Total Population
190
Population
Growth Rate
-0.21%
Median Age
50
Diversity Index
10.100
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.
Cathedral State ParkLocated 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.
FarmingPreston 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 LadderDrawing 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 InnBuilt 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 SchoolAurora is proud of its Aurora School, which serves students in prekindergarten through eighth-grade.
Total Population
190
Population
Growth Rate
-0.21%
Median Age
50
Diversity Index
10.100
Households
83
Total Housing Units
92
Owner Occupied
74
Renter Occupied
9
Vacant
9
Median Home Value
$98,000
Average Home Value
$136,791
Income
Growth Rate
Median
Household Income
0.00%
Per Capita Income
2.26%
Median Household
$43,942 $46,383
Average Household
$52,574 $58,173
Per Capita
$22,966 $25,683
Total Businesses
14
Total Employed
52
Workers 16+
115
2025 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
3
Employed
16
2025 Building Matl / Garden Equip
Businesses
1
Employed
9
2025 Other Service excl Pub Admin
Businesses
4
Employed
8
2025 General Merchandise Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
6
2025 Educational Services - Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
5
2025 Admin / Support / Waste Mgmt
Businesses
1
Employed
5
Some
High School
13
Graduated
High School
64
Associates
Degree
1
Bachelor's
Degree
16
Graduate
Degree
8
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
11
Non-Resident Commuters
31
Drive Alone
84
Carpooled
31
Public
0
Work At Home
0