Livability Score

82
/100
i The AreaVibes Livability Score evaluates 9 different categories and creates an overall score out of 100. The higher the score, the better the area.

amenities A+

There are lots of amenities close to this location.
Coffee (10) A+
Taylor Books Cafe
Coffee Shop
Sam's Uptown Cafe & Bar
Coffee Shop
Inta Juice
Coffee Shop
Capitol Roasters Cafe
Coffee Shop
Moxxi Coffee
Coffee Shop
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
Mea Cuppa Coffee Lounge
Coffee Shop
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
Donut Connection
Coffee Shop
Cafe Appalachia
Coffee Shop
The Daily Cup
Coffee Shop
Entertainment (14) A+
WV market gallery
Art Gallery
Bear Wood Company
Art Gallery
Annex Gallery
Art Gallery
Walker Theatre
Theatre Arts
West Virginia State University Capitol Center
Theatre Arts
Park Place Stadium Cinema 11
Cinema
Schoenbaum Stage
Theatre Arts
Sunrise Bird Sanctuary Museum
Museum
Charleston Art Gallery
Theatre Arts
University of Charleston Stadium
Stadium
Elk City Playhouse
Theatre Arts
West Virginia Cultural Center
Museum
Frankenberger Art Gallery
Museum
Skyline Drive
Attraction
Food and Drink (88) A+
Adelphia Sports Bar and Grille
Bar
Super Weenie
Fast Food
Cozumel Express
Fast Food
Ellen's Ice Cream
Sweets
Peanut Shoppe
Sweets
The Elite Gentleman's Club
Bar
Jimmy John's
Fast Food
Atmosphere Ultra Lounge
Bar
Sky Lounge
Bar
Bar 101
Bar
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Sweets
The Blue Parrot
Bar
Big Joe's
Bar
Copper Pint Irish Pub
Bar
Boulevard Tavern
Bar
Candy Craze
Sweets
Chick-fil-A
Fast Food
Scraper's Ice Cream
Sweets
Charleys Philly Steaks
Fast Food
China Max
Fast Food
Subway
Fast Food
Sarku Japan
Fast Food
Hawaiian Grill
Fast Food
Fresh Wraps & Grill
Fast Food
Sbarro
Fast Food
Fitness (12) A+
Clay Center
Community Centre
Summit Community Conference Center
Community Centre
Roark-Sullivan Lifeway Center
Community Centre
Kanawha County Conference Center
Community Centre
M L King Jr. Community Center
Community Centre
Revolution Training
Gym
Second Avenue Community Center
Community Centre
Riverview Recreation Center
Community Centre
Fitt24
Gym
North Charleston Community Center
Community Centre
Brickhouse Cardio Club
Gym
Groceries (10) C-
Middle East Mart
Grocery Store
Charleston Bread
Bakery
Piggly Wiggly
Grocery Store
Kroger
Grocery Store
Healthy Life Market
Health Food
Kroger
Grocery Store
Piggly Wiggly
Grocery Store
Asian Supermarket
Grocery Store
Parks (54) A+
Mary Price Ratrie Greenspace
Park
Henry Gassaway Davis Park
Park
Haddad Riverfront Park
Park
Carriage Trail
Park
Grasscup Road Historic District
Park
Briar St Park
Park
Elk River City Park
Park
Elk River Trail Park
Park
East End Historic District
Park
River Front Park
Park
East End Community Park
Park
Bigley Avenue Little League Fields
Park
Kanawha Riflemens Memorial Park
Park
Oakmont Park
Park
Kids Splash Park
Playground
Magic Island Park
Park
Spring Hill Cemetery Historic District
Park
Living AIDS Memorial Garden
Park
Governor's Park
Park
Capitol Complex Monument Park
Park
Riverfront Lawn
Park
Chilton Reserve
Park
Ruffner Memorial Park
Park
West Virginia Early Learning Academy Playground
Playground
West Virginia Early Learning Academy Playground
Playground
Shops (152) A+
Modern by Design
Interior Decoration
The Purple Moon
Interior Decoration
Head South
Beauty
Savvy Chic
Clothing
Visions Day Spa
Beauty
Taylor Books
Books
Pink Birch
Clothing
Xerox Retailer
Electronics
Elite Hair Design
Hairdresser
Charleston House Hairstyling Shop
Hairdresser
Charleston Transit Mall
Mall
West Virginia Eye Consultants
Optician
Rack Room Shoes
Shoes
rue21
Clothing
Kid Country Toys
Toys
JoS. A. Bank
Clothing
Kay Jewelers
Fashion
JCPenney
Department Store
Brow Bar
Beauty
Verizon
Electronics
AT&T
Electronics
Icing
Clothing
Nail Studio
Beauty
Journeys
Shoes
T-Mobile
Electronics
See more Charleston amenity data

