because of the insanity and influx of illegal, welfare dependent aliens in the large cities of this country, houses and property that's been vacant for decades here is being purchased by natives of those areas who are fleeing the insanity. And unfortunately, when that happens, the unfriendliness and arrogance come's with them. Now we're getting the homeless vagrants because even they are being squeezed out of those areas. Unfortunate for those of us who stayed, worked, and raised our families here because of the solitude.
Don't feel bad I've lived here my whole life the whole state sucks.
@@slapnutzracing2152Pack up and move.
Lived in Pennsylvania born and raised for 40 years move to West Virginia never going back to the Pennsylvania The Communist state. people here are nice. Been here almost 12 yeand love it More of a free state Then
Pennsylvania or Virginia. So many jobs in my area that They can't find enough people. And They're good paying jobs.
That's awesome to hear! Seems like a lot of folks around here are having trouble finding people to work
Where do you live in WV? I am thinking of moving there.
Is your Area in health care? - I'm thinking of doing medial. tech. work at night.
@@PeterErikson-rd5tj my My daughter is she's an OBGYN technician. I work in the Communist state of Maryland
Yessir. I plan to move near Timberline Mountain in the future!! Pa is a communist agenda
I was born and live in my lovely West Virginia.
I've lived all over the country, but came back home, bc I missed it so much.
I will stay here till I'm no longer here on this earth, enjoying and cherishing what GOD has provided for mevin West Virginia.
Good wonderful ppl live here, if you really want to make friends. Reach out and get acquainted. Blessings
Had a gf in HS from WV. She was the most beautiful girl I've ever been with. Just gorgeous! She broke my heart when she went back there. Heard when I was in college, she got knocked up her Sr. year of HS, married the guy, dropped out of HS, and became a sad stereotypical WV story. Last I heard, she had 4 kids with him, he turned out to be a drug dealer and got busted, she left him, was married twice more, and died of lung cancer at 52. She had a life of mostly poverty. So sad, she was a great girl.
I have lived in WV for all 50 plus years of my life. It’s a great place to live if you like outdoor activities and have a good job. We do plan to move south for retirement for better weather but WV will always be home.
I was born in southern WV. You can blame our politicians.. local and federal for the economy. It’s not the people. I had to move away for a job unfortunately.
I would point out when it comes to economic resources, that doesn't mean as much as one might think. California, where I live, is one of the largest economies in the WORLD, out doing some countries. yet poverty here is unbelievable. its offset in stats due to the extreme wealth of the 1%. the median income is also offset. not trying to diminish West Virginia's problems, but just something to consider.
You’ve definitely giving me something to think about because I am looking to put my condo on the market and head that way within the next year.
Nice! Where do you live currently?
@@movingtovawv Florida
@@kristiemiller4752 stay there
The problems you highlighted here are very similar to those affecting several rural states. Maine in particular has the same issues with healthcare, housing, drug addiction, poverty, and the job market. But I much prefer living in the quiet country where most of your constitutional rights are respected. WV is definitely on my list of places to visit, if not live someday.
I'm a New Yorker and I would still move to West Virginia ❤
same... the reasons people state for NOT moving to WV, I don't care about. No jobs - I'll be retired. Bad schools - I don't have kids. Nothing to do - 25 years working in Midtown Manhattan, it can't BE too quiet and peaceful.
I live in Upstate New York. There's really nothing to do around here. And all of our tax money gets sent to NYC. Only a few counties are Republican, the majority of the state is Democratic controlled. Which won't change anytime soon.
The governor can get elected as many times as they want. And with NYC being so Democratic, it's an automatic win for whoever is the democratic candidate.
If you are a republican living in New york, get out while you can. And dont look back.
@@arupian666don’t let what they say both you. I have lived here my whole life. I love it here. I don’t care for many people and I like the simple life.
Please come and meet poverty Methman ...👾
Its one of the most beautiful places i ve ever seen @ the locals are the same
great video
Everything spot on but I’ve only got one thing to say I’ve lived most my life in dc and New York I moved here 14 years ago and love it layed back people are nice when you go into places and love my yard I can’t state that more I love having a yard not living in a apartment love going into the woods and just getting away
Lived in West Virginia for over 25 years and loved its people, geography, places and its country folks in particular. You have to be in the right mindset to live there and not bother but what others say. It had the best parks and natural vistas in the US ( my own opinion).
