Charleston is a bustling town with a population of approximately 49,384. It’s one of the most interesting medium-sized cities in America, so it’s not a surprise that it’s also the capital city of West Virginia. If you want to be at the heart of things and be in the center of it all, Charleston is the place for you. Charleston is renowned for its numerous services, significant cost of living, thriving music scene, delicious food, and myriad outdoor activities.
Charleston is located at the confluence between Charleston and the confluence of Elk and the Kanawha Rivers and is easily accessible to city residents. This closeness of freshwater sources has led to Charleston’s lifestyle being highly dependent on water, mainly when settlers relied on this water source to live. What are some other interesting characteristics of this bustling capital city? Before moving to any location, you must know the new area.
Are there strengths, flaws, and notable characteristics? Here are seven things you need to be aware of before you move into Charleston, WV.
It’s Definitely A College Town
Charleston, West Virginia, is an academic town. It’s a fact that the city is busier during the school calendar than summer vacation and winter break. It is home to The University of Charleston, one of the area’s top higher education institutions. The college town atmosphere fills Charleston with exciting events, particularly during the academic calendar. This is what makes the economy of Charleston geared towards accommodating college students. It offers plenty of entertainment, nightlife, restaurants, and opportunities to exercise and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Wide Variety Of Outdoor Activity Options
The gorgeous Kanawha River runs straight through Charleston, and naturally, it significantly influences the local culture and community activities. The Kanawha River is where residents can enjoy a relaxing day, fish, fish, or simply stroll on trails to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Kanawha State Forest is ideal for the most memorable water experience. Kanawha State Forest is a trendy park with a sprawling 9,300-acre recreation area. It’s located just seven miles from Charleston. There’s something to suit everyone, such as biking and hiking trails, parks, bird-watching places, picnic shelters, camping, and much more.
For more information about trails and water-based sports, call Charleston’s Parks and Recreation Department, which manages and maintains the numerous places of recreation and communities surrounding the city.
The Town Was A Major Player In The Salt Industry
Charleston has a long and rich tradition of salt production, which has fueled its local economy for a long time. Old buildings still stand, providing a glimpse of the past. JQD Saltworks, one of Kanawha Valley’s treasures hidden in plain sight, is a reconstructed salt mine built in 1813.
This plant contributed to West Virginia’s prominence in salt industries. Salt was essential in preserving food items before refrigeration became a reality. Settlers relied on salt to make frontier staples such as salted pork, preserved veggies, and meats in pots that would be shelf-stable. This was vital in the days before refrigeration was a common practice.
Several Local And Beloved Hangouts
Every city with a history has secrets, for example, and Charleston is no different. The most sought-after spot for locals to hang out is in a cinder block structure that you may overlook if you aren’t paying close attention. This building houses an establishment called the Red Carpet Lounge, a dive bar most popular among Charleston’s famous. It’s the ideal place to go if you want to be involved. You’ll also be able to catch live music on the road to Empty Glass, Charleston’s most well-known concert venue. The more you discover, the more venues have won awards that locals have known for a long time and sometimes even generations.
Cost Of Living Is Lower Than Neighboring States
In Charleston, the price of life is much more affordable than the national average of 85.4/100. It’s about 14% cheaper to live here than the average national. If you’re looking to buy an extra-large house for less and are willing to reduce your spending on basic necessities, this is an excellent area to consider. This makes it easier to justify either looking for a real estate investment or a full-blow decision to purchase a home and move here.
Very Family Friendly Outlets
The fact that Charleston is the city’s capital gives it access to plenty of things to entertain locals and visitors. You will find everything from children-friendly to adult-oriented activities throughout the city. Look around the various museums with your children, or try your chance to win in one of Charleston’s vibrant casinos. Enjoy a stroll with your pet on the trails that wind through the water, or enjoy your children’s playtime at the numerous parks in the region. If you’re looking to relax in the great outdoors or enjoy an exciting live show, Charleston has got you covered.
The Restaurants Are Surprisingly Notable
Charleston is known for its excellent food choices. It is a must to look at all the fantastic dining choices. There are several mom-and-pop cafes like The Daily Dose Cafe to start your day. You can also close the day with an exquisite steak meal at Brick and Barrel, specializing in surf-and-turf cocktails, craft beer, and premium wines.
Another place that should be noticed is Smokehouse, one of West Side’s most adored breakfast spots. All the food is made at home and by hand—a refreshing change from the norm that will make you look for a second.