commute A+

Of all people who commute, 4.2% take public transportation in Charleston.
Public Transit Stops (5)
Stops & Stations
B+
Charleston
Transit Station
KRT Bus Stop
Bus Stop
Workers Taking Public Transit
4.2%
D+
See more Charleston commute data

cost of living A

The cost of living in Charleston is 93/100 - which is 8% higher than West Virginia.
Cost of Living
Goods & Services, Housing, etc.
B-
Tax Rates
Income & Sales Tax
B-
See more Charleston cost of living data

crime F

Charleston crime rates are 4,741 per 100k, which is 214% higher than West Virginia
Property Crime
4,103 crimes per 100k
F
Violent Crime
638 crimes per 100k
F
See more Charleston crime data

employment C

The median income in Charleston is $49,769 - which is 17% higher than West Virginia.
Med. Household Income
$49,769
F
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
B
See more Charleston employment data

health A+

There are many hospitals, police and fire stations.
Health & Safety (40)
Dentist, Doctor, Hospital, etc.
A+
Charleston Dental Associates
Dentist
Fruth Pharmacy
Pharmacy
Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital
Hospital
KCEAA Clinic
Clinic
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
Police
Rite Aid
Pharmacy
Saint Francis Hospital
Hospital
Charleston Surgical Hospital
Hospital
One Day Surgery Center
Clinic
Mindari Eye Center
Clinic
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
Police
CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
Kinetic Health Care
Clinic
Dr. Gaal
Doctor
United States Secret Service - Charleston Division
Police
Charleston Area Medical Center - Women and Children's Hospital
Hospital
Fruth Pharmacy
Pharmacy
Fire Station Number 2
Fire Station
Rx by Tel Pharmacy & Vitamin Center
Pharmacy
West Virginia Capitol Police - Govenror's Gate
Police
Dr. Moore & Moore Dental Associates, PLLC
Dentist
Walgreens
Pharmacy
West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
Police
Bone and Joint Surgeons
Clinic
CAMC Weight Loss Center & Sports Medicine Center
Clinic
Air Quality
Median Air Quality
A-
See more Charleston health & safety data

housing A+

Charleston home prices are $156,900 - which is 46% higher than West Virginia
Home Price
$156,900
C-
Home Appreciation Rate
4%
B-
Home Affordability
3.2x (home price to income ratio)
B+
See more Charleston housing data

schools A

The Charleston graduation rate is 86% - which is 10% higher than West Virginia
School Test Scores
N/A
High School Grad. Rates
86%
C+
Elementary Schools (31) D-
Sacred Heart Grade School
Charleston Catholic High School
Piedmont Year-Round Education
Mountaineer Montessori School
Blvd Adventist Academy
Charleston Montessori Inc.
Overbrook Elementary School
Stonewall Jackson Middle School
Holz Elementary School
Mary C. Snow West Side Elementary
Weberwood Elementary School
John Adams Middle School
Ruffner Elementary School
Edgewood Elementary
Kanawha City Elementary School
Bible Center School
Chandler Academy
Kenna Elementary School
Montrose Elementary School
Horace Mann Middle School
South Charleston Middle School
St Agnes School
Chamberlain Elementary School
Grandview Elementary School
Shoals Elementary School
High Schools (7) A+
Charleston Catholic High School
Garnet Career Center
George Washington High School
Chandler Academy
Capital High School
See more Charleston education data

ratings F

Charleston has an overall rating of 50% from 14 reviews.
User Reviews (5)
From AreaVibes
F
User Surveys (9)
From AreaVibes
C+
See more Charleston user rating data
Amenities Commute Cost of Living Crime Employment Health & Safety Housing Schools User Ratings
Photo of Charleston, WV
( 14 Ratings )

