South Charleston, WV

Sitting just across the Kanawha River from West Virginia's capital, South Charleston gives you the perks of living near the state's main hub while keeping a laid-back, close-knit feel. Home to about 13,500 people, the city is a popular landing spot for commuters who want a bit more space and an easy drive into downtown Charleston via Interstate 64.

ATTRWVhybrid / CC BY-SA 3.0

The heart of town centers on D Street, where local businesses sit alongside community staples like the historic LaBelle Theater and the ancient Criel Mound. For weekend recreation, residents head to Little Creek Park for hiking trails and sports fields, or visit the community center for indoor activities. Families have access to Kanawha County schools, and those pursuing higher education or career training will find Marshall University's South Charleston campus and BridgeValley Community and Technical College right in town.