A small town in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle, Charles Town was established in the 1780s by Charles Washington, George Washington’s younger brother. Originally named Charleston, the town was renamed Charles Town to avoid confusion with the state’s capital city. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that about 7,600 people were living in Charles Town as of 2023, and the population has steadily increased since 2010 as newcomers from nearby states relocate to the region. “New buyers coming here from Virginia and Maryland will have the West Virginia stereotypes in mind,” says Jess Derr, a real estate agent with Corcoran McEnearney who lives in the area. “I assure them we have hospitals, restaurants, high-speed internet. The eastern panhandle is very similar to surrounding areas.” The growing historic town has more spacious homes with a lower price tag than Virginia and Maryland houses, making it a viable option for commuters willing to drive over 50 miles to the Washington, D.C., area for work.
Car show entries can win awards for various categories in Charles Town.
Charles Town is rich with both American and Civil War history.Charles Town offers a deep history, from the American Revolution to the Civil War.
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Older bungalows and newer townhouses
Many homebuyers look to Charles Town because its median sales price is about $400,000, which is on par with the national average and significantly cheaper than cities closer to Washington, D.C. “It’s a life hack in a lot of ways — make D.C. money but buy a house for West Virginia prices,” Derr says. “Prices in West Virginia can be shockingly lower. People will come from a condo or townhouse in Loudoun County and be able to get a single-family house with a big yard here.” Charles Town has a mixture of older gridded streets, which have bungalows and American Foursquares from the early to mid-1900s, and newer subdivisions with contemporary townhouses and farmhouse-inspired single-family homes. Derr says that the town has seen a lot of housing developments in the past few years, and new builds often make up about half of the available inventory.
Charming historic homes lines lively streets in Charles Town.
Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a townhome in Charles Town.
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Public parks in Charles Town, longer hiking trails in Harper's Ferry
The community has a few local parks where residents can take their kids to the playground or play basketball or pickleball on public courts. One of the bigger spaces is Jefferson County Memorial Park, which has a public outdoor pool and walking trails. Harper’s Ferry, which is around 7 miles east, has more outdoorsy recreation. “You can pick up the canal towpath that follows the Potomac River and go jogging or biking for miles,” Derr says. The Appalachian Trail also runs through Harper’s Ferry.
Veterans gather in Charles Town each year to honor their service at the Veterans Day event.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking in Harpers Ferry, where the Appalachian Trail runs through.
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Downtown events through Charles Town Now
The community congregates at town-wide events throughout the year. “There’s a nonprofit called Charles Town Now that’s dedicated to supporting businesses, planning events and revitalizing our downtown,” Derr says. She adds that the biggest event is the annual West Virginia Festival, a celebration with local vendors, live music, food and activities. “The organization will partner with local businesses downtown for pop-up events,” Derr adds. “Following them on Instagram and Facebook is the best way to find things to do.” The Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, a large gaming and entertainment complex with a racetrack, draws national acts to perform and is a major contributor to tourism in the area.
The Sunset Market in Charlestown welcomes residents from across Jefferson County.
Try some of the best food around at the West Viginia Fest.
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Chain restaurants near the casino and local dining downtown
Restaurants are concentrated in two spots in Charles Town: near the casino and in the historic downtown area. Around the casino, residents find chain restaurants, supermarkets and big-box retailers. The historic buildings downtown host locally owned bakeries, eateries and pubs. Jefferson Medical Center, which is associated with West Virginia University Medicine, is in the area.
A wide range of retail chains and businesses make Charles Town convenient for residents.
The Charles Town Hollywood Casino is a key attraction in Charles Town.
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Commuters take a train or interstate to go to D.C.
U.S. and state routes crisscross through town, keeping residents connected to other parts of Jefferson County. Commuters headed toward D.C., Maryland and Virginia have about a 60-mile drive southeast. They can also take a train, as there’s a MARC station about 5 miles north, in Shenandoah Junction; it takes about 2 hours to reach Washington Union Station. Dulles International Airport, which is about 40 miles southeast, is the closest major airport. According to FBI statistics, incidents of violent crime in Charles Town increased slightly from 2022 to 2023, while property crimes decreased.