Living in Charleston, WV

Charleston Area Facts

  • Charleston has a Livability Score of 82/100, which is considered exceptional
  • Charleston crime rates are 214% higher than the West Virginia average
  • Cost of living in Charleston is 8% higher than the West Virginia average
New Real Estate Listings in Charleston Area
Search Homes for Sale in Charleston, WV

Charleston Reviews

Write a review about Charleston Tell people what you like or don't like about Charleston…
40 years later and sounds like not much has changed 0.5 rating By AlmostHeavenHuh ( Aug 25, 2017) That's right. I was born in Charleston and moved away around 40 years ago after completing 6th grade. Still, I have distinct memories and the reviews I've read here are terribly depressing. Sounds like the area hasn't changed, in fact it sounds like it's gone down hill if anythin ...Read More g. We moved from there to sunny FL and in the first week at my new school the social studies book we used had a chapter on pollution. The main picture shown in the chapter was the smoke stacks (this was the 70s) spewing pollution into the air from the chemical factories centered around that island near the bridge over the Kanawha river. When I told my all new classmates that's where I had moved from, they couldn't believe a place like that actually existed (our school was right next to the beach). News Flash, everyone is NOT on drugs in other parts of the country. So much for an all white population making things great (yes, I'm white). Oh and John Denver must be turning over in his grave. Almost heaven? Only in opposite world. I'll take the advice of another reviewer and be content I was there once, that's more than enough. Read Less
Best place to live in charleston 0 rating By Wvquiltlady@hotmail.c ( Feb 22, 2016) I have lived in several areas in West Virginia as well as other states and I have never lived anywhere that compares to living on quarrier street. It has so many friendly educated people who cares about the community. Pot luck dinners monthly to help people get to know each oth ...Read More er, playgrounds for children, a religious private school, neighbors who watch out for each other and a great place to walk or ride your bicycle. By the way, did I mention you can walk to restaurants, parks, hospitals and doctors 2-5 minutes away? It is the city and there are certain areas that have high crime but this area is not it. We have a security system which has been set off by accident and the police have been here within 5 minutes. It really doesn't get any better than that. My recommendation to anyone looking for a home where you can have more of a quality of life and less time driving to your job, then keep your eyes open for a house on this street. Believe me, we have been here for 11 years and would not trade it for anyone home on the hills where you never see anyone come outside of their homes Read Less
Needs help 0.5 rating By In2ition ( Nov 09, 2014) I have been here sense 2001 and I have seen Charleston deteriorate and crime rate increase drastically. It has no Diversity at all, the most spoken words are WVU which is the University that is always rank top 3 for partying and they are proud. The education system is the worse ...Read More in the country (I have two daughters 7 and 9). there's is nothing to do and yes everything is relative here. It's known for being the chemical valley and the smell proves it. only 19% have a bachelors degree and the politicians are all crooked. I would say that 50% of the population live on the new unemployment program I call SSD. if you do search on MSN CNN or other for the worst state to live in by health , education, etc. West Virginia is always in the top, and Charleston being the capitol city is front and running. The state is beautiful with it mountains and valleys, the fall and spring, very humid in the summer and the winter is just dirty after first snow fall.
If you want to be secluded and live off the grid, this state can provide that as many place in the state have no cable or cellular signal. It has only a little over 50,000 population in Charleston and a high rate of addiction to drugs as meth and heroin.
As for me and my wife we are both professionals and we are now ready to leave and start new in another stated that can provide more happiness. Money is not everything and a fresh start far away from here is long overdue. by the way my wife and I are foreigners and racism still exist time to go and NOT MAKE THE WRONG TURN Read Less
Charleston, WV - Amazing City! 4.5 rating By Anonymous ( Mar 23, 2012) I love the prospects of discovering hidden gems in neighborhoods. When I relocated to Charleston, West Virginia that I was in for a special treat. The ideal location was perfect for my work commute and the weekends are filled with fun and adventure. The hospitality I experienced ...Read More in this region made me feel at home instantly. Amazing nightlife and restaurants make settling in the region magic. The warm, friendly locals make you feel that your are amongst friends.


