Livability
Life is Enjoyable and Rewarding Here in Advantage Valley
West Virginia’s Advantage Valley is more than a great place to do business. It’s also a wonderful place to live. First-time visitors are often surprised by our region’s natural beauty, cultural and recreational opportunities, and friendly way of life. New residents appreciate the area’s affordable housing in safe, neighborly communities and a cost of living that’s 22 percent below the national average. Whether you prefer an urban setting, suburban lawns, small-town life, or wide-open rural spaces, you’ll find something to love here.
Arts & Culture
If arts and culture is important to you, you’ll discover plenty to keep you busy. Advantage Valley is home to the West Virginia Culture Center, the Heritage Farm Museum and Village, the Museum of Radio and Technology and the West Virginia State Museum. Our arts community includes the West Virginia Symphony, Huntington Symphony, Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences, Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center, and the Huntington Dance Theater. Add in community festivals, fairs, concerts, and parades, and there’s something for every taste.
Almost Heaven
You’ve heard West Virginia described as Almost Heaven, and if you enjoy outdoor recreation, you’ll immediately understand why. Here in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty and all sorts of outdoor recreation all year ‘round. Besides the local Hatfield-McCoy Trails which are known for best-in-class hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, fishing, and other recreational activities, we’re close to major national parks like the New River Gorge National Recreation Area and the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Local parks like the Kanawha State Forest, Coonskin Park, and Huntington’s Ritter Park put fun just minutes from home and work. And our region’s six rivers offer so much for canoeists, kayakers, and water recreation enthusiasts.
Amateur & Professional Sports
Sports fans will enjoy a variety of college and university athletes, including the historic Marshall Thundering Herd. Appalachian Power Park hosts our local minor league baseball team, the West Virginia Power. Sports-minded families love the 127-acre Shawnee Sports Complex and its many soccer, lacrosse, baseball, and softball fields.
Shopping & Dining
If you enjoy browsing through interesting stores and spending a night out for innovative dining, you’ll find so many opportunities. Advantage Valley is West Virginia’s retail hub, with shopping and dining in so many locations, among them Capitol Market, Charleston Town Center, Huntington Mall, and Pullman Square.
