West Virginia, a state known for its rugged mountains and diverse outdoor recreational opportunities, is also becoming more cyclist-friendly. With its cities offering a mix of urban and natural landscapes, biking is becoming a more viable mode of transportation and leisure activity.
In this Redfin article, we delve into the top bikeable cities in West Virginia, providing insights into the state’s housing market and amenities.
All data sourced January 2024.
1. Huntington, WV
Bike Score: 44
Median Sale Price: $116,600
Median Rent Price: $800
With a bike score of 44, Huntington is the most bikeable city in West Virginia. The region boasts several cyclist-friendly neighborhoods, like Westmoreland and Edgemont. These areas contain bike lanes and plenty of attractions accessible by bike.
2. Morgantown, WV
Bike Score: 40
Median Sale Price: $262,365
Median Rent Price: $1,170
Morgantown has a bike score of 40, making it the second most bikeable city in the state. There are bikeable roads, neighborhoods, and trails throughout Morgantown, lik the Caperton Trail and West Virginia University, helping make the city accessible without a car.
3. Martinsburg, WV
Bike Score: 36
Median Sale Price: $274,900
Median Rent Price: $1,330
Martinsburg is the third most bikeable city in the state. Particularly bikeable areas in Martinsburg include the downtown area and an abundance of residential streets. These places are home to destinations like Charlotte Prather Park and the Roberts Gardens.
4. Wheeling, WV
Bike Score: 35
Median Sale Price: $134,000
Median Rent Price: $905
Wheeling has plenty of amenities a cyclist needs to succeed, including bike paths, local parks, and wide residential streets. Particularly bikeable streets and paths include the Wheeling Heritage Trail and Glenwood Road. So, whether you’re in the mood for commuting or a leisurely ride, you’re sure to find a route that works for you.
5. Parkersburg, WV
Bike Score: 33
Median Sale Price: $132,635
Median Rent Price: $725
As the fifth most bikeable city in the state, Parkersburg is home to bike-friendly neighborhoods like North Parkersburg and Vienna. Cycle to local parks like Fort Boreman Park, or get a bite to eat at Der Dog Haus with friends after a group ride.
6. Charleston, WV
Bike Score: 28
Median Sale Price: $146,900
Median Rent Price: $850
Charleston is the largest and sixth most bikeable city in West Virginia. With amenities like wide residential streets and local shops, there’s something for every rider. Consider taking a ride with friends to enjoy the views at Riverview Park or the Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve. The Kanawha River also provides a great backdrop for daily rides and commuting.
7. Clarksburg, WV
Bike Score: 28
Median Sale Price: $109,000
Median Rent Price: $935
With a Bike Score of 28, Clarksburg is the seventh most bikeable city in West Virginia. Clarksburg has plenty of amenities a cyclist might need, from wide open trails like the Southern Harrison County Bike and Hike Trail, to gorgeous destinations like Harrison North Rail-Trail. Consider riding with friends, commuting to work, or starting a weekly cycling group.
8. Beckley, WV
Bike Score: 27
Median Sale Price: $189,900
Median Rent Price: $1,125
Known for its bike-friendly neighborhoods like Mabscott and White Stick, Beckley is the eighth most bikeable city in West Virginia. With plenty of amenities like the Beckley Rail Trail, New River Drive, and Fitzpatrick Park, there’s something for every rider. If you’re in the mood for an adventure, consider cycling to the Beckley Motor Speedway.
9. Fairmont, WV
Bike Score: 26
Median Sale Price: $159,450
Median Rent Price: $800
Fairmont has a bike score of 26, making it the ninth most bikeable city in the state. There are a number of parks in Fairmont, like Windmill Park and East Marion Park, that are great cycling destinations. You can also stop at JAG Burger Beer Bowery for a mid-ride snack.
10. Weirton, WV
Bike Score: 20
Median Sale Price: $129,155
Median Rent Price: $700
Weirton is the tenth most bikeable city in the state. The area has many great spots for cyclists, like Harmon Creek Road and Cove Valley Park. Consider planning a route and commuting to work or school if you’re able.
Methodology: Walk Score, a Redfin company, helps people find walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly places to live, rating areas on a scale from 0-100. To calculate a Bike Score for a city, Walk Score measures a location’s bikeability using four equally weighted components: Bike lanes; hills; destinations and road connectivity; and bike commuting and mode share. Points are awarded based on importance and are weighted based on total amounts. Bike Score does not take into account access to restaurants, grocery stores, parks, or other amenities. Bike Score uses data from OpenStreetMap, USGS, and the Census Bureau.
Note: Redfin doesn’t yet operate in West Virginia.
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