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    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. West Virginia
    2. Mercer County

    Major cities or towns:

    Bluefield
    Princeton
    Athens
    Mercer County, West Virginia is situated in the southern part of the state, featuring a diverse landscape of rolling hills, valleys, and the Bluestone River. The climate is humid continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The population is around 60,000, with a median age of 40 and a mix of urban and rural communities. The economy is driven by healthcare, education, and tourism, though manufacturing and mining also play a role. Cost of living is lower than the national average, and the housing market offers affordable options. The public school system provides K-12 education, while nearby colleges and universities offer higher ed opportunities. Healthcare is anchored by Princeton Community Hospital. Cultural attractions include performing arts venues, museums, and outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The transportation network includes highways and airports, though public transit is limited. Crime rates are generally lower than state and national averages, contributing to a family-friendly, close-knit community vibe. Overall, Mercer County offers a blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and economic opportunity for those seeking an affordable, safe place to call home.

    Demographics

    Population

    59K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    92
    Black
    6
    Asian
    1
    Hispanic
    1

    Median Age

    43.1

    Density

    5 of 10

    149 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.0

    Religious

    52%

    Foreign Born

    2%

    Veterans

    7.6%

    Adult Smokers

    26%

    Adult Obesity

    38%

    Uninsured

    8%

    Excessive Drinking

    14%

    Poverty Rate

    16.8%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    3.1 hours winter dailyPartly sunny

    Summer average temp

    85°F

    Winter max temp

    43°F

    Precipitation

    41 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    37.8 (high)

    Drought risk

    Very Low

    Earthquake risk

    Low

    Wildfire risk

    Low

    Tornado risk

    Low

    Hurricane risk

    Very Low

    Crime

    Rank: 1.0 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    1 (0.2)

    Property

    1 (2)

    Assault

    1 (0.2)

    Larceny (theft)

    1 (2)

    Robbery

    1 (0.0)

    Burglary

    1 (0.3)

    Rape

    1 (0.00)

    Auto Theft

    1 (0.1)

    Murder

    1 (0.00)

    Arson

    1 (0.00)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    19%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Red (Republican)

    Abortion laws

    Illegal, limited exceptions

    Marijuana laws

    Legal for medical use

    Gun Laws

    No Permits Required

    Democrat

    22%

    Republican

    76%

    State Tax Burden

    8.84%

    Cigarette Tax

    $1.2

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $57,676

    Unemployment

    4.1%

    Employment

    49.2%

    Hours worked

    41.7

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    3.2 / 10

    Water Area

    0.05%

    Near park?

    61%

    Beaches

    Not near the coast

    Mountains

    Less than 1 hour

    Tree Area

    68%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    75%

    Median Home Price

    $127K

    Average Rent

    $880

    Internet over 25mbps

    59%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    19

    Cycling

    11

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    >2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    22

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    2 of 10  

    (avg: -0.23)

    College graduates

    19%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown