Folded within the mountainous landscapes of western Maryland, Boonsboro sits at the crossroads of its historic past and developing future. Founded in 1792, the small town has a notable historical footprint as the location of two Civil War battles—one of many significant stories displayed at the Boonsborough Museum of History and the Bowman House, home of the Boonsboro Historical Society. In recent years, the town has embraced revitalization, brought on, in part, by best-selling author Nora Roberts, a longtime resident. “Boonsboro has a quaint main street that’s become more upscale because Nora Roberts has invested in the town,” says local associate broker Cynthia Sullivan of Sullivan Select LLC. “She’s bought a lot of property along the main drag and is breathing new life into it.” The author refurbished a historic hotel now called the Inn BoonsBoro, which is also the centerpiece of one of her books by the same name. Today, the town continues to blend its history and growth, while maintaining an idyllic setting— all of which attracts new residents. “Boonsboro is still more country and rural, with a lot of history behind it,” Sullivan says, adding that the community’s small-town charm is its main draw. “I don’t think the town will ever lose that.”
The views in Boonsboro will take your breathe away.
Downtown Boonsboro is a charming place to explore local history, located just a few miles from Mapleville.
1/2
Housing ranges from 19th-century homes to new builds
Boonsboro’s blend of old and new is mirrored in its housing inventory, which ranges from historic homes dating back to the early 19th century to modern homes built in the past two decades. Older single-family homes line Old National Pike, the town’s main route, and properties become larger as town roads branch off into smaller streets. Cape Cods, along with ranch- and colonial-styles, are the most common for older houses. New developments feature recently built homes with more contemporary stylings; New Traditional and Neo-Colonial architecture are common among those houses built in the past 20 years. Farmhouse-inspired bungalows and stately American Foursquares reflect the town’s rural roots, adding variety and charm to the housing mix, while townhouses and a few lots of land round out Boonsboro’s real estate inventory. Fixer-uppers can cost as low as $65,000, and turnkey properties typically start around $230,000. Prices range up to $650,000.
A charming single family colonial influenced home is one of many different styles you will find in the center of Boonsboro.
A spacious ranch-style home set on a massive lot in Boonsboro, offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the surroundings.
1/2
Students attend well-rated schools in Washington County
Students are part of the Washington County Public School District, which is ranked in the top 10 school districts in the state and earns an A-minus from Niche. Kids may begin their education at Boonsboro Elementary and Boonsboro Middle, both of which earn A-minus overall grades. Boonsboro High School earns a B-plus and offers a strong academic curriculum, which includes Advanced Placement courses and a career and technical education program. Parents may also choose to enroll their kids into one of the few faith-based private schools in the community.
Boonsboro High School, which was opened in 1958, is part of the Washington County Public School system.
San Mar Children's Home is a private school in Mapleville, minutes away from Boonsboro.
1/2
Appalachian Trail access and lakeside fun near Boonsboro
Parks in town include Shafer Park and Boonsboro Park, adjacent and centrally located tracts. Shafer Park has a playground and sports facilities, while Boonsboro Park features the Boonsboro Pond, locally also known as the Hawkins Grove fishing pond. State parks surround Boonsboro, providing access to hiking trails and campsites. Washington Monument State Park connects to the Appalachian Trail and is dotted with historic spots like monuments and battlefields. Greenbrier State Park features a beach with a swimming area and boat ramps along Greenbrier Lake. Just northeast of Greenbrier Park is South Mountain State Park, which also features a section of the Appalachian Trail and offers 40 acres of recreation. Another local attraction is the Crystal Grottoes, a series of caverns in Boonsboro that draws visitors from across the nation.
Washington Monument State Park is a starting location for hikers on the Appalachian Trail.
Greenbrier State Park is a great place to stay cool all summer.
1/2
Small-town charm with grocery access and nearby retail hubs
Boonsboro’s revitalized downtown area, anchored along Old National Pike, comprises a handful of local establishments imbued with the region’s Appalachian heritage. Nora Roberts’ refurbished Inn BoonsBoro stands proudly at the intersection of St Paul Street and the Pike, surrounded by restaurants, cafés and other small businesses. A town staple for over 20 years, Turn the Page is a bookstore owned by Roberts’ husband. Eateries range from pizzerias to Mexican spots and cafés like Stone Werks Coffee + Sweets. Pathfinder Farm Distillery, which has a tasting room and cocktail bar, is also popular among locals. A Weis Markets is close to home, while Hagerstown and Frederick offer additional shopping and dining options, including big-box retailers and familiar chains.
Mapleville residents frequent Boonsboro for dining & entertainment.
Most Boonsboro residents get their daily groceries from Weis Market.
1/2
Annual events and seasonal festivals bring residents together
Boonsboro offers a vibrant calendar of cultural and community events that bring residents together year-round. A highlight is Boonesborough Days, held every September, celebrating over 50 years of tradition. The Boonsboro Farmers Market livens up Tuesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. every week at Shafer Park, which also hosts the popular Concert in the Park summer series and family-friendly Movies in the Park. In May, children up to age 12 can enjoy the Annual Fishing Derby at Hawkins Grove Pond. Seasonal festivities for Christmas, Halloween and Independence Day round out the town’s rich community spirit.
