Location Research & Data.
Morgantown MSA Labor Market.
The Morgantown Metropolitan Statistical Area offers a diverse and highly skilled labor market, boasting more than 73,000 workers. Expanding beyond Monongalia and Preston counties, the larger regional market—including three additional counties in West Virginia and two adjacent counties in Pennsylvania—encompasses over 207,000 workers.
West Virginia University and local high schools produce a renewable labor force, with more than 6,000 graduates entering the workforce annually.
Workforce Highlights.
26%+ of Monongalia County residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. West Virginia University is a top 100 research institution, enrolling over 26,000 students and awarding more than 6,000 degrees annually. The region provides an educated, motivated and loyal workforce, consistently praised by employers.
Key Employment Sectors.
Employment across nearly all sectors in the Morgantown MSA is poised for growth. The top sectors include:
- Transportation & Logistics
- Restaurants & Hospitality
- Education & Health Services
- Construction & Infrastructure
- Banking & Finance
- Insurance & Professional Services
- Legal & Membership Organizations
- Technology & Computer Services
- Retail & Grocery
- Entertainment & Recreation
Quality of Life in Morgantown.
Morgantown MSA offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities. The area is home to over 142,000 residents, with an affordable cost of living, top-tier education, world-class healthcare and diverse recreational opportunities.
Morgantown is Recognized For:
A safe, healthy community, designated as a Safe Community by the West Virginia University-Greater Morgantown Safe Community initiative. It is one of the top small towns in America, thanks to its mix of education, healthcare, technology and recreation. A strong economy supported by West Virginia University, leading employers and expanding industries.
Housing in Morgantown.
Monongalia County provides diverse and affordable housing options across multiple communities. With waterfront homes, downtown apartments and rural retreats, Morgantown caters to various lifestyles.
Housing Market Statistics:
- 49,935 total housing units
- 55.6% homeownership rate
- $254,200 median housing value
- $305,000 median sales price
- $1,498 average rent (compared to $2,000 national average)
- $1,672 average mortgage payment
Education
Public Schools in Monongalia County
- Monongalia County Schools is consistently ranked a top 3 best school district in the state.
- 19 Public Schools (10 Elementary, 4 Middle, 3 High Schools, 1 Alternative Education, 1 Career Technical Education Center)
- Student-Teacher Ratio: 14:1
Private Schools in Monongalia County
- Amplify Children’s Academy
- Chestnut Mountain Ranch
- Covenant Christian School
- Morgantown Christian Academy
- Morgantown Learning Academy
- Morgantown Montessori
- St. Francis Central Catholic School
- Trinity Baptist Family School
- Trinity Christian School
Colleges & Universities
- West Virginia University – A top 100 research university with 300+ degree programs.
- Fairmont State University – 40+ degree programs.
Community, Career & Technical Education
- Pierpont Community & Technical College – Specializing in applied sciences and workforce training.
- Monongalia County Technical Education Center – Hands-on technical training for various industries.
- Laurel Institute of Technology – Specializing in healthcare, techonology, trades and cosmetology.
- Morgantown Beauty College – Specializing in beauty and massage.
Healthcare.
Morgantown is a statewide healthcare leader. West Virginia’s top 2 medical institutions feature state-of-the-art medical facilities and cutting-edge research.
Leading Healthcare Providers
- WVU Medicine – The state’s largest healthcare provider, with flagship hospital Ruby Memorial.
- Mon Health Medical Center – A 189-bed hospital specializing in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics and more.
- Preston Memorial Hospital – Providing 24/7 emergency care and specialized treatment services.
