Mountainous West Virginia city working toward revitalization
At the base of the East River mountain range in southernmost West Virginia, Bluefield is a former coal town on the rise. Bluefield's cool mountain climate earns it the nickname "Nature's Air-Conditioned City," and temperatures reaching 90 are rare enough that they are cause for a free lemonade — a Bluefield tradition since 1939. The coal industry's downturn has caused economic decline in Bluefield and the surrounding region for many years. However, the city is working toward financial and community development. "Bluefield has renovated a lot of the town, and now it has neat restaurants and a movie theater," says Britney Greer, Realtor and Salesperson with Country Roads Real Estate. "It's coming back to life."
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Movies and dining in growing downtown Bluefield
In its heyday, downtown Bluefield was a busy shopping destination with a JCPenney, Montgomery Ward and other storefronts. The addition of Mercer Mall, just east, led shoppers away from the city center. But the foot traffic is coming back, Greer says. In 2024, the city kicked off a long-awaited project to tear down seven buildings and make way for new opportunities. Downtown mainstays include places like the Railyard, which serves burgers and milkshakes. Next door, the newly renovated Granada Theater plays movies and hosts concerts. Grant's Supermarket sells meats and fresh produce in Bluefield, while residents can head to nearby Princeton for Kroger and Walmart.
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Low prices and high demand in Bluefield
Like West Virginia, Bluefield is attractive for its affordability, Greer says. Bluefield's single-family homes are on the market for a median price of $150,000 —nearly a third of the national median. However, the city struggles to meet the demand for apartments and homes. Various styles line the sloping streets, including condos, townhouses, mobile homes and historic properties. The South Bluefield Historic District features stately Colonial Revival, Four Square and Neoclassical Revival homes from the 1930s and '40s on large, manicured lots.
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Bluefield High and Graham High battle for the win
With a longstanding rivalry between Bluefield High School in West Virginia and Graham High School across the border in Virginia, locals show up to support their hometown football team. "It's a big tailgating event when they play," Greer says. The area is served by Mercer County Schools, which covers Bluefield and several surrounding towns. While the district encompasses 24 schools, Bluefield has a dedicated kindergarten through Grade 12 pipeline. Bluefield Primary, Intermediate, Middle and High Schools earn between C-plus and B-minus grades from Niche.
Bluefield draws in a younger crowd with two nearby Universities. Bluefield State University is a public, historically black university offering various graduate and undergraduate programs. It features colleges of arts, education and social sciences, business, STEM and health sciences. Across the border in Virginia, Bluefield University is a private Baptist university with 36 undergraduate and 15 graduate programs.
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Rafting on the New River
Mountain beauty is one of Bluefield's draws, from the flowering blue chicory in the summer — which gave the city its name — to the fiery fall foliage. Locals venture about 33 miles to Winterplace Ski Resort for winter sports and to the New River for kayaking and rafting. Hiking and biking are popular pastimes, and City Park features a 14-mile trail network. A recreation center features group fitness programs, and a dozen city-run parks provide sports facilities, playgrounds, and green space.
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Bluefield cools down at the Lemonade Festival
Bluefield turned its love of lemonade into an annual celebration. Whether the temperature hits 90 or not, the Lemonade Festival takes place each August, featuring vendors, bounce houses and a parade. In keeping with tradition, the festival is free. In the latter half of the year, the city sets up a drive-through light show at City Park. "My son likes to drive through it because they change it up every year, so it's not like if you've seen it once, you've seen it forever," Greer says.
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Public transit to Mercer and McDowell Counties
Bluefield is relatively remote, but there are convenient transportation options. Bluefield Area Transit provides bus routes throughout Mercer and McDowell counties. U.S. Route 460 crosses through the city and connects to the interstate system. Interstate 77 is within easy reach, just east. In 2024, the city was awarded a $25 million Department of Transportation grant to improve pedestrian infrastructure. The grant will add bike lanes, sidewalks and crosswalks on College Avenue, among other changes. Bluefield Regional Medical Center is the only hospital in the city and provides inpatient, outpatient, diagnostic, medical, surgical and emergency care. About 50 miles north, Raleigh County Memorial Airport offers direct flights to Charlotte, Tampa and Douglas International Airport.
