Why Monongalia County?
Strategic Location.
Morgantown MSA’s strategic location offers a unique combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and talent. This makes it an ideal location for businesses and individuals seeking a thriving community with endless opportunities.
Morgantown is home to West Virginia University, a major research institution that attracts top talent from around the world. The university’s presence creates a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Nestled along the scenic Monongahela River in north-central West Virginia, Morgantown offers a unique blend of connectivity and natural beauty. Situated along the Monongahela River, the greater Morgantown Area serves as a gateway to the Appalachian Mountains, providing breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Morgantown’s prime location places it within convenient reach of major economic hubs across the Mid-Atlantic. Situated just a short drive from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the region also offers efficient access to the significant markets of Ohio, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. This central positioning allows businesses in Morgantown to tap into a vast consumer base.
Transportation.
Highway System
Morgantown, West Virginia, enjoys excellent connectivity to the rest of the region and beyond. The city is within an 8-hour drive to 2/3 of the US population. Served by a network of major highways, including I-68, I-79, and US-19, Morgantown has convenient access to neighboring states and major metropolitan areas.
Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW)
Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW) one-stop connectivity to anywhere in the world. Regular commercial flights connect the city to major hubs with direct flights to Washington, D.C., and Chicago, IL. Enjoy convenient access to regional and national markets and seamless travel for businesses and residents, making Morgantown an attractive destination.
UnitedExpress
UnitedExpress, operated by SkyWest Airlines offers competitive and affordable airfare. As of 2025, the service offers 12 nonstop roundtrips per week to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) aboard their 50-seat CRJ 200 aircraft. Once at IAD or ORD, passengers will have seamless access to United’s extensive domestic and international flight network, further expanding travel possibilities.
Airports
Further air travel options are offered by Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) located 95 miles away. Clarksburg Airport (CKB), located 33 miles away in Harrison County, offers flights to Charlotte, NC and Orlando, FL.
Additional Connectivity Advantages
Morgantown’s robust transportation infrastructure ensures that businesses and residents have the connectivity they need to thrive in today’s global economy.
- Major Highways: I-68, I-79, and US-19 provide direct access to Pittsburgh, PA, and other major cities in the region.
- Rail Service: CSX Transportation provides freight rail service, supporting the movement of goods and materials.
- Public Transportation: Mountain Line Transit Authority offers bus services within the city and surrounding areas. WVU’s Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) people-mover connects students, faculty, staff and community members to their destination on campus.
- Water: The Monongahela River is Designated Marine Highway. It is a navigable waterway with a minimum 9-foot channel depth.
Infrastructure.
Electric Power: Mon Power Company (part of FirstEnergy Corp.) whose rates consistently rank among the lowest in the nation.
Natural Gas Distributors: Hope Gas, Mountaineer Gas
Sewage Treatment: Morgantown Utility Board System (Secondary treatment, 12 MGD capacity, 65% present load ), and 3 PSDs.
Water Treatment: Morgantown Utility Board (Source – Monongahela River, 14.5 MGD capacity, 72% present load) and 4 PSDs, 1 water associations.
Solid Waste Disposal: Mountain State Waste, Republic Services
Fuel Oil Distributors: 4 local vendors.
LP Gas Distributors: 4 local vendors.
Major Employers.
West Virginia’s 10 Largest Private Employers:
- WVU Medicine
- Vandalia Health
- Marshall Health
- Wal-mart Associates, Inc.
- WVNH EMP, LLC
- Contura Energy
- Kroger
- Toyota Manufacturing
- Arch Coal
- Lowe’s Home Centers
