Raleigh County, West Virginia
Raleigh County sits in southern West Virginia and is surrounded by some seriously impressive Appalachian scenery. The New River Gorge is one of the area’s biggest attractions, with dramatic cliffs, winding rivers, and breathtaking views that draw visitors from near and far.
Beckley, the county seat, has deep roots in the coal mining industry. Coal helped build the local economy and shaped generations of families, but the county is finding new opportunities as times change.
Tourism has become an increasingly important part of the local economy, with visitors coming for whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor adventures. Winters can be cold and snowy, but autumn is something special, when the hills explode with brilliant colors. Through all the changes, Raleigh County remains a place where community pride and neighborly spirit run deep.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Raleigh County |
| County Seat | Beckley |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Beckley, Sophia, Mabscott, Glen White, Lester |
| Interstates and Highways | I-64, I-77, US-19, WV-3 |
| Etymology | Named after Sir Walter Raleigh, an English explorer |
| FIPS Code | 54-081 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 609 sq mi (Land: 606 sq mi; Water: 3 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 37.7693° N, 81.2098° W |
| Major Landmarks | Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Tamarack Artisan Center |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Kanawha County (North), Fayette County (Northeast), Summers County (East), Mercer County (Southeast), Wyoming County (Southwest), Boone County (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 72,000 |
