Laid-back living on Kanawha River's southern banks
South Charleston’s early growth came after a streetcar connected the city to West Virginia's capital across the Kanawha River in the early 1900s. This development continued throughout the century following the arrival of a U.S. Navy armor plant and projectile factory during World War I and its heavy involvement in the chemical industry. Decades later, a laid-back nature away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Charleston defines the city of just over 13,000. “It’s more of a community than a city,” says Donna Grass, owner of Donna Grass Realty and former longtime resident. “The people there are so warm and welcoming."
South Charleston, WV, is situated along the Kanawha River, which serves as an important hub for commerce and recreation in the region.
Art along D Street adds a vibrant and creative flair to South Charleston, WV.
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Mid-to-late 20th century homes fill most of the city
The city’s median price for a single-family home is $226,000, about half the national figure and cheaper than the neighboring capital city. “The closer you get to Charleston, the higher the home costs become,” Grass says. Mid-to-late 20th-century suburbs with a wide range of architectural styles comprise most of South Charleston's residential landscape. Grass notes the city’s slow development is partly due to the steep terrain of the mountainous area. However, a handful of newly built subdivisions appear across the city, where home prices can reach just over $650,000. Waterfront properties are also on the city's higher end and typically feature private docks.
Newly built subdivisions are emerging throughout the city, adding to South Charleston's, WV, evolving residential landscape.
South Charleston's residential landscape consists of mid-to-late 20th-century suburbs.
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Annual gatherings and free movies at LaBelle Theatre
Residents convene at several city-wide events throughout the year. “They have all kinds of festivals that go on here, like antique and car shows,” Grass says. “They also have the typical Veterans Day and Christmas parades, which everyone shows up for.” Locals also frequent the longstanding LaBelle Theatre on D Street. A local group runs Movies $4 Less at the theatre, which aims to keep the historic theatre's allure alive through free admission to classic films and newly released movies courtesy of local business sponsorships.
From Indegenous earth mounds to the South Charleston Community Center
The Criel Burial Mound overlooks South Charleston's city center. Experts say the indigenous Adena people built the historic site as far back as 1,000 B.C. Visitors can learn more about it at the South Charleston Interpretive Center of the Mound and Midland Trail. Little Creek Park offers nature immersion on the city’s southwestern quadrant. Hikers and bikers traverse the park’s forested trails that wind past The Rock Sports Complex, which hosts youth sports practices and games. Little Creek Golf Course offers an 18-hole public course and provides discounts for city residents. South Charleston Community Center caters to year-round recreation, with various recreational facilities and an indoor pool.
Little Creek Park offers scenic walking paths, making it the perfect spot for a stroll with your dog and friends, surrounded by nature in South Charleston, WV.
Little Creek Golf Course features an 18-hole public course and offers discounted rates for South Charleston, WV, residents.
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Kanawha County Schools rank high in diversity
Students generally attend Kanawha County Schools. The district has a B-minus rating on Niche, which ranks it the third-most diverse in the state. South Charleston High School’s Travel Club partners with EF Educational Tours, allowing interested students to travel to different countries and learn about other cultures beyond the Mountain State. Nearby higher education institutions include BridgeValley Community and Technical College and Marshall University’s South Charleston Campus.
South Charleston High School is a public high school located in South Charleston, West Virginia, serving students in grades 9 through 12.
Marshall University’s South Charleston Campus is a prominent higher education institution located in South Charleston, WV.
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Shopping along D Street and Corridor G
Folks across the greater area head into the city to shop at the big-box stores and supermarkets off of Corridor G. Riverwalk Plaza is close to the waterfront and is home to more national stores, including Kroger, Dollar Tree and T.J. Maxx. Locally owned restaurants dot McCorkle Avenue alongside several chain spots. However, Grass notes several shops and boutiques line D Street but many head into downtown Charleston to grab a bite to eat, as it offers a more robust selection. Similarly, the neighboring Charleston Town Center offers more than 40 indoor retailers.
Folks across South Charleston, WV, shop at the big-box stores, such as TJ Maxx.
Friends in the neighborhood can explore the boutiques that line D Street, in South Charleston WV.
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Commutes into Charleston are quick
Grass notes that though the city has a couple of plants, most residents head into Charleston for work. Interstate 64 runs through the north side, linking commuters to the capital city’s healthcare, manufacturing and government jobs. “You can get to wherever you need to be around Charleston in 7 minutes,” Grass says. Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority also provides bus stops along MacCorkle Avenue, which includes a stop at WVU Medicine’s Thomas Memorial Hospital.
