Aurora
History of Aurora
Aurora traces its origins to the summit of Cheat Mountain, where Reverend John Stough established the first settlement in 1787. John Wheeler relocated to Aurora in 1800, followed by several other families who settled nearby. Initially known as Salem and later renamed Mount Carmel, the town eventually adopted the name Aurora due to its high altitude.
Aurora Today: What Makes Us Unique
Cathedral State Park
Located on the summit of Cheat Mountain, Aurora is a prime spot for visitors attracted to its high altitude and crisp, clean air, gentle rolling mountains and deep forests. Designated a National Natural Landmark, Cathedral State Park is West Virginia’s largest old-growth forest and is home to one of the largest stands of virgin hemlock in the state. Hiking through the 133-acre park offers miles of trails, original photography opportunities against endless varieties of flowers and trees.
Farming
Preston County boasts over 1000 small family farms. Farming and timber have been part of the solid foundation of Aurora. Dairy farms, beef cattle, crops, and sheep farms are all located in this area. Local foods are abundant in Aurora and around Preston County.
The logging companies in the Aurora area and around Preston County responsibly harvest trees for the hardwoods industry and maintain the natural forests in the area.
Jacob’s Ladder
Drawing its name from the area's high altitude, Jacob's Ladder addiction treatment community is nested in the gentle rolling mountains, forest, and pasture of Aurora. The unique setting allows for historical farming and forestry practices to be integral pieces of the healing allowed for here. The Netflix documentary, “The Recovery Boys” was filmed here.
Brookside Inn
Built near the turn of the nineteenth century as part of a resort complex for those seeking to escape the busy city life of the East Coast, the Brookside Inn maintains the hospitality, spirit and traditions of those times. The cozy retreat is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Aurora School
Aurora is proud of its Aurora School, which serves students in prekindergarten through eighth-grade.
Profile Report Sections
Population
Total Population
194
Population
Growth Rate
-0.42%
Median Age
39
Diversity Index
5.000
Housing & Income
Households
85
Total Housing Units
94
Owner Occupied
52
Renter Occupied
33
Vacant
9
Median Home Value
$168,750
Average Home Value
$193,269
Income
Growth Rate
Median
Household Income
0.00%
Per Capita Income
5.04%
Income Projection
Median Household
$39,352 $46,179
Average Household
$65,903 $82,549
Per Capita
$28,875 $36,930
Workforce
Total Businesses
13
Total Employed
53
Workers 16+
120
2026 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
3
Employed
16
2026 Building Matl / Garden Equip
Businesses
1
Employed
9
2026 Other Service excl Pub Admin
Businesses
3
Employed
6
2026 Educational Services - Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
6
2026 General Merchandise Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
6
2026 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1
Employed
5
Some
High School
14
Graduated
High School
66
Associates
Degree
5
Bachelor's
Degree
14
Graduate
Degree
6
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
20
Non-Resident Commuters
31
Drive Alone
94
Carpooled
26
Public
0
Work At Home
0