Interesting perspective! Would love to hear more about the beautiful parks and natural sights in West Virginia you mentioned.
Maybe another video showcasing the positive aspects?
Born and raised in WV and have done quite well for myself. Our low cost of living and low crime rates outweigh the negative aspects. BTW, West Virginia has a surplus in revenue, our people are grounded and my Internet service is obviously fine.
I bought a house for $4700 with great land. Can't beat that.
Nice! What part of WV?
@movingtovawv Charleston WV
@movingtovawv I got it on an auction site. The home was built 2001. Bones are solid. It will be were my wife and I retire during summers in Arizona.
sounds like the best one
I have learned to love WV. I have family members that live there & I visit every October. Fall is so beautiful! My biggest problem is the lack of a major airport. I want to be able to book a direct flight from somewhere. I can't, if I could, I would visit lots more. I really enjoy rual living & a slower pace of life but, getting there on a plane is a nightmare.
I really want to get back to the country and WV aligns a lot with my priorities. The only major concern is healthcare. My wife needs great doctors and we are in our 50s. Traveling two hours for a routine doctor's visit twice a month wouldn't be a big deal but emergency services is a concern. Going to a small hospital without a lot of depth is problematic.
Love my state, but yes, healthcare access is one thing to look at. If you're close to the larger metro areas like Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and maybe the Martinsburg area ( not super familiar with it), you're good. Get very far away from them and it does become an issue.
That's why we need tax supported healthcare. Funds for rural clinics and hospitals, preferably not connected to big pharma and corporations. A social democratic outlook would help.
I homeschool, my husband has a CDL, we will be able to cash out our future home and we hardly see doctors. I take my kids to the dentist and that's about it. As long as there is a Walmart within 50 miles we'll be fine.
Moving to the 4th poorest state would be a few steps up for me! Currently in the first.
I've lived here my entire life and it is so-WV isn't perfect. However, our state is faced with many of the same drawbacks of the other 49 states-one has to look at the Federal Government, as this is a real bad problem that many don't want to address.
As far as the drugs go, shut the damn border down and much will cease. Jobs have been lost since the last election.
The list goes on and on. From what I've dealt with in Healthcare, I consider our hospitals, rehabilitation to be top notch. I would not want to go anywhere else.
Interest rates are outrageous everywhere. Who wants to pay excessive money for a bigger house?
Jobs are plentiful if you want to work the trades. We still have schools here-not everyone is illiterate-so yeah, teachers are still in demand. We still have banks that we can walk into and find jobs. We also have car dealerships that employ many.
You all get the idea.
I live in north central and I guess we don’t have the problems they speak of. A man for sure doesn’t have to look to hard for work I don’t know a physical job not looking for help. We have to look for non English speaking folks just to fill positions. 18 dollars an hour starting. Needless to say work is abundant here.
I live in VA about 20 minutes from WV border. My adult son & his longtime girlfriend are buying a home (to be built) in Ranson WV…but they are keeping their jobs in VA.
I live and work in NC but i own a house in Quinwood, WV, i agree that there isn't much available for jobs other than Walmart and Lowes both which are in Lewisburg, 30 mins away. I will be 68 in December and i also agree with your thoughts on healthcare, i have done some research and I don't see many upper crust Hospitals, not a good thing for older people like myself.
One thing i won't worry about are my annual taxes which are $165.00.
The advertising for healthcare is more impressive than what you actually get at "upper crust" hospitals. By the way, did you get your four beer virus boosters?
@@the_gilded_age_phoenix8717 NO-- SHOTS/VACCINES, ETC. ARE A PHARMACEUTICAL $$$$$ MAKER AND SCAM
@wingsandbeer4208 Hello, i just read your message. No, I go there for a long weekend from time to time but i am sure you can find either an apartment or a house for rent, i was told i should be able to get 700-750
They sure have some beautiful homes out there.
