5/9/2009

Charleston, West Virginia

Charleston, West Virginia (population 50,000 with 200,000 in the surrounding urban area) has some things going for it as a retirement spot.  Located along two rivers close to the center of the state, its cost of living is nearly 20% below the national average, and the median home price is $165,000, also below the national average.   The city has an older population, with nearly 25% of its residents age 45 to 64 and 18% age 65 or better.   Cultural amenities are quite good for a metropolis its size, and the overall atmosphere is laid-back and low key.  The city has a relatively mild, four season climate, with winter temperatures in the 40s and summer temperatures in the low 90s.  The surrounding scenery is quite pretty with mountains all around.  

There are, though, a couple of serious drawbacks to Charleston as a retirement spot.     While the older demographics may appeal to some retirees, the reason fewer younger people live here is because jobs are scarce, and salaries are low.  In fact, so many young workers are leaving the city that it is losing population, depressing the tax base which could lead to significant problems in the future.   Currently, the crime rate is 80% above the national average.  Parts of the city are described as "seedy" and "gritty."

No.   High crime rate and losing population