CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK) — According to data from the United States Census Bureau, Charlestons population has dropped more than 2,500 people since 2010. Jobs like manufacturing, coal and chemical plants are slowly leaving the state, resulting in higher unemployment.

Why is Charleston WV shrinking?

U.S. Census Bureau data released Monday confirms a continued economic and population decline linked to the demise of the coal industry. A loss of more than the population of the states largest city – Charleston. West Virginia, one of three states to lose people, had the biggest population decline in the nation.

Why are people leaving West Virginia?

Because of that, West Virginia was one of only seven states to lose a congressional seat following the 2020 census. Reasons for leaving vary, but common themes emerge: a lack of opportunity or low pay; not enough to do; a political climate that some find oppressive, and poor cellphone and internet service.

Is Charleston WV growing?

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — According to U.S. census data, from 2014 to 2019 the City of Charleston shrunk from 50,133 residents to 46,536 residents. Charlestons -1.5 percent annual growth rate is bigger than cities like Albany, Georgia, and Decatur, Illinois, which followed Charleston in second and third place.

Is West Virginia a bad place to live?

West Virginia boasts extremely low home prices, a low tax rate, and a low cost of living. Most areas are fairly quiet, and the outdoor recreation cant be beaten. However, extreme poverty, terrible schools, rampant drug use, and a rough job market makes it hard for many to live here.