Along the Kanawha River, Charleston, West Virginia is located Living long-term in the city of Charleston has been a life long dream which I came true the minute I turned the key into the front door of my new Charleston home. Walking around the neighborhood and I could see at first glance what makes Charleston delightful and special. Local parks, galleries and museums continue to impress me as I toil the day away on my journey to and from home.

Attractions that I loved the most was the museum, vineyards and planetarium show. Only a short ride from Kanawh River, the Mi dland Trail Scenic Highway takes you anywhere. My love of outdoors took me into the wilderness of Charleston. From short drives up the Midland Trail Scenic Highway to exploring quaint living of the city, Charleston still excites me every time I set out of my front door.

Getting around Charleston could not be more easier. Renting a car if is a wonderful way to see the sights even if have one of your own at home. I greatly enjoy taking up the opportunity to hike, ski, and explore all the region. Charleston offers a variety of activities to amuse all ages. I, especially, enjoy exploring farmer's markets, parks, golf courses, old antique shops, art galleries and the famous farmer's market.
Read Less
Show All Reviews
Needs help 0.5 rating By In2ition ( Nov 09, 2014) I have been here sense 2001 and I have seen Charleston deteriorate and crime rate increase drastically. It has no Diversity at all, the most spoken words are WVU which is the University that is always rank top 3 for partying and they are proud. The education system is the worse ...Read More in the country (I have two daughters 7 and 9). there's is nothing to do and yes everything is relative here. It's known for being the chemical valley and the smell proves it. only 19% have a bachelors degree and the politicians are all crooked. I would say that 50% of the population live on the new unemployment program I call SSD. if you do search on MSN CNN or other for the worst state to live in by health , education, etc. West Virginia is always in the top, and Charleston being the capitol city is front and running. The state is beautiful with it mountains and valleys, the fall and spring, very humid in the summer and the winter is just dirty after first snow fall.
If you want to be secluded and live off the grid, this state can provide that as many place in the state have no cable or cellular signal. It has only a little over 50,000 population in Charleston and a high rate of addiction to drugs as meth and heroin.
As for me and my wife we are both professionals and we are now ready to leave and start new in another stated that can provide more happiness. Money is not everything and a fresh start far away from here is long overdue. by the way my wife and I are foreigners and racism still exist time to go and NOT MAKE THE WRONG TURN Read Less
Charleston, WV - Amazing City! 4.5 rating By Anonymous ( Mar 23, 2012) I love the prospects of discovering hidden gems in neighborhoods. When I relocated to Charleston, West Virginia that I was in for a special treat. The ideal location was perfect for my work commute and the weekends are filled with fun and adventure. The hospitality I experienced ...Read More in this region made me feel at home instantly. Amazing nightlife and restaurants make settling in the region magic. The warm, friendly locals make you feel that your are amongst friends.


Along the Kanawha River, Charleston, West Virginia is located Living long-term in the city of Charleston has been a life long dream which I came true the minute I turned the key into the front door of my new Charleston home. Walking around the neighborhood and I could see at first glance what makes Charleston delightful and special. Local parks, galleries and museums continue to impress me as I toil the day away on my journey to and from home.

Attractions that I loved the most was the museum, vineyards and planetarium show. Only a short ride from Kanawh River, the Mi dland Trail Scenic Highway takes you anywhere. My love of outdoors took me into the wilderness of Charleston. From short drives up the Midland Trail Scenic Highway to exploring quaint living of the city, Charleston still excites me every time I set out of my front door.

