On November 4, 2025, Weirton, WV, was ranked #2 for best place to retire on the U.S. News & World Report’s best places to retire throughout the U.S.
The new report mostly looked at factors like tax rates, cost of living, weather, the average day commute, the community, and job market. But did they ever consider what people in Weirton think?
“People move to a new city for a variety of reasons. Although not always exciting to read, basic statistical information about the population, housing and traffic in a given location can help determine whether a specific city would be a good fit for you.” Says U.S. News & World Report.
Would students at Weir High stay here after graduation or would they come back when they retire? Or would they not come back here at all statically more people end up finding some place warm and comfortable in old age. But many others go back to their hometown because it is familiar.
Sophomore Kenneth Cekus said, “Sort of, I might want to come back when I retire.”
Freshman Charlee Tredway said, “It kinda makes me feel better when I get older but I’m not sure how accurate that is.”
Senior Kylie Dunmyer said, “I want to get away from Weirton. I don’t know
if it’s because I grew up here or what but I feel like you have to drive at least 20 mins to do anything.”
Most teens would look past Weirton being number two, and they would like to get out because it like a 20-minute dive to be able to do something fun. Many students have said a few things that would make Weirton more interesting for them.
Senior Noah Meola said, “A skating rink”
Junior Jacob Sharrow said “Fix the mill and make the town pretty”
Sophomore Ciara Greathouse said, “I think instead of fast food or restaurant we should bring in stuff to do. We have an old bowling alley,an old movie theater, and you have to drive to Steubenville to go to 7Ranges so I think we need to bring some fun instead of shopping.”
Dunmyer said, “I think it needs a good army base. The one we have next to the school is reserved only and is going to be closing soon and the next one for people to go to is in Indiana PA, and that’s if your in the reserves”
Junior Olivia Smith said, “Create schools that more involved in the community. Not just having clubs or sports be involved, everyone should be involved.”
Freshman Gavin Dunlap said, “better roads and more places to enjoy yourself at.”
They also said three different things in their prospective that makes Weirton the 2nd best place. That they believe are key pillars of local experience that helped secure Weirton’s ranking on the list.
Junior Adrienne Clausell said, “The people, it being small, more old people live here.”
Senior Brayden Racicot said, “Proximity to Pittsburgh, lower costs, secluded homes.”
Sophomore Bella Heubel said, “The family chains, the location, and the weather.”
Sophomore Ella Martin said, “Safe communities, great restaurants, amazing recourses.”
Senior Liam Mannion said, “It’s close to Pittsburgh if you wanna go somewhere, nice and calm, good restaurants.”
While Weirton has clearly mastered the formula for a peaceful retirement. The voices of its students suggest there is still work to be done to capture the hearts of the next generation. If Weirton pairs it low cost with vibrant entertainment its youth craves Weirton might find itself ranked #1. Not for those looking to settle down but for those just starting out.
