First Ward, Morgantown,WV

First Ward, nestled in the southeast part of Morgantown, WV, is a charming neighborhood that perfectly blends historic character with modern convenience. For those relocating to the area, First Ward offers a unique mix of beautiful old homes and vibrant local culture, making it a welcoming spot for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout attractions here is the Monongalia Arts Center, where residents can enjoy a variety of community events, art exhibitions, and live performances, fostering a strong sense of local pride and creativity.

Living in First Ward means being just a short distance away from Downtown Morgantown, making it incredibly easy to enjoy the bustling city life without sacrificing the cozy neighborhood feel. Whether you're commuting for work or planning a night out, the quick access to downtown’s restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues is a huge plus. Plus, the area is close to the scenic Deckers Creek Trail, a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for hiking, biking, and peaceful strolls along the water, offering a perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

For families moving to First Ward, the neighborhood boasts proximity to excellent schools and local parks, creating a supportive environment for children to grow and thrive. The community often hosts neighborhood events, bringing neighbors together and fostering a friendly atmosphere that's hard to find elsewhere. With a blend of cultural hubs, convenient downtown access, and outdoor activities, First Ward in Morgantown is truly a wonderful place to call home for anyone looking to settle in this vibrant West Virginia city.

18% of the First Ward population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 18% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

First Ward demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,570 residents, First Ward is notably smaller than many other Morgantown neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,593 people per square mile, First Ward offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Morgantown neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 42, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The First Ward crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In First Ward, the median home price is about $246,960, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in First Ward have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $980, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like First Ward. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in First Ward offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.