Named after Stephen Benton Elkins, a former U.S. Senator, Elkins is not only the Randolph County's seat, but also a popular destination. With stunning landscapes, a quaint downtown area and vibrant arts community, Elkins, West Virginia is a city worth making your home.
Nestled between rolling hills and lush forests on the bend of the Tygart Valley River, Elkins is a picturesque town, to say the least
Named after Stephen Benton Elkins, a former U.S. Senator, Elkins is not only the Randolph County's seat, but also a popular destination. With stunning landscapes, a quaint downtown area and vibrant arts community, Elkins, West Virginia is a city worth making your home.
Nestled between rolling hills and lush forests on the bend of the Tygart Valley River, Elkins is a picturesque town, to say the least. Judging by the active art community, the beautiful surroundings are so awe-inspiring it makes the locals sing, make music and do all kinds of creative things. In summer, the hills come alive with the sound of Bluegrass, Old Time, Irish, Cajun and other music, when musicians flock to Elkins from far and wide for the Augusta Heritage Festival. As the leaves turn to gold, Elkins has yet another reason to celebrate with the annual Mountain State Forest Festival.
What's on the Menu?
You won't only encounter delectable food, but also a wide selection of rental homes in Elkins to suit all tastes. The vast majority of houses in Elkins are single, detached units, which means that free-standing houses are most abundant. However, there are a couple of townhouses and apartment complexes for those looking for cozier accommodation. Over 41% of all housing units in Elkins have three bedrooms, and although these are mainly family homes, you will also find some three-bedroom apartments.
Costs
You are in luck, because rent in Elkins is 37% cheaper than what the average American pays, which means you may be able to afford a bigger unit than you originally had in mind. Add to the fact that living here is also cheaper when you look at the grocery basket, healthcare and utilities and you may want to pack your bags immediately to start saving some money for that ski-trip.
Securing an Apartment
Once you have done an online search and narrowed it down to a couple of home rentals you would like to view in Elkins, you need to prepare appropriately for your meetings. Get a decent-looking file or ledger and fill it with all the things you will need for your application: social security number and other personal details, proof of monthly income and, if possible, positive references from previous landlords.
Finding your next home in Elkins is as easy as picking the neighborhood that you want to live in.
Elkins Junction / Sullivan: This area consists mainly of single-family homes, built between the 1970s and 1990. It may be a bit challenging to find rentals here, as most houses in this neighborhood are owner-occupied. Shopaholics can go get their fix at the Tygart Valley Mall, while the River Bend Park and Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area are great for a picnic or a breath of fresh air.
City Center / Davis & Elkins College: The City Center is also the location of the campus of the Davis & Elkins College, one of the best colleges in the area. This is where you will find your main apartment communities, such as the Tygart Valley Apartments and Randolph Village Apartments.
Leadsville / Fairview: This is a more rural area, including some houses on the outer fringes of the city, as well as the area beyond. Houses here are mainly from the 1970s to 1990s and rent is quite affordable in this neighborhood.
Walking through Elkins is a pleasure to behold. It is officially recognized as a Tree City so, thanks to the tree huggers, you will enjoy the fresh air and tree-lined streets. Many residents enjoy walking to work daily and about just as many carpool. However, if you feel like getting out of town every now and then, owning a car would be your best bet.
If you love conquering the skies, there is a regional airport about two miles south from town. Despite Elkins' small size, the city has a host of things to do, recreationally: go cave crawling in one of the four natural caves in the area, go whitewater rafting in the Tygart River or just enjoy hiking in the forest. For a taste of art and culture, you can go see one of the local plays at the American Mountain Theater in the historic rail yard or visit the Artists at Work to see some beautiful artworks.
If all of this leaves you with a rumbling tummy, The Graceland Inn, Cheat River Inn and Pub, 1863 Tavern and C.J. Maggie's American Grill are great places to still those hunger pangs. Above all, when in Elkins, just enjoy nature, the friendly people and the great festivals.
