Cities and Towns in Kanawha County, West Virginia
Founded in 1789, Kanawha County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Kanawha County was formed from Greenbrier and Montgomery County (Virginia). The city of Charleston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Kanawha County has a population of 177,952 and area of 903 square miles (2,339 km²).
List of all cities in Kanawha County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alum Creek, WV | 25003 | 304 |
| Amelia, WV | 25160 | 304 |
| Belle, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| Big Chimney, WV | 25302 | 304 |
| Blount, WV | 25025 | 304 |
| Blue Creek, WV | 25026 | 304 |
| Burnwell, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| Cabin Creek, WV | 25035 | 304 |
| Carbon, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Cedar Grove, WV | 25039 | 304 |
| Charleston, WV | 25301 | 304 |
| 25302 | 304 | |
| 25303 | 304 | |
| 25304 | 304 | |
| 25305 | 304 | |
| 25306 | 304 | |
| 25309 | 304 | |
| 25311 | 304 | |
| 25312 | 304 | |
| 25313 | 304 | |
| 25314 | 304 | |
| 25315 | 304 | |
| 25317 | 304 | |
| 25320 | 304 | |
| 25321 | 304 | |
| 25322 | 304 | |
| 25323 | 304 | |
| 25324 | 304 | |
| 25325 | 304 | |
| 25326 | 304 | |
| 25327 | 304 | |
| 25328 | 304 | |
| 25329 | 304 | |
| 25330 | 304 | |
| 25331 | 304 | |
| 25332 | 304 | |
| 25333 | 304 | |
| 25334 | 304 | |
| 25335 | 304 | |
| 25336 | 304 | |
| 25337 | 304 | |
| 25338 | 304 | |
| 25339 | 304 | |
| 25350 | 304 | |
| 25356 | 304 | |
| 25357 | 304 | |
| 25358 | 304 | |
| 25360 | 304 | |
| 25361 | 304 | |
| 25362 | 304 | |
| 25364 | 304 | |
| 25365 | 304 | |
| 25375 | 304 | |
| 25387 | 304 | |
| 25389 | 304 | |
| 25392 | 304 | |
| 25396 | 304 | |
| Chelyan, WV | 25035 | 304 |
| Chesapeake, WV | 25315 | 304 |
| Clendenin, WV | 25045 | 304 |
| Clio, WV | 25045 | 304 |
| Corton, WV | 25045 | 304 |
| Cross Lanes, WV | 25313 | 304 |
| Cross Lanes, WV | 25356 | 304 |
| Crown Hill, WV | 25067 | 304 |
| Dawes, WV | 25054 | 304 |
| Decota, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Diamond, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| Drybranch, WV | 25061 | 304 |
| Dunbar, WV | 25064 | 304 |
| DuPont City, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| East Bank, WV | 25067 | 304 |
| Elkview, WV | 25071 | 304 |
| Eskdale, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Falling Rock, WV | 25079 | 304 |
| Gallagher, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| Glasgow, WV | 25086 | 304 |
| Handley, WV | 25102 | 304 |
| Hansford, WV | 25103 | 304 |
| Hernshaw, WV | 25107 | 304 |
| Hugheston, WV | 25110 | 304 |
| Institute, WV | 25112 | 304 |
| Jefferson, WV | 25177 | 304 |
| Kanawha City, WV | 25304 | 304 |
| Kayford, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Leewood, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Livingston, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| London, WV | 25126 | 304 |
| Mahan, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| Malden, WV | 25306 | 304 |
| Mammoth, WV | 25132 | 304 |
| Marmet, WV | 25315 | 304 |
| Marmet, WV | 25365 | 304 |
| Miami, WV | 25134 | 304 |
| Nitro, WV | 25143 | 304 |
| Ohley, WV | 25075 | 304 |
| Pinch, WV | 25156 | 304 |
| Pond Gap, WV | 25160 | 304 |
| Pratt, WV | 25162 | 304 |
| Quick, WV | 25045 | 304 |
| Quincy, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| Saint Albans, WV | 25177 | 304 |
| Shrewsbury, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| Sissonville, WV | 25312 | 304 |
| Sissonville, WV | 25320 | 304 |
| Sissonville, WV | 25360 | 304 |
| South Charleston, WV | 25303 | 304 |
| South Charleston, WV | 25309 | 304 |
| Spring Hill, WV | 25309 | 304 |
| Standard, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| Tad, WV | 25201 | 304 |
| Tornado, WV | 25202 | 304 |
| United Bank, WV | 25392 | 304 |
| Upper Falls, WV | 25202 | 304 |
| Verizon, WV | 25396 | 304 |
| Whittaker, WV | 25083 | 304 |
| Winifrede, WV | 25214 | 304 |
| Witcher, WV | 25015 | 304 |
| Wva Dept of Motor Veh, WV | 25317 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Kanawha County, West Virginia
Charleston
General Information
- Area: Approximately 33.3 square miles
- Population: Around 48,000 residents
- Zip Codes: 25301–25339
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3498° N, 81.6326° W
Location and History