Huh, I am in florida you cant find a house here for 50k
Are you commenting on the right video? I don’t think we mentioned buying a house for 50k in Florida anywhere in the video
You can’t in WV either. Not worthy of living in. 50k houses are a myth and have been for 10+ years.
@@jamusmorrison3073 Exactly good luck finding an acre of land around my area of West Virginia for 50k
The State taxes Socialist Security.
I was thinking about it - but the idea that the money that was stolen outta my paychecks for my entire life - goes to the State government!?!
Hard Pass!
Good Talk. I see it as nowhere to go but UP. (a good administration change will help ;)
Don’t forget about tyrannical cops and city councils
I wouldn't equate poor health habits with poor healthcare. WV has excellent healthcare and has strong affiliations with healthcare systems like the Cleveland Clinic.
I have moved to west virginia from nys and im glad i did its beautiful and the people we have met have been more than welcoming
The roads are terrible. Morgantown housing is ridiculous and the traffic is awful.
Born and raised 20 min north of downtown Seattle, WA. The difference is vast for sure. I see the house prices and am certainly enticed. The amount of poverty is hard for me to wrap my mind around. Seattle has definitely spoiled me as an American, but it has no homes in my price range at all. *i do not consider renting land for a trailer as "home ownership". The land is an asset, and the trailer is a liability. Big difference.
No jobs
Couple people moved here thinking they were gonna work from home in the mtns. All internet ports are currently taken and Starlink has a year or more waitlist for this area. Those folks are trying to sell house now.
Yup! It’s one of the first things I ask folks when we’re doing our buyer consult.
People always ask if a certain town has good internet and honestly it always comes down to the specific neighborhood or property. Research first comes down to every property. But hopefully starlink rolls out sooner than later. Lot of my clients are on the wait list
Tell them Starlink no longer has a waitlist, it's available to everyone now, just have to contact them.
I’m moving from Indiana to Poca WV in a month wish me luck!
The high school mascot is a dot!!
I had to leave WVa in 1969 as the state was just starting its decline from job loss! Most of my classmates also had to leave to find quality jobs. I miss the hills, fishing, and hunting that I did as a kid.
How about Clarksburg area? Is it still Appalachian culture or more immigrant?
Well nothing you said would actually persuade me not to move to WV. I live in Pa and often wish I could leave but finances prevent me from doing so. WV is a beautiful state and easily wins for country living and privacy.
Watch OUT!! For Methman in Point Pleasant !!!
As odd as it may sound, I feel Appalachians and slavs lead very similar lives. Desolate cities that were once opulent powerhouses, towns so run down you find it surprising people are allowed to live there, an opioid epidemic seeping into the very veins of the region, a government that no longer cares about the people who have lived there for generations, who's forefathers were the ones responsible for bringing their nation into prosperity through the deep, damp mines underground and through the dangerous, back-breaking factories above. Where streets, homes and people begin to blend into each other, a monotony only broken up by crumbling buildings so long faded and forgotten that their original purpose remains a mystery. An overwhelming sense of malignant pessimism and acceptance that things there can't, and won't, get any better.
I agree. As a medical professional, Virgina is nicer.
I’m an OTR truck driver so I should be alright… right?
I met someone who was moving to WV. I asked him why. I prefer states with the ocean.
Thank you for this video. I am a skilled Plumbing & HVACr technician with twenty years experience in the trades from Canada looking to move to West Virginia. Would you have any advice outside the normal for a skilled worker like myself to streamline the process?
My pleasure! I’d be happy to have a more detailed conversation with you about that. Feel free to give me a call or shoot me a text at (540) 336-6130.
If you look closer to the Pa. Border you will always find trades work.. We have a major shortage
I work in North central Wv. HVAC and plumbers make good money here. Our local bigger outfit is Graham Simon plumbing. I know they cost a lot. We have 5 outfits I can think off hand. Good luck.
Just don't vote dementedRAT. They ruin everything and take your rights away while forcing "diversity." Look at crime in dementedRAT controlled places.... then look at crime in our state where EVERYONE carries a gxn.