Morgantown WV

Morgantown – A mountain town with charm and heart, Morgantown blends scenic beauty, small-town warmth, and the energy of a vibrant college community. Home to West Virginia University, this riverside city invites you to explore rolling hills, cheer with Mountaineer fans, and enjoy local flavors in cozy spots downtown. Whether you're hiking along the Monongahela River or soaking in local music and craft brews, Morgantown is where Appalachian spirit comes alive.

• Population: ~30,000 (city proper); ~130,000 metro area
• Weather: Four-season climate; warm summers (60–85°F), cold snowy winters (20–40°F), colorful fall foliage.
• Places To Visit: WVU Core Arboretum, Monongalia Arts Center, Cheat Lake, Mountaineer Field, Downtown Wharf District.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on the Mon River, biking the rail trails, attending WVU football games, exploring craft breweries, enjoying live music downtown.
• Famous Food: Pepperoni rolls, wood-fired pizzas at Pies & Pints, artisan coffee from Blue Moose, Appalachian-style BBQ, and farm-to-table bites at Iron Horse Tavern.

Morgantown, WV is home to West Virginia University and has a growing presence in healthcare, education, energy, and research. With a thriving college-town atmosphere and modern medical facilities, the city supports several high-demand careers. Below are the top jobs and careers in Morgantown.

Top 5 Jobs in Morgantown, WV

Morgantown, WV is a vibrant college town that offers a variety of spots for students to relax, have fun, and take a break from their busy academic lives. With a mix of natural beauty, cultural spots, and great food, you'll find plenty of options to unwind.

Coopers Rock State Forest – Just a short drive from the city, Coopers Rock offers stunning views, hiking trails, and picnic spots. It’s the perfect place for a dose of fresh air and some outdoor adventure.

The Blue Moose Café – This local favorite offers a cozy atmosphere with great coffee, live music, and a selection of tasty treats. It’s a great spot to get some studying done or just relax with friends.

Lakeview Resort & Lakehouse – For a relaxing day by Cheat Lake, this resort is ideal. Enjoy water activities or dine at the lakeside restaurant while taking in beautiful views.

Metropolitan Theatre – Located downtown, this historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and movie nights, making it a fun spot for some cultural entertainment.

Tilted Mug – For students who enjoy craft brews and a friendly vibe, this bar offers a good selection of drinks and frequently features live music, providing the perfect chill evening.

Whitmore Park – Spend a sunny afternoon relaxing at this park where you can enjoy a leisurely walk, play some frisbee, or have a picnic with friends.

Each of these spots captures the essence of Morgantown's charm and offers students a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment.

Morgantown, West Virginia is a vibrant college town known for its commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community-driven education. With a variety of public and private institutions, Morgantown offers higher education opportunities in fields such as medicine, engineering, arts, business, and education.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Morgantown

West Virginia University (WVU) – The flagship public research university in the state, WVU is known nationally for its programs in medicine, engineering, business, journalism, and law. It offers a dynamic campus life and is a major driver of research and innovation in the region.

Pierpont Community & Technical College (WVU affiliated programs) – While based in Fairmont, Pierpont offers select programs in Morgantown in partnership with WVU. It provides career-oriented education in health sciences, applied technology, and business.

West Virginia Junior College – Morgantown – A private, but state-authorized college offering accessible two-year associate degrees and diploma programs in healthcare, business, and information technology. Though privately operated, it plays a key role in technical training within the Morgantown area.

Morgantown Learning Academy (Higher Ed Connections) – While primarily K–8 focused, the Academy offers community outreach and adult education partnerships with local institutions—serving as a stepping stone to higher education, especially for local adult learners and professionals seeking continuing education credits.

WVU Medicine Academic Partnerships – Through collaborations with WVU Medicine, the university provides advanced clinical education and residency programs in Morgantown. These public health-based learning and medical residency programs support the next generation of healthcare professionals in the region.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Morgantown

Valley College – Morgantown Campus – A private institution focused on career readiness in healthcare, business, and technology. It supports learners with flexible scheduling, online learning options, and career placement services, well-suited for working adults and non-traditional students.

George Washington University School of Medicine Affiliation in Morgantown – GWU has partnerships throughout West Virginia to support medical outreach and education. In Morgantown, students and faculty collaborate with WVU Medicine locations on clinical research and rural health initiatives.

American Public University System (APUS) – Online Programs with West Virginia Roots – Though APUS is headquartered in Charles Town, its expansive offering of online degree programs reaches students in Morgantown and beyond. It remains a popular choice for working professionals and veterans seeking flexible education options in business, technology, and public service.

Salem University (Near Morgantown) – With an accessible online and hybrid course structure, Salem University offers private degree programs in education, business, and criminal justice that serve many students in the Morgantown area. Its flexible learning model appeals to both recent grads and adult learners.

The Learning Disability Association Higher Education Support Center (Private Nonprofit) – Located in Morgantown, this private nonprofit organization supports students with learning disabilities transitioning into higher education. By partnering with local colleges, it plays a key role in inclusive academic pathways and success supports.

