Total Population
190
Population
Growth Rate
-0.97%
Median Age
55
Diversity Index
9.100
On the summit of Cheat Mountain, the first settlement in Aurora was made in 1787 by the Reverend John Stough. John Wheeler moved to Aurora in 1800, while other families continued to settle nearby. Originally a German settlement, the town was named Salem and later became Mount Carmel. The current name, Aurora, was suggested because of the town's 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.
Households
81
Owner Occupied
72
Renter Occupied
9
Vacant
11
Median Household
$56,817 $51,828
Average Household
$62,909 $69,992
Per Capita
$26,819 $30,549
Total Businesses
12
Total Employed
63
Workers 16+
62
2023 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
3
Employed
17
2023 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1
Employed
16
2023 Other Service excl Pub Admin
Businesses
3
Employed
9
2023 Building Matl / Garden Equip
Businesses
1
Employed
9
2023 Arts / Entertainment / Rec
Businesses
1
Employed
7
2023 General Merchandise Businesses
Businesses
1
Employed
7
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
19
Non-Resident Commuters
10
Drive Alone
46
Carpooled
11
Public
0
Work At Home
0