Getting around Charleston could not be more easier. Renting a car if is a wonderful way to see the sights even if have one of your own at home. I greatly enjoy taking up the opportunity to hike, ski, and explore all the region. Charleston offers a variety of activities to amuse all ages. I, especially, enjoy exploring farmer's markets, parks, golf courses, old antique shops, art galleries and the famous farmer's market.
Read Less
A Diamond Near the Appalachian Coalfields: Charleston, WV 5 rating By Anonymous ( May 25, 2010) Once a long-time resident of Charleston, West Virginia myself, let me suggest for those persons who are seeking a locale to vacation or relocate this year, you will find this city as a great choice. I fondly refer to the city of Charleston, West Virginia as a northerner, with the ...Read More heart of a southerner. A person who visits Charleston for the first time will find that the area residents presents the same persona. Charleston is progressively urban and charmingly country collectively; therefore, the city has much to offer in recreation to suit anyone.

Charleston, West Virginia is located along the Kanawha River and makes up a great deal of the Kanawha Valley area. There is as much to do after a short drive from Charleston in any given direction, as is found within the city itself. For example, a leisurely drive along the Midland Trail Scenic Highway would fascinate the nature lover with its lush beauty. The area's many attractions includes: museums, vineyards, baseball parks, a planetarium show, an amusement park, a motor speedway, parks, golfing, outdoor adventures, skiing, art galleries, the farmer's market, the Town Center Mall, a cornucopia of specialty shops and so much more.

Charleston, West Virginia features an eclectic collection of nightspots, dancing, music, a comedy club, the ballet, the opera, the theater, as well as numerous restaurants. Charleston truly steps out in full gala embellishment during its many cultural events, which consist of Multifest, the Vandalia Festival, a fireworks display during July 4 at the Riverfront, and the Sternwheel Regatta. And one other thing that I enjoyed when I lived in Charleston is that it never broke the bank to have a good time there. Read Less

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Charleston Awards

Compare Charleston, WV Livability

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      A+ Amenities

      Are there many local amenities in Charleston? Yes, there are lots of amenities close to this location.

      Parks

      Mary Price Ratrie Greenspace
      Henry Gassaway Davis Park
      Haddad Riverfront Park
      Carriage Trail
      Grasscup Road Historic District
      Briar St Park
      Elk River City Park
      Elk River Trail Park

      Entertainment

      WV market gallery
      Bear Wood Company
      Annex Gallery
      Walker Theatre
      West Virginia State University Capitol Center
      Park Place Stadium Cinema 11
      Schoenbaum Stage
      Sunrise Bird Sanctuary Museum

      Food & Drink

      Adelphia Sports Bar and Grille
      Super Weenie
      Cozumel Express
      Ellen's Ice Cream
      Peanut Shoppe
      The Elite Gentleman's Club
      Jimmy John's
      Atmosphere Ultra Lounge

      F Commute

      Is public transit available in Charleston? Of all people who commute, 4.2% take public transportation in Charleston.
      Drive to Work
      75%

      2% lower than the US average

      Take Public Transit
      4%

      1% lower than the US average

      Walk to Work
      7%

      4% higher than the US average

      A+ Health & Safety

      Is Charleston a healthy and safe place to live? Yes, there are many hospitals, police and fire stations.

      Hospitals

      Highland Hospital
      Charleston Area Medical Center - Memorial Hospital
      Charleston Area Medical Center - Women and Children's Hospital
      Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital
      Saint Francis Hospital
      Charleston Surgical Hospital
      CAMC Cancer Center

      Pharmacies

      Kroger Pharmacy
      Rite Aid
      Trivillian's Pharmacy and Soda Fountain
      Fruth Pharmacy
      Rx by Tel Pharmacy & Vitamin Center
      Fruth Pharmacy
      CVS Pharmacy
      Rite Aid

      Doctors

      Dr. Gaal