Morgantown, West Virginia, is home to several excellent high schools that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong learning. The city offers a strong mix of top-rated public and private institutions that focus on academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth.

Top Public High Schools In Morgantown, WV

• Morgantown High School – Known for its AP course offerings and strong athletics, this school provides a solid academic foundation and numerous extracurricular opportunities.
• University High School – Offers a competitive academic environment with a focus on STEM and college readiness, plus award-winning music and athletic programs.
• Clay-Battelle High School – A smaller school offering a close-knit environment with personalized instruction and a variety of sports and clubs.
• Monongalia County Technical Education Center – While not a traditional high school, this center offers vocational training and technical programs for high school students in the region.
• Preston High School – Located nearby in Kingwood, it serves many Morgantown-area students and offers a strong academic program with career training options.

Top Private High Schools In Morgantown, WV

• Trinity Christian School – A well-regarded private school offering a faith-based education, small class sizes, and a broad curriculum from a Christian worldview.
• St. Francis Central Catholic School – While primarily elementary and middle grades, it prepares students for private high school education, and graduates often move on to regional private schools for continued academic excellence.
• Sisters of St. Joseph Preparatory Academy – Focuses on Catholic education with high academic standards and a commitment to character development.
• Mountaineer Montessori School – Although it currently serves up to middle school levels, plans for future expansion into high school years make it a growing option in the alternative private education space.
• Grace Christian School – Offers a personalized Christian education with strong values, preparing students for college or the workforce with a faith-based foundation.

Morgantown, West Virginia, is best known as the home of West Virginia University and its passionate college sports scene. While it does not host any major league professional sports teams, the city and surrounding region are home to various minor league and semi-professional teams that offer exciting sports entertainment for fans.

🏈 Football – West Virginia Black Knights (Minor League Football)

• West Virginia Black Knights – The Black Knights are a semi-professional football team that competes in minor league circuits. They play locally and bring hard-hitting action to Morgantown. The team provides opportunities for local talent to continue playing the sport they love and often hosts family-friendly events.

⚾ Baseball – West Virginia Black Bears (MLB Draft League)

• West Virginia Black Bears – Based in Granville, right outside Morgantown, the Black Bears play in the MLB Draft League. This collegiate summer baseball team was formerly part of the New York–Penn League. Since their founding in 2015, they have provided a stepping stone for up-and-coming players aiming for the major leagues. The team won the New York–Penn League championship in 2015 during their inaugural season.

🏀 Basketball – West Virginia Grind (Semi-Pro Basketball)

• West Virginia Grind – This semi-professional basketball team is a recent addition to the sports scene and plays in exhibitions and regional competitions. Featuring local and former college athletes, the Grind helps keep the basketball culture alive during the collegiate offseason.

⚽ Soccer – West Virginia United (USL League Two)

• West Virginia United – Based roughly an hour from Morgantown in Charleston, this soccer team plays in USL League Two. While not located directly in the city, the team draws fans from across the state and offers up-and-coming players a chance to shine during the summer league season.

🏒 Ice Hockey – Local Youth and Club Teams

• Morgantown does not currently have a professional hockey team, but ice hockey fans can enjoy games at local rinks that host youth, amateur, and college club hockey teams. West Virginia University’s club hockey team competes at the ACHA level and regularly plays regional opponents.

Though not a hub for major league teams, Morgantown is rich in sports culture. The city’s passionate fan base, especially for WVU Mountaineers athletics, makes it a lively destination for sports fans year-round.

Morgantown, West Virginia might be small, but it’s filled with charm, history, and a unique culture that makes it stand out in the Mountain State. From college pride to outdoor beauty, here are some fun facts about Morgantown:

1. Home of the Mountaineers – Morgantown is the proud home of West Virginia University (WVU), one of the top public universities in the country.
2. Unique Transportation – The city is one of the smallest in the U.S. to have a Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, which shuttles WVU students between campuses.
3. Birthplace of Don Knotts – Legendary actor Don Knotts, famous for playing Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show, was born here in 1924.
4. College Town Vibes – With over 25,000 students attending WVU, Morgantown has the lively energy of a true college town.
5. Outdoor Adventures – The city sits near the Monongahela River and offers great spots for kayaking, hiking, and biking, including the famous Caperton Trail.
6. Touch of Italy – Morgantown is known for its iconic pepperoni rolls, a delicious snack invented in West Virginia and loved by locals.
7. Strong Science Roots – The city is home to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), helping to advance workplace safety research.
8. Game Day Passion – On WVU game days, Milan Puskar Stadium fills with over 60,000 fans, turning the entire city into a sea of gold and blue.
9. Mountains All Around – Morgantown is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, giving it stunning views and four distinct seasons.
10. Live Music Hotspot – From local bands to touring acts, Morgantown has a vibrant live music scene, with venues like 123 Pleasant Street drawing crowds year-round.