Why Live in Bluefield
Nestled at the base of the East River mountain range, Bluefield is a former coal town in West Virginia undergoing revitalization. Known as "Nature's Air-Conditioned City" due to its cool mountain climate, Bluefield rarely sees temperatures above 90 degrees, a rarity celebrated with free lemonade since 1939. The downtown area, once bustling with shops like JCPenney and Montgomery Ward, is experiencing a resurgence with new restaurants and the renovated Granada Theater, which hosts movies and concerts. The Railyard is a local favorite for burgers and milkshakes. Bluefield offers affordable housing, with single-family homes priced at a median of $150,000, and features various styles including condos, townhouses, mobile homes, and historic properties in the South Bluefield Historic District. The district showcases Colonial Revival, Four Square, and Neoclassical Revival homes from the 1930s and '40s. Bluefield High School and Graham High School in Virginia have a notable football rivalry, drawing local support. The area is served by Mercer County Schools, with Bluefield schools providing a dedicated kindergarten through Grade 12 pipeline. Bluefield State University and Bluefield University attract younger residents with diverse academic programs. Outdoor activities are abundant, with Winterplace Ski Resort 33 miles away and the New River offering kayaking and rafting. City Park boasts a 14-mile trail network, and the annual Lemonade Festival in August features vendors, bounce houses, and a parade. Bluefield Area Transit provides bus routes, and U.S. Route 460 connects to Interstate 77. Bluefield Regional Medical Center offers comprehensive healthcare services. Crime rates are lower than the national average, with the police department actively engaging with the community.