Total Population
196
Population
Growth Rate
-0.52%
Median Age
53
Diversity Index
7.900
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 is proud of its Aurora School, which serves students in prekindergarten through eighth-grade.
Total Population
196
Population
Growth Rate
-0.52%
Median Age
53
Diversity Index
7.900
Households
83
Owner Occupied
70
Renter Occupied
13
Vacant
9
Median Household
$52,681 $53,377
Average Household
$60,501 $67,543
Per Capita
$25,620 $28,998
Total Businesses
13
Total Employed
60
Workers 16+
93
2024 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
3
Employed
17
2024 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1
Employed
16
2024 Other Service excl Pub Admin
Businesses
4
Employed
9
2024 Building Matl / Garden Equip
Businesses
1
Employed
9
2024 General Merchandise Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
7
2024 Admin / Support / Waste Mgmt
Businesses
1
Employed
5
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
0
Non-Resident Commuters
27
Drive Alone
68
Carpooled
25
Public
0
Work At Home
0