Shafer Park is home to many of Boonsboro's events, like the Annual Boonesborough Days.
Each year, locals gather for the Annual Boonesborough Days, where a lively mix of people, animals, and activities bring the community together.
1/2
Boonsboro is car-dependent with access to major highways
Boonsboro is a car-dependent community with convenient access to major routes like Interstate 70 and Highway 40. It’s located just 11 miles from Hagerstown and 17 miles from Frederick; both towns are home to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities. For air travel, residents typically use Baltimore/Washington International Airport or Dulles International Airport.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
Photography Contributed By
Tyler Priola
Video By
David Strayer
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John Bayley,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Boonsboro, MD sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Boonsboro, MD over the last 12 months is $412,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Custom-built rancher on a premium 1.46-acre lot backing to serene Beaver Creek, offering over 3,500 sq. ft. of living space with a full guest suite addition. The open floor plan features living and dining areas anchored by a stacked stone wood-burning fireplace, with sliding doors leading to the patio and backyard. The spacious kitchen showcases wood cabinetry, including a custom swing-out pantry
Inside pics coming soon! Exceptional Investment Opportunity in the Heart of Boonsboro – Two Homes on One Property! Discover this rare and versatile investment opportunity offering two separate homes on a spacious lot in charming downtown Boonsboro. Perfect for owner-occupants, multi-generational living, or rental income, this property combines historic character with thoughtful updates and
This unique ranch-style home offers a rare and versatile layout, featuring three separate living units, each with its own private entrance, all situated on a spacious 0.52-acre lot. The main floor is divided into two distinct units: one offering a cozy 1-bedroom, 1-bath layout with a full kitchen, and the other featuring 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and a full kitchen—ideal for extended family living
HOME TO BE BUILT. Build this beautiful, custom home, modify to suit your needs or build something completely different on gorgeous 5 acre lot in Boonsboro with stunning views. This home offers beautiful curb appeal with a nod to modern design elements. The dark slate exterior of the home is accentuated by copper-colored gutters, black windows, and cedar-covered wood grain exterior accents.
Fully Renovated in 2025! Welcome to 6906 Mariah Furnace Rd in Boonsboro, MD, a beautifully updated home offering modern finishes and flexible living, set on a 0.84-acre lot. The main level features a spacious bedroom with a private bathroom, plus an additional full bathroom, perfect for guests. Recent upgrades include luxury vinyl plank flooring, recessed lighting, and fresh paint throughout. The
The thoughtfully designed Cypress plan greets guests with an inviting covered entry. Inside, you'll find a relaxing great room and a well-appointed kitchen offering a roomy pantry. An adjacent primary suite showcases a large walk-in closet and a private bath. You'll also appreciate two secondary bedrooms, a shared hall bath, and a convenient laundry. Make the Cypress your own with a kitchen
Personalize the Presley at Richmond American Homes’ Fletcher’s Grove community! The Preston plan greets guests with an inviting covered porch, and continues to impress with a formal dining room, spacious great room and well-appointed kitchen featuring a center island, walk-in pantry and nook. A mudroom, powder room and private study round out the main floor. Upstairs, discover a central laundry,
Brand New Home for Sale – Prime Location Near Downtown with Detached 2-Car Garage! This beautifully remodeled home is a must-see! Featuring brand new appliances and modern finishes throughout, this home has been thoughtfully renovated from top to bottom. You'll be able to enjoy the convenience of being just minutes from downtown, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus,
Welcome to Boonsboro Maryland, a place with beautiful panoramic views and quiet country side. This beautiful rambler meticulously upgraded! New kitchen, new appliances, brand new HVAC system with new duct work, has an extra heat system that works, new tile, hardwood floors, professionally painted, upgraded bathrooms, finished basement, new electrical panel, new well pump and tank, water
Welcome to your future dream home! It is an exceptional custom build to be constructed on 1.25 acres, perfectly perched along the mountain hillside and sharing its backdrop with a protected State Park. This rare homesite offers a blend of privacy, natural beauty, and convenience that simply cannot be replicated. As close to the Frederick County line and I-70 as you can possibly get, this location
The thoughtfully designed Cypress plan greets guests with an inviting covered entry. Inside, you'll find a relaxing great room and a well-appointed kitchen offering a roomy pantry. An adjacent primary suite showcases a large walk-in closet and a private bath. You'll also appreciate two secondary bedrooms, a shared hall bath, and a convenient laundry. Make the Cypress your own with a kitchen
Park-Like Setting - Custom-Built Brick Cape Cod – Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a beautiful 1.7-acre lot, this home offers timeless style, modern comfort, and exceptional privacy. Step inside to discover 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, gleaming hardwood floors throughout, gourmet granite kitchen with all appliances, a large island and sunny breakfast nook. Family room has beamed ceilings
To-be-built Glenix Homes in Boonsboro features authentic Modern Farmhouse or Craftsman elevations, a spacious front porch, shaker-style cabinets, granite countertops, an oversized kitchen island, stainless steel Samsung appliances (WiFi enabled), 7" luxury plank vinyl floors, modern trim and finish details, Craftsman-style open railings and interior doors, a luxury primary suite, ceramic tile in
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.