Is Morgantown Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Morgantown, West Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its strong university presence and unique cultural connections.

Established in 1785 along the banks of the Monongahela River, Morgantown has grown from a small settlement into a bustling city with a population of around 30,000 residents.

One of the most significant influences on the city is West Virginia University (WVU), which was founded in 1867.

WVU is the largest institution of higher education in the state and is central to Morgantown’s identity.

The university brings a youthful energy to the city, along with a diverse population of students from around the world.

This academic hub contributes to the local economy, cultural events, and the overall vibrancy of the community.

Morgantown is also famously connected to the late actor Don Knotts, best known for his role as Barney Fife on “The Andy Griffith Show.”

Knotts was born in Morgantown in 1924 and graduated from Morgantown High School.

Additionally, Morgantown is known for its scenic beauty, nestled in the Appalachian region, offering outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and river sports.

The city’s downtown area features a mix of historic architecture, local shops, and eateries, making it a charming place to live and visit.

It’s also worth noting that in West Virginia and South, Appalachian is pronounced “App-uh-latch-in.”

North of West Virginia, it’s commonly pronounced “App-uh-lay-shin.”

Warnings & Dangers in Morgantown

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There’s a low risk in Morgantown, with a few safety issues we’ll address as we go through the article. It is largely a college town, which can make it seem more rowdy or lively, depending on how you look at it.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Morgantown's public transportation is centered around the Mountain Line Transit Authority, offering bus routes that connect key areas in and around the city, including West Virginia University. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are other options. All options come with a low risk, but rental cars offer the most flexibility.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Morgantown sees about five pickpockets or purse snatchings each year, looking back at five years of crime data. That’s a low risk. Vehicles are much more likely to be broken into, and unsecured bicycles are more likely to be stolen. However, don’t create a crime of opportunity; keep your belongings secured.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Morgantown faces a medium natural disaster risk. The area is susceptible to flooding, especially along rivers and low-lying regions. Occasional severe thunderstorms can bring strong winds, hail, and the occasional tornado. Winter storms, including snow and ice, are common. The area is at low risk for earthquakes.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Since 2018, there haven’t been more than 10 robberies in a year. Only about 1-2 muggings happen each year, giving this another low risk.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Morgantown has a low risk of terrorism. As a smaller city with no major high-profile targets, it’s not a primary concern compared to larger urban areas. However, like any U.S. city, general security measures are in place, especially around significant events or university-related activities.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

The police department and local sheriff’s office will post the latest scams on social media. The most common scam here involves spoofed phone calls, and you can always check the Better Business Bureau website for tips to avoid scams like this.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women have a low risk, and the university offers several services for those visiting or attending the campus to help women get around with an escort when needed. Common safety advice prevails, like not walking around alone at night.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 report for Morgantown shows full compliance and no violations.

Safest Places to Visit in Morgantown

The tourism website is visitmountaineercountry.com, which covers this section of north-central West Virginia, including the towns of Morgantown, Kingwood, and Grafton.

The site also has nearly two dozen specific visitor guides, depending on your interests.

The Downtown Morgantown website details everything you can find in the city’s core, from restaurants to shops to updated safety measures.

Downtown also hosts many activities throughout the year, so check the calendar before your visit.

Learn about the Appalachian heritage here at the Morgantown History Museum.

Exhibits cover ancient findings, settling in Appalachia, the history of Don Knotts, and the modern-day appeal of this region.

The Monongalia Arts Center is in the downtown area.

This historic building is home to rotating exhibits, theater performances, and art classes.

Pair that with a trip to the West Virginia University (WVU) Art Museum, a modern space that houses an impressive collection of over 4,000 works.

The West Virginia Botanic Garden is just outside Morgantown. It features walking trails, ponds, and a variety of native plants.

For outdoor lovers, Coopers Rock State Forest is a short drive from Morgantown and offers breathtaking views of the Cheat River Gorge.

With miles of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and picnic spots, it’s a perfect escape into nature, especially if you want to experience the area’s rugged beauty.

Several scenic drives make for a wonderful way to pass the time, especially in the fall during peak foliage.

The Old Route 7 Byway runs 43 miles from Morgantown to the Maryland state line on a picturesque journey through rolling farmland, dense forests, and quaint towns.

Places to Avoid in Morgantown

Any downtown area will have higher crime rates simply due to more people in that area day in and day out.

You also have to figure out that the city of 30,000 becomes larger during the day due to commuters or visitors who drive into town.

That said, there is a lot of anecdotal information about downtown Morgantown on subreddits and Facebook groups.

Some of the problems have escalated to the city government, which is trying to find solutions.

Expect to see homeless people, possible drug activity, and nightly “tomfoolery,” as one Redditor put it, in the downtown area.

It doesn’t appear the problem is only at night.

If you’re used to panhandlers and homeless people in your home city, this won’t stand out.

If you are expecting a charming downtown area that is pristine and perfectly safe, this isn’t the place for you.

Finally, if you want to explore the Morgantown Rail Trail, skip the part that abuts downtown.

There can be some shady characters living or loitering near there.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Morgantown

So... How Safe Is Morgantown Really?

The violent crime in Morgantown is right at the state’s average for 2022.

That rate is also 27% lower than the national average.

Over the past five years, about 27% of violent crimes have been against strangers.

That’s in addition to the 44% of violent crimes that happen in private homes, not touristy areas.

The theft rate comes in 53% higher than the national average, but let’s dissect that a bit to see what’s fueling that number.

Over the past five years, shoplifting accounts for about 31% of all thefts.

Another 35% comes from car break-ins, but that risk is easy to lower.

Simply lock your car when you park, roll up the windows, and remove personal items from plain sight.

It’s also a smart idea to keep valuables in your hotel room instead of hiding them in the car or trunk.

West Virginia University has also seen an increase in thefts.

The annual report released in September 2023 revealed the successes and challenges of the previous years.

“We urge everyone to lock their vehicle doors, a simple step that can help reduce crimes of opportunity,” St. Clair said.

“All bicycle owners should register their bikes with the department and keep bicycles secured while on campus to combat theft.

Installing a tracking device, like an AirTag, can help with recovery.”

You can check the university’s crime statistics through the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report posted on WVU’s website.

Overall, nothing stands out as too concerning about visiting Morgantown.

Of course, standard safety measures should always be used.

Between the university and local police, you have a wealth of safety resources day and night.

How Does Morgantown Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild to warm temperatures, making them comfortable times of year with vibrant seasonal changes in foliage. Winters are cold and snowy, with snowfall measuring about the same as the national average. Summers can get into the 90s for highs, with lows in the 70s. The humidity makes the area sticky in the summer, so replenish with water often if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors. Bring sunscreen and bug spray.

Airports

The closest commercial airport is Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW), just 3 miles from downtown. It offers limited flights to Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. For more extensive flight options, Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is about 75 miles north.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.

Morgantown Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

West Virginia - Safety by City