West Virginia is a state that is characterized by its welcoming people, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Nevertheless, it is a state that has encountered numerous obstacles in recent years, including population decline, economic stagnation, environmental degradation, and social issues.
West Virginia experienced a greater percentage of its population loss than any other state in the nation, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. The population decreased by approximately 59,000 individuals, or 3.2%, between 2010 and 2020. As a result, West Virginia was one of only seven states to lose a congressional seat subsequent to the 2020 census.
A lack of opportunity or low pay, insufficient employment opportunities, a political climate that some individuals find oppressive, and inadequate cellular and internet service are among the reasons why individuals are migrating from West Virginia.
Many young and educated individuals are relocating to other states in search of better opportunities, while some older and retired individuals are pursuing warmer and more affordable living arrangements. The state’s tax base, public services, infrastructure, and quality of life have all been impacted by the population decline.
While certain towns and cities in West Virginia are endeavoring to revitalize themselves and attract new residents, others are finding it difficult to endure and adjust to the loss of their communities. Based on the percentage of population change from 2010 to 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau has identified seven West Virginia towns that individuals are evacuating as quickly as possible.
1. Welch
Welch is the county seat of McDowell County, which was previously the greatest coal-producing county in the United States. Nevertheless, the community and its inhabitants have been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic, poverty, and crime, in addition to the coal industry’s decline. The population of Welch decreased by 23.6%, from 2,406 in 2010 to 1,838 in 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the municipality has a poverty rate of 36.4%, an unemployment rate of 12.9%, and a median household income of $25,625.
2. War
War is an additional community in McDowell County that has encountered comparable challenges to Welch. War was named after the adjacent War Creek and was once a thriving coal mining community. Nevertheless, the town has been experiencing a decline in its population and business activity for decades, and its future is currently gloomy. The population of War decreased by 22.9% from 862 in 2010 to 665 in 2020. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the municipality has a poverty rate of 38.8%, an unemployment rate of 14.5%, and a median household income of $23,750.
3. Ansted
Ansted is a town in Fayette County that is situated on the rim of the New River Gorge, a national park and renowned tourist destination. Ansted was a prosperous and cultured community that was established by a British geologist and coal mine owner. Nevertheless, the town has been experiencing a decline in population and appeal, as well as a growing sense of isolation and neglect. The population of Ansted decreased by 18.8% from 1,404 in 2010 to 1,140 in 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the municipality has a poverty rate of 23.9%, an unemployment rate of 9.4%, and a median household income of $33,750.
4. Matoaka
Matoaka is a hamlet in Mercer County that was named after the Native American princess Pocahontas, who was also known as Matoaka. The town was once a coal mining center and a railroad junction; however, it has since sunk into a state of decline and decay. The population of Matoaka decreased by 18.4% from 227 in 2010 to 185 in 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the municipality has a poverty rate of 44.3%, an unemployment rate of 16.2%, and a median household income of $21,250.
5. Gary
A coal mining company community, Gary is a town in McDowell County that was established by the U.S. Steel Corporation. Gary was once a prosperous and diverse community, boasting a hospital, a theater, a golf course, and a swimming pool. Nevertheless, the town has been severely impacted by the coal industry’s collapse, the emigration of its residents, and the deterioration of its infrastructure and amenities. The population of Gary decreased by 17.9% from 968 in 2010 to 794 in 2020. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a poverty rate of 35.8%, an unemployment rate of 11.8%, and a median household income of $24,063.
6. Rainelle
Rainelle is a community in Greenbrier County that was established by two brothers who constructed a substantial lumber mill and a railroad. A variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities were present in Rainelle, which was once a thriving and vibrant town. Nevertheless, the town has been severely impacted by the forestry industry’s decline, the loss of its youthful population, and the floods that have harmed its homes and businesses. The population of Rainelle decreased by 17.8% from 1,505 in 2010 to 1,237 in 2020. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the municipality has a poverty rate of 28.9%, an unemployment rate of 8.9%, and a median household income of $29,375..
7. Mullens
Mullens is a city in Wyoming County that was named in honor of a railroad magnate who played a significant role in the development of the coal fields in the area. Mullens was once a prosperous and lively city, boasting a substantial downtown, a hospital, a college, and a newspaper. Nevertheless, the city has been in a state of decline for years as a result of the coal industry’s closure, the absence of economic diversification, and the closure of its main employers. The population of Mullens decreased by 17.7% from 1,559 in 2010 to 1,283 in 2020. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the city has a poverty rate of 30.9%, an unemployment rate of 10.4%, and a median household income of $27,500.
In Conclusion
There are numerous obstacles to surmount in West Virginia, but there are also numerous opportunities to capitalize on. The state is characterized by a stunning natural attractiveness, a loyal workforce, and a rich cultural heritage. In addition to diversifying its economy beyond coal and other extractive industries, the state must also invest in education, health, infrastructure, and innovation. The state must also increase the retention and attraction of youthful and talented individuals, as well as provide them with additional incentives and options to remain or relocate to the state.
The state must also cultivate a more positive and progressive image of itself, as well as embrace its diversity and inclusivity. The state must also provide assistance to small communities and rural areas in navigating the challenges and changes they encounter, as well as in supporting and revitalizing them. As well as promoting its tourism and recreation potential, the state must also preserve and protect its environment and heritage.
West Virginia has a great deal to offer, but there is also much room for improvement. The state is rife with potential, but it also faces numerous challenges. The state is filled with a great deal of pride, but it also endures a great deal of suffering. The condition is characterized by a significant amount of hope, as well as a significant amount of despair.
There is a substantial amount of labor that the state must complete, but there are also numerous opportunities to investigate. There is a significant number of individuals who adore the state, as well as a significant number of individuals who have departed. The state is replete with stories to recount, but it also has a plethora of stories to write. The state has a wealth of history to preserve, as well as a wealth of history to create. The state contains a significant amount of West Virginia, as well as a significant amount of the United States.