Charleston, the capital city of West Virginia and the county seat of Kanawha County, is located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers. Founded in the late 18th century, Charleston grew as a center for salt production and later as a hub for coal and natural gas industries. Its role as the state capital since 1877 has made it the political, cultural, and economic heart of the region. Today, Charleston boasts a vibrant downtown, historic neighborhoods, and a thriving arts scene, with the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences serving as a cultural centerpiece.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Charleston is home to several schools, including Capital High School and George Washington High School. Landmarks include the West Virginia State Capitol, the Kanawha State Forest, and Haddad Riverfront Park, which hosts community events and festivals along the Kanawha River.
South Charleston
General Information
- Area: Approximately 8.6 square miles
- Population: Around 12,000 residents
- Zip Codes: 25303, 25309
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3687° N, 81.6982° W
Location and History
South Charleston, located west of Charleston along the Kanawha River, was established in the early 20th century as an industrial town. The city developed around the manufacturing and chemical industries, with the South Charleston Industrial Park playing a significant role in its growth. Despite its industrial roots, South Charleston is known for its residential neighborhoods, shopping areas, and recreational facilities, making it a well-rounded community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Charleston High School and Bridgeview Elementary School serve the area. Landmarks include the South Charleston Museum, which highlights the city’s industrial heritage, and the South Charleston Memorial Ice Arena, a hub for local sports and entertainment.
Dunbar
General Information
- Area: Approximately 2.7 square miles
- Population: Around 7,000 residents
- Zip Codes: 25064
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3637° N, 81.7390° W
Location and History
Dunbar is a city located along the Kanawha River, just west of Charleston. Incorporated in 1921, it was named after the African-American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar. The city developed as a residential area for workers in the surrounding industrial and chemical plants. Dunbar is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, parks, and community events that foster a sense of belonging among residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dunbar Intermediate School and Dunbar Middle School are key educational institutions in the city. Landmarks include Wine Cellar Park, a scenic spot for hiking and picnicking, and Shawnee Sports Complex, a premier facility for regional sports events.
St. Albans
General Information
- Area: Approximately 3.8 square miles
- Population: Around 10,000 residents
- Zip Codes: 25177
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3829° N, 81.8151° W
Location and History
St. Albans, situated on the Kanawha River southwest of Charleston, was founded in the early 19th century as a trading post and grew significantly with the advent of the railroads. Named after St. Albans, Vermont, the town has a rich history tied to river trade and transportation. Today, St. Albans retains its historic charm while offering modern amenities and access to outdoor recreation, making it a popular residential area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
St. Albans High School and Alban Elementary School serve the community. Landmarks include the historic C&O Depot, St. Albans City Park, and the Coal River, which provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
Nitro
General Information
- Area: Approximately 4.1 square miles
- Population: Around 6,400 residents
- Zip Codes: 25143
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.4179° N, 81.8301° W
Location and History
Nitro, located along the Kanawha River, was established during World War I as a manufacturing hub for gunpowder and munitions. Its name derives from “nitroglycerin,” reflecting its industrial origins. The city transitioned to a residential and commercial area after the war, retaining its historical significance while fostering a strong sense of community. Nitro’s proximity to Charleston and the Kanawha Valley has helped it thrive as a modern town with historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nitro High School and Nitro Elementary School serve the city’s students. Landmarks include Ridenour Lake, a popular spot for fishing and hiking, and the Nitro War Museum, which highlights the city’s contributions during World War I.