Bluefield has a history tied to the railroad industry.
Rt 77 is a major highway inthe region running through Bluefield.
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Lower-than-average crime rates
According to FBI data, violent and property crime trends have been below state and national averages over the past five years. The Bluefield Police Department engages with the community through presentations at schools, civic organizations, and other city groups. Through the Fraternal Order of Police, officers also donate charitable time and dollars through back-to-school shopping programs and other endeavors.
Written By
Liz Coughlin
Photography Contributed By
David MacNeill
Video By
Emily McNamara
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Bluefield, WV sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Bluefield, WV over the last 12 months is $195,000, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Located just minutes from Bluefield's local amenities, this property offers a convenient setting close to the college, restaurants, and everyday essentials. Public utilities are available at the road, making it an easy starting point for future plans. Call today for more info!
Welcome to this beautifully updated, charming home where comfort and style come together effortlessly. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate the thoughtful upgrades and inviting atmosphere.The kitchen serves as the heart of the home, designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining, with a natural flow into the surrounding living areas. The lower-level game room offers a
Classic charm and move in ready -- 1028 James St is exactly what you've been waiting for! Beautiful hardwood flooring leads you through the door into your kitchen and living room open concept floorplan. Brand new kitchen with new lighting, counters, cabinets and appliances. Make your way down the hall to your bedrooms and brand new full bathrooms. Brand new electric Heat Pump to enjoy peace of
Welcome to 404 Oakhurst Avenue, a remarkable Colonial Revival estate designed by renowned architect Alex B. Mahood and built in 1926. Rich in history and architectural character, this extraordinary residence seamlessly blends timeless elegance with the comforts of modern living. Situated on approximately one acre behind electric gated entry, the home offers expansive living space featuring 4
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Charming brick ranch in beautiful Bluefield, WV! Pull into your new home with three bedrooms, two bathrooms a nice garage and a private yard to enjoy! Classic hardwood flooring flows throughout leading you to your updated kitchen with new cabinets and counters. Nice basement space for recreation room or storage along with a spacious driveway to park multiple cars. This house has a lot to offer
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Welcome home to this adorable 3-bedroom, 3-bath home in the heart of Bluefield, WV! Full of character and timeless charm, this home offers plenty of space for the whole family to spread out and enjoy. The kitchen features updated appliances, making everyday living both functional and convenient. Outside, you'll love the secluded yard, providing the perfect setting to relax, entertain, or enjoy a
This beautiful brick home blends classic charm with everyday comfort, offering 3 beds and 3 full baths in a convenient location. Warm, gleaming hardwood floors run throughout the home, adding character and style to the spacious living areas. The large living room creates the perfect space for gathering with family and friends, while the kitchen offers plenty of room to cook & entertain.
Immaculate Oakwood manufactured home on a permanent foundation that looks and feels like new! This well loved 3 bedroom, 2 bath home sits on two lots with awesome views. Enjoy an attached 2 car oversized garage with a 10' door, plus a 1-car carport for extra parking. Relax on the front or rear deck or in the enclosed sunroom. The remodeled primary bath features a handicapped-accessible walk-in
Step inside and experience the charm of this one-of-a-kind home. Soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, and an open floor plan create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the beautifully updated kitchen is perfect for gathering. The loft overlooks the main living area, and the upper-level deck offers peaceful wooded views. An attached garage, storage shed, and spacious deck complete this exceptional
Property Id: 2025856 Looking for a turn key property? Newly renovated and within walking distance to restaurants and amenities that downtown Bluefield has to offer! Brand new heat pump as well as new plumbing and electrical! The metal roof and water heater installed summer of 2022! New appliances, all of which will convey! This includes new washer, dryer, range, and refrigerator! Both
Welcome to this newly remodeled Bluefield WV home at 1219 East Dr. This timeless abode features sturdy construction topped with a NEW sleek metal roof, offering durability and classic appeal. Step inside to discover a haven of modern comforts and thoughtful upgrades, including brand-new plumbing upgrades, stainless steel appliances (stove, fridge, dishwasher) that add a touch of luxury to your
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