Terra Alta is a town in eastern Preston County, West Virginia, United States.

[7] The present name Terra Alta is derived from Latin meaning "high land".

The town is home to the James S. Lakin House and Terra Alta Bank, each listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

[10] According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.19 square miles (3.08 km2), all land.

[11] The climate in this area has mild differences between highs and lows, and there is adequate rainfall year-round.

28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

26.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.