Cities and Towns in Mercer County, West Virginia
Founded in 1837, Mercer County is one of 55 counties in the state of West Virginia. Historically, Mercer County was formed from Giles County (Virginia) and Tazewell County (Virginia). The city of Princeton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Mercer County has a population of 59,097 and area of 420 square miles (1,088 km²).
List of all cities in Mercer County, WV alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ada, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Athens, WV | 24712 | 304 |
| Beeson, WV | 24714 | 304 |
| Bluefield, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Bluewell, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Bramwell, WV | 24715 | 304 |
| Brush Fork, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Camp Creek, WV | 25820 | 304 |
| Ceres, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Coaldale, WV | 24724 | 304 |
| Dott, WV | 24736 | 304 |
| Duhring, WV | 24747 | 304 |
| Elgood, WV | 24740 | 304 |
| Flat Top, WV | 25841 | 304 |
| Freeman, WV | 24724 | 304 |
| Giatto, WV | 24736 | 304 |
| Green Valley, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Hiawatha, WV | 24729 | 304 |
| Kegley, WV | 24731 | 304 |
| Kellysville, WV | 24732 | 304 |
| Lashmeet, WV | 24733 | 304 |
| Lerona, WV | 25971 | 304 |
| Littlesburg, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Lorton Lick, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Matoaka, WV | 24736 | 304 |
| Mc Comas, WV | 24747 | 304 |
| Montcalm, WV | 24737 | 304 |
| Nemours, WV | 24738 | 304 |
| Oakvale, WV | 24739 | 304 |
| Oakvale, WV | 24740 | 304 |
| Princeton, WV | 24740 | 304 |
| Rock, WV | 24747 | 304 |
| Sandlick, WV | 24701 | 304 |
| Spanishburg, WV | 25922 | 304 |
| Wolfe, WV | 24751 | 304 |
Major Cities and Towns in Mercer County, West Virginia
Mercer County, located in the southern part of West Virginia, is known for its rich coal mining history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant communities. With its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, the county is home to a mix of rural charm and small-town energy. Mercer County was established in 1837 and has long been a center for coal mining, which shaped its economy and development throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the county remains an important regional hub, with a focus on tourism, outdoor recreation, and a growing service-based economy. Below are some of the key cities and towns in Mercer County.
Princeton
Location and History
Princeton, the largest city and county seat of Mercer County, is located near the convergence of the Bluestone and Greenbrier Rivers. The city was incorporated in 1837 and named after Princeton, New Jersey, in honor of its intellectual heritage. Princeton played a significant role in West Virginia’s coal mining industry, with its strategic location along key railroads making it an important transportation and trade center. During the 20th century, Princeton saw significant growth, becoming a regional hub for retail, healthcare, and education. As the coal industry declined in the region, Princeton diversified its economy and now features a mix of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The city is also known for its historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical buildings.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,500
- Zip Codes: 24740
- Latitude: 37.3552° N
- Longitude: 81.0944° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Princeton is home to several notable educational institutions, including Princeton Senior High School, which serves as a cornerstone for the city’s public education system. The city also has several private schools, as well as proximity to Bluefield State College, which is located nearby in Bluefield, West Virginia. In terms of landmarks, Princeton boasts the beautiful Mercer County Courthouse, an architectural gem in the heart of the city, as well as the Princeton Railroad Museum, which highlights the city’s rich history in rail transportation. Other landmarks include the Mercer Street Historic District, which is home to several late 19th and early 20th-century buildings. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Bluestone State Park provides recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Bluefield
Location and History
Bluefield, located on the Virginia-West Virginia border, is another prominent city in Mercer County. Known as the “Nature’s Air-Conditioned City” due to its cool mountain climate, Bluefield was incorporated in 1895 and has long been a hub for the coal and railroad industries. Its location along the Pocahontas Railroad helped it become an important coal shipping point, which contributed to its rapid growth in the early 20th century. Bluefield experienced a boom in population during the coal mining era and became one of the most prosperous towns in the region. The decline of coal mining in the latter half of the 20th century caused economic shifts, but Bluefield remains an important center for healthcare, education, and retail in the region.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 5.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,500
- Zip Codes: 24701, 24701
- Latitude: 37.2479° N
- Longitude: 81.2479° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bluefield is home to Bluefield State College, a historically black college that offers a variety of degree programs and contributes to the city’s educational landscape. In addition, the city is served by Bluefield High School and several elementary and middle schools. Bluefield has several landmarks that highlight its history and scenic beauty. One of the most notable is the Bluefield City Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields. The Bluefield Historic District features several preserved 19th-century buildings that reflect the city’s past prosperity, and the Fincastle Country Club provides recreational opportunities. Additionally, the nearby Pinnacle Rock State Park offers visitors stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
Montcalm
Location and History
Montcalm is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Mercer County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and is situated near the West Virginia-Virginia state line. Montcalm developed around the coal mining industry, with several coal mines operating in the area during the 20th century. Like many of the region’s smaller communities, Montcalm saw significant population growth during the height of coal mining, but as mining declined, the town’s population decreased. Despite its small size, Montcalm retains a strong sense of community and is known for its peaceful, rural setting. The town is primarily residential and offers a slower pace of life, while still being close to larger cities like Princeton for access to services and amenities.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 350
- Zip Codes: 24737
- Latitude: 37.3583° N
- Longitude: 81.3072° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Montcalm is served by the Mercer County School District, and its residents typically attend schools in nearby towns like Princeton. The community is located near several outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and fishing in the nearby Appalachian Mountains. Montcalm has few commercial establishments, but its rural charm and close-knit community make it an attractive place for people who enjoy a quiet lifestyle. The area is known for its natural beauty, with access to streams, forests, and rolling hills that make it a picturesque place to live. Nearby, the Bluestone River offers additional outdoor activities like boating and fishing.
Athens
Location and History
Athens, a small town located in the northern part of Mercer County, was founded in the mid-19th century and named after the ancient Greek city. Athens is home to Concord University, a public liberal arts institution that has played an important role in the town’s development. The town was historically an agricultural community, but with the establishment of Concord College in 1872, it became a hub for education. Athens grew in importance as Concord College attracted students from across the region. Today, the town remains a center for education and small-town living, with the university continuing to be the focal point of the community.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Zip Codes: 24712
- Latitude: 37.4114° N
- Longitude: 81.0912° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Athens is home to Concord University, a public institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is a major influence on the local economy and culture, attracting students and faculty from across the country. The town has several public schools, with students attending schools in the Mercer County School District. Athens is also known for its beautiful setting, with views of the Appalachian Mountains and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. The town is home to several historical buildings, including the old Concord College buildings, which add to the town’s historic charm. Athens is a peaceful community with a strong academic presence, making it an ideal place for families and students.
Summary of Mercer County Landmarks and Schools
Location and History
Mercer County is rich in both natural beauty and history, with towns like Princeton, Bluefield, and Athens shaping the county’s development over the years. The county was once a booming center for the coal mining industry, but today, it has diversified, with a focus on education, healthcare, and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mercer County is home to several notable educational institutions, including Concord University in Athens and Bluefield State College in Bluefield. These colleges, along with the public schools in Princeton and Bluefield, provide a strong educational foundation for the community. Landmarks throughout the county include the historic downtowns of Princeton and Bluefield, the scenic parks such as Bluefield City Park and Pinnacle Rock State Park, and the significant educational sites in Athens. These landmarks and schools contribute to the county’s vibrant culture and strong sense of community.