How West Virginia Border Counties Support the Pennsylvania Economy
West Virginia’s border counties play an important role in strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy through shared workforce corridors, energy partnerships, transportation access, healthcare services, and cross-border commerce.
A Cross-Border Economic Partnership
Pennsylvania and West Virginia share a deeply connected regional economy, particularly along the southwestern and western portions of the state. Rather than functioning as separate markets, these border regions operate as a shared economic zone where workers, businesses, and services move freely across state lines.
West Virginia’s border counties contribute to Pennsylvania’s growth by supplying labor, supporting industrial supply chains, strengthening energy development, and expanding access to healthcare, education, and logistics infrastructure.
Key West Virginia Border Counties Connected to Pennsylvania
Monongalia County, WV
- Direct workforce and research connections with Greene and Washington Counties, PA.
- Energy, natural gas, and engineering partnerships.
- University-driven labor and innovation support.
Marion County, WV
- Manufacturing and logistics support tied to southwestern Pennsylvania.
- Skilled trades and contracting workforce.
- Shared transportation corridors into PA markets.
Wetzel & Tyler Counties, WV
- Energy services and natural gas operations serving PA.
- Industrial contracting and field services.
- Shared Ohio River commerce activity.
Workforce Mobility and Labor Support
Thousands of West Virginia residents commute into Pennsylvania for employment in healthcare, energy, manufacturing, logistics, and education. This shared labor market:
- Helps Pennsylvania employers fill specialized and skilled positions.
- Supports hospitals, industrial operations, and universities.
- Increases consumer spending in Pennsylvania communities.
Energy, Transportation, and Infrastructure Links
West Virginia border counties strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy through shared infrastructure, energy development, and transportation systems, including:
- Natural gas production and pipeline networks.
- Industrial supply routes connecting WV operations to PA facilities.
- Highway and freight corridors supporting cross-border commerce.
- Energy workforce specialization and technical services.
Business Networks and Regional Collaboration
Cross-border collaboration between Pennsylvania and West Virginia is strengthened through chambers of commerce, regional business networks, and economic development organizations. These partnerships help:
- Promote joint business opportunities.
- Support workforce development initiatives.
- Increase regional visibility for small and mid-sized businesses.
- Encourage coordinated economic growth strategies.
A Stronger Pennsylvania Through West Virginia Partnerships
West Virginia’s border counties provide essential workforce, energy resources, industrial support, and regional collaboration that directly strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy. These long-standing partnerships help ensure continued growth and resilience across the Pennsylvania–West Virginia border region.