Student Life in Huntington, West Virginia
Overview
Huntington is West Virginia's second-largest city, located in the southwestern part of the state on the Ohio River. The city serves as home to Marshall University and provides an urban environment for higher education.
Positioned at the tri-state border of West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky, Huntington offers regional connectivity and access to neighboring states. The city features a downtown district, riverfront areas, and residential neighborhoods.
Marshall University's presence shapes the city's character, with campus facilities integrated into downtown Huntington and surrounding areas.
Universities & Student Population
Marshall University is Huntington's primary higher education institution:
Marshall University
Marshall University serves approximately 11,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The main campus is located in downtown Huntington, with additional health sciences facilities nearby.
The student population creates demand for housing, dining, and services in neighborhoods surrounding the campus. Marshall's downtown location provides students with walkable access to city amenities.
Cost of Living
Huntington's cost of living is generally affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas, with housing costs reflecting regional market conditions.
Housing
On-Campus Housing: $650 - $1,100/month depending on room type
Shared Off-Campus Apartment: $450 - $700/month per person
Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment: $700 - $1,100/month
Areas near campus and downtown typically have higher demand. Students often rent apartments or houses in surrounding neighborhoods.
Food & Groceries
Groceries: $180 - $320/month for self-catering
Dining Out (occasional): $10 - $18 per meal at mid-range restaurants
Campus Meal Plans: $280 - $420/month where available
Overall Monthly Budget
Conservative: $1,300 - $1,800/month
Moderate: $1,800 - $2,500/month
Budgets include housing, food, transportation, utilities, and personal expenses.
For comprehensive cost information, visit Cost of Studying in West Virginia.
Transportation
Public Transit
Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) operates local bus service throughout Huntington. Marshall students can access transit for campus and city travel. Bus routes connect campus areas, downtown, and residential neighborhoods.
Campus Shuttles
Marshall University provides campus shuttle services connecting academic buildings, residence halls, and parking areas. Shuttles are free for enrolled students.
Walking & Biking
The downtown campus location enables walking for on-campus activities and nearby destinations. Bike usage varies by student preference and weather conditions.
Personal Vehicles
Car ownership among students varies. Campus parking requires permits. Some students manage without cars using public transit and walking, while others prefer vehicles for off-campus access and regional travel.
Cultural & Social Life
Campus Life & Athletics
Marshall athletics, particularly football at Joan C. Edwards Stadium, draw student attendance. The university maintains strong traditions and school spirit. The Marshall Memorial honors students and coaches who perished in the 1970 plane crash.
Downtown & Dining
Downtown Huntington features restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance of campus. The Pullman Square area provides entertainment, dining, and retail options.
Outdoor Recreation
Ritter Park offers walking trails, gardens, and recreational facilities. The Ohio River Heritage Trail provides paths for walking and biking. The city's location near the river offers water-related activities.
Arts & Entertainment
The Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center hosts performances and events. Local venues offer live music and entertainment. Cultural activities include art galleries and community events throughout the year.
Working While Studying
On-Campus Employment
Marshall University offers part-time positions in libraries, administrative offices, student services, and research facilities. Medical school and health sciences programs create additional employment opportunities.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Huntington's retail, healthcare, and service sectors employ students. The city's location creates access to employment in multiple states within the tri-state area.
Work Regulations for International Students
International students must comply with visa work authorization regulations. F-1 students may work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. Students should consult Marshall's Office of International Student and Scholar Services for specific guidance.
Information on this page represents general patterns and publicly available data about Huntington. Individual experiences vary by university, program, and personal circumstances. Students should verify details directly with institutions and explore neighborhoods before making housing decisions.
Last reviewed: January 2026