This city is catching the attention of outdoor enthusiasts
Located at the confluence of the Coal and Kanawha rivers, about 10 miles from the state capital, Charleston, Saint Albans is revered for its outdoor recreation options. Home to a small population of around 10,000, interest in this city grew after Forbes named it one of the "best places to travel" in 2023. In addition to its natural landscapes, Saint Albans is also widely known for its rich history. The area’s indigenous past dates back more than 9,000 years, while the buildings of Saint Albans' downtown district showcase the city’s modern history. “When you’re out there, you feel like you are going back in time,” says Lisa Eden, a local Realtor with Old Colony of Teays Valley. “It’s got that quaint little town feel to it.”
Coal River kayaking and the annual Yak Fest
Nicknamed the “Flatwater Capital of West Virginia” Saint Albans has become a hotspot for kayakers looking to paddle along the Coal River. Saint Albans is also the end point for Tour De Coal, the nation’s largest flatwater kayaking event. Sports enthusiasts come from across the region to attend this mid-June event, which runs in tandem with the city’s two-day Yak Fest. Yak is short for kayak and "[This event] has become extremely popular, to the point where it almost looks like there’s no space on the river because there are so many kayakers out there,” says Eden. The festival flows into downtown, with Main Street closing off for the celebration's live music performances, food and craft beer.
Saint Albans City Park's varying opportunities
Residents also have access to the water via the area's shoreline parks. Saint Albans City Park is the most frequented and combines walking trails with a dog park and athletic facilities. The park's adjoining public pool fills up during the warm and humid summer season, while the Albans Arts Center hosts a variety of productions and shows that carry locals through the cold but short winters. Formerly named the Alban Theater, this intimate venue has been a downtown staple since its opening in 1938.
From mid-1800s homes to waterfront communities
The median price for a single-family home in Saint Albans is $160,000, or less than half the national figure. Properties date back to the early mid-1800s and surround the city’s downtown district. While mid-20th century suburbs became the bulk of the housing stock when the residential landscape expanded. Farther out, additional options present a breathable rural feel and offer a relatively similar price point despite larger plot sizes. Homebuyers will also find waterfront properties in neighborhoods like Jefferson. “There is more affordable living on the river here than in Charleston,” Eden says.
Eat local along Main Street
Saint Alban’s Main Street Historic District has experienced a resurgence in recent years thanks to tax incentives provided by the city. Walkable sidewalks carry visitors to locally owned establishments that sit within longstanding storefronts, each showcasing a personality of its own. “It has mom and pop type restaurants that everyone in the area loves,” Eden says. Specialty stores fill the remainder of the district, while national retailers and supermarkets dot MacCorkle Avenue on the city’s northern side.
Kanawha Coutny Schools serves the city
Students here attend Kanawha County Schools, the largest district in the state, which maintains a B-minus rating on Niche. It's also known as a Purple Star District for its efforts in supporting military children and their families. The St. Francis of Assisi School offers private education for kindergarten through sixth-grade students. West Virginia State University is on the other side of the Kanawha River and is the area’s leading higher education institution.
Getting around on MacCorkle Avenue
MacCorkle Avenue connects residents to Charleston's attractions and employers nearby. “It’s a main road, but we consider it a back road,” Eden says. “It’s a good route to take if there are issues on Interstate 64. Sometimes, it’s a standstill if traffic backs up.” The throughway provides access to Interstate 64, which cuts through Charleston and runs north to West Virginia International Yeager Airport. Kanawa Valley Regional Transportation Authority, or KRT, offers bus stops throughout the city, including one at WVU Medicine–Thomas Memorial Hospital just east.
Saint Albans' crime statistics and flooding risks
According to FBI data, incidents of property crime fell in 2023, while violent crimes increased. However, crime rates in Saint Albans fall below that of Charleston and the state. FEMA data shows that Saint Albans is susceptible to flooding following torrential downpours. More specifically, properties and roads situated close to the rivers are at higher risk.
