Considering a move to Morgantown, WV? If you crave a neighborhood that blends community warmth, practical convenience, and green spaces, Evansdale should be high on your list. Situated just west of the Monongahela River, Evansdale is the perfect example of what makes Morgantown such a dynamic and livable city. Drawing everyone from young professionals to growing families and retirees, this neighborhood offers a little bit of everything—without the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Active, and Involved
The heart of Evansdale lies in its tight-knit, community-focused spirit. Here, it’s not uncommon to see neighbors chatting on front lawns or waving as they walk their dogs down 8th Street or Willey Street. Many residents are tied to West Virginia University (WVU), as the Evansdale Campus is right in their backyard. This lends the neighborhood a lively, diverse, and welcoming feel—students, professors, healthcare workers, and local business owners all call Evansdale home.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at Evansdale Crossing, cheering at a Mountaineers game at Milan Puskar Stadium, or participating in a block picnic, Evansdale’s communal pulse is always evident. Local events and university happenings are open to all, making it easy for new arrivals to plug in and feel at home quickly.
Types of Housing: Diversity for Every Stage of Life
Evansdale hosts a variety of housing options. Along University Avenue and North Hills Drive, you’ll find mid-century single-family homes with spacious yards—perfect for families and those who enjoy gardening or entertaining outdoors. A significant number of apartments and townhouses cater to students and young professionals, especially off Eighth Street, Ridgeway Avenue, and Oakland Street.
There are also modern condos and recently renovated residences cropping up near the university campus, with options for low-maintenance living appealing to retirees or busy professionals. Rentals are plentiful as well, with everything from cozy efficiencies to shared houses for roommates.
Walkability: Convenient and Connected
One of Evansdale’s most lauded features is its walkability. Key spots—classrooms, the Evansdale Library, the Student Rec Center, and local shops—are all within a 10 to 15-minute stroll. The neighborhood's sidewalks are well-maintained, and crosswalks are clearly marked, fostering a pedestrian-friendly environment.
The Health Sciences campus and the nearby WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital anchor the eastern edge, connecting Evansdale to healthcare services and jobs. The Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system offers residents car-free access to downtown Morgantown and other WVU campuses, making commuting a breeze.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
For families with school-age children, Evansdale is served by some of Morgantown’s well-regarded public elementary and middle schools. Suncrest Elementary and Suncrest Middle are a short drive or even a bike ride away, known for their dedicated teaching staff and active PTA.
Kids are a common sight on neighborhood streets, biking or heading to Evansdale Park. The area boasts a friendly, safe atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for playdates and community gatherings. Family-oriented events at the WVU Rec Center, like swimming lessons and after-school programs, strengthen the support network for parents.
Parks and Green Spaces: Breathing Room for All
Green spaces abound in Evansdale, giving residents ample breathing room and recreation choices. Evansdale Park on Meridan Street is a local gem, offering playgrounds, basketball courts, and open fields for frisbee, soccer, or simply relaxing under a shade tree. The southern border edges close to Suncrest’s Krepps Park, with its pool, trails, and picnic shelters, making it a favorite weekend destination for families.
For those who love jogging or biking, the Caperton Trail (part of the larger Mon River Rail-Trail Network) runs nearby, connecting Evansdale to waterfront paths and downtown. Morgantown Arboretum, just north across 8th Street, is a must-visit for nature walks, gardening clubs, or quiet afternoons immersed in West Virginia’s native flora.
Safety: Peace of Mind, Day and Night
Evansdale is known for its feeling of security. With its mix of university presence and residential oversight, the area benefits from regular patrols and attentive neighbors. Most residents report feeling safe walking at night or letting kids play in the park, though the typical precautions of locking doors and bikes still apply.
Crime rates in Evansdale are relatively low compared to downtown or more transient neighborhoods. Neighbors look out for one another, and active community Facebook groups help residents stay informed and connected about local happenings or concerns.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Perhaps one of Evansdale’s top assets is its location. WVU’s Evansdale Campus and WVU Health Sciences Center are right inside the neighborhood, offering a short commute for thousands. Downtown Morgantown is just a five-minute drive or a quick trip on the PRT, opening up even more job opportunities, entertainment venues, and the banks of the Monongahela River for weekend strolls.
For those commuting elsewhere, access to Route 705 and US-19 makes getting out of town efficient, whether you’re headed to work at Mylan Park, Mon Health Medical Center, or further afield.
What Residents Love Most
Ask any Evansdale resident, and you’ll hear a common refrain: Evansdale feels like home, no matter your background. Locals love the blend of peaceful streets and vibrant university energy, the diversity and warmth of their neighbors, and the ability to walk or bike to most daily needs. There’s a genuine pride in keeping lawns tidy, parks clean, and maintaining a welcoming neighborhood for new arrivals.
Access to amenities—groceries on Willey Street, coffee shops, local eateries, and recreation facilities—makes day-to-day living a breeze. And with so many green spaces at their doorstep, Evansdale families, students, and professionals all find their own ways to unwind.
In short, Evansdale offers the best of Morgantown: a real sense of belonging with all the benefits of city living, minus the hassle.