South Charleston's crime statistics and snow preparedness
According to FBI data, both property and violent crime in South Charleston decreased from 2022 to 2023. The city experiences the full range of seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Grass shares that although snowfall does occur, the city responds quickly after a heavy dusting. “They are one of the first to get out there and clean the roads up so you can go about your business,” she says.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
Photography Contributed By
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Video By
Emily McNamara
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in South Charleston, WV sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in South Charleston, WV over the last 12 months is $127,500, down 35% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Nestled on a beautiful river lot, this charming three-bedroom, one-bath home offers peaceful living with scenic views. Enjoy relaxing mornings on the covered front porch and unwind on the spacious covered 23'3x13'9 back deck overlooking the serene river—perfect for entertaining or quiet evenings. The home features a whole-house generator for added peace of mind, a 31'6x23'3 attached two-car
Is 2026 the year you live on the river in South Charleston? 3 bedrooms, 3 fully remodeled bathrooms, updated kitchen, new flooring, 1 main floor bedroom, main floor laundry room, finished lower level, great deck on river to enjoy the views. Extra storage building for all your hobbies. 1 car garage plus extra parking for 6-8 cars.
Christina Pepper
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Professional Real
Raised ranch home offering main floor with updated kitchen & bath, 2 bedrooms, large living room and dining room, laundry room in 2 car garage, lower lever has opportunity for rental if needed with 1 bedroom, full bath, large family room with kitchenette, den, separate laundryroom, private entrance, deck and plenty of parking. Great value for the money!
Christina Pepper
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Professional Real
One-story ranch home with extra large 3-car garage in coveted location with country charm, award winning schools, convenient location close to town & all amenities. Well maintained with newer roof, gutters, heating & cooling and even appliance! Outbuilding has electric, perfect for a workshop. Open dining & living areas perfect for entertaining w/ a large family room and a screened sun room
Enjoy breathtaking views from this spacious ranch home offering incredible versatility! The main residence features 3 bedrooms, 2 beautifully updated baths, a large eat-in kitchen with new appliances, refinished hardwood floors, new deck, and attached garage.A brand-new, fully handicap-accessible apartment adds even more value — complete with 1 bedroom, sitting room, full kitchen with granite
Christina Pepper
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Professional Real
Great investment opportunity in the desirable South Charleston area! This well-maintained and recently updated 4-unit apartment complex features four units, each offering private direct access, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and washer/dryer hookups. All units are fully rented, providing immediate and consistent cash flow. Each apartment includes a spacious living room, two generously sized bedrooms with
This all-brick duplex features two full units, each about 1,358 square feet. Both have separate entrances, kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms. It's perfect for someone who wants to live in one unit and rent out the other or rent both for steady income. Property Details: Upstairs unit is rented for $750 per month and will be vacant at closing, same as the downstairs unit. Market rent is
The amazing 9 acres visible from Corridor G are so beautiful they will remind you of a State Park. This would be perfect for urban hunting, commercial use, or signage posts for marketing use. There is one tear-down home on this property. Utilities are available. You must see this stunning piece of land.
Josie MooreBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central
Charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home featuring a spacious kitchen with newer appliances and plenty of room for cooking and gathering. Enjoy a large front yard perfect for outdoor activities, gardening, or simply relaxing. Located in a convenient area close to shopping, dining, and majorroutes, this home offers everyday comfort with easy access to everything you need.
Marie McDavidBetter Homes and Gardens Real Estate Central
This house goes on forever! With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 full kitchens and separate entrances to each level of the home - this would be great for multiple long or short term tenants! Just off the main kitchen is a covered deck that allows you to enjoy your morning coffee while taking in views of the city and your extra large deck off the lower level for entertaining down below! With plenty of
MAINTENANCE FREE LIVING! This second story Kenna homes unit offers maintenance free living with a welcoming community! In the heart of South Charleston, Kenna homes sits close to the capital city and just a short drive from Southridge Shopping Plaza. The interior of the unit contains a spacious living room, accompanied by three bedrooms carpeted throughout. The kitchen offers open space for an
1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments and 3 & 4 bedroom townhomes.Coming in 2024 Brand New Pool, Community room, Learning Center with computers, and fitness room!!Come see our new look!
Discover More at Country Club Village. Enjoy country living in a secluded gated community area just 5 minutes from downtown Charleston, West Virginia. Nestled among the trees and rolling hills, Country Club Village offers luxury living at its best. From a one bedroom apartment to a multi-level townhouse with a garage, we have a floor plan that’s right for you. With a peaceful, serene setting
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