The MARC train runs through Jefferson County, making commuting to Washington, D.C., convenient for Charles Town residents.
Commuters have convenient rail options from Martinsburg to Washington, D.C.
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Technical-education options through Jefferson County Schools
Kids are zoned to Jefferson County Schools; the district scores a B-minus rating from Niche and serves about 8,300 students. High schoolers may enroll in courses at the James Rumsey Technical Institute, which offers programs in automotive technology, firefighting, graphic design and more.
Washington High School serves the Jefferson County community in West Virginia.
Serving Jefferson County, West Virginia, Page Jackson Elementary supports local students and families.
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Written By
Amanda Boivin
Photography Contributed By
David MacNeill
Video By
Tony Simonetti
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cheryl Yates,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Charles Town, WV sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Charles Town, WV over the last 12 months is $379,895, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to Norborne Glebe, one of Charles Town’s most sought-after communities, where this beautifully maintained end-unit townhome offers enhanced privacy, open views, and thoughtful upgrades that truly set it apart from standard new construction. Built in 2023, this 3-level home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths with a functional open layout designed for modern living.
Largest townhome available in the sought after neighborhood of Huntfield! Don't miss this move-in ready home with over 2,700 finished square feet—significantly larger than new construction. Brand new carpet throughout! Excellent location across from the neighborhood's largest park. Spacious back deck, perfect for grilling or relaxing. The kitchen features granite countertops and stainless steel
STONE SPRING – NEW HINSDALE MODEL NOW RELEASED!Your New Home Starts Here. Experience worry-free homeownership at Essence at Stone Spring by Stanley Martin, a thoughtfully designed community where small-town charm meets modern convenience — all at an exceptional value. List price includes all options and upgrades.Welcome to The Hinsdale, a stylish and spacious main-level living home
Over 5,000 square feet of beautifully finished living space! This move-in-ready ranch in sought-after Norborne Glebe offers 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and an impressive finished walk-out lower level—ideal for entertaining, guests, hobbies, or multigenerational living.The open-concept main level features a spacious kitchen with a large island, double wall ovens, stainless steel appliances,
End-unit townhome in the desirable Townes at Tate Manor community offers the perfect blend of modern design and everyday comfort. Built in 2023, this spacious home features 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and 1 half bath across a thoughtfully designed floor plan.The open-concept main level is filled with natural light and provides an ideal setting for both entertaining and daily living. The
This spacious, well-maintained home features an open floor plan, with most rooms having been freshly painted. The property boasts a large, dream kitchen with ample cabinet and counter space, a pantry, and a kitchen bar overlooking the large family room with a fireplace. Formal dining and living rooms are ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, you will find four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Bedrooms two
Nestled in the charming City of Charles Town, this delightful Colonial home exudes warmth and character, inviting you to experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Built in 1939, this well-maintained brick residence boasts 2,112 square feet of living space, featuring three spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom, ideal for creating lasting memories. Step inside to discover the rich
Act fast for this UNRESTRICTED, CLEARED residential lot on the SHENANDOAH RIVER! The seller has septic, well, and driveway PERMITS in hand, and now his change of plans could be your riverfront dream! The half-acre lot has 46 feet of waterfront for your kayaking, fishing, and nature-watching enjoyment. Take an easy float downriver to public boat launches and picnic areas at Moulton Park and Big
Single-level home with attached 2-car garage. The open concept kitchen features a generous island and opens to the breakfast area and family room. Owner’s suite with expansive walk-in closet, dual vanity, and shower. Finished basement options available. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, conditions, availability and sales procedures related to
Welcome to Norborne Glebe, one of Charles Town’s most sought-after communities, where this beautifully maintained end-unit townhome offers enhanced privacy, open views, and thoughtful upgrades that truly set it apart from standard new construction. Built in 2023, this 3-level home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2 half baths with a functional open layout designed for modern living.
Welcome to Glenshaw II! As you enter the home through the main entryway, you'll find a huge family room, a powder room, and a storage closet. Access the home through the adjacent 2-car garage, which is weather-protected. The open concept family room is connected to a large dining and kitchen space with a generously sized island. Choose to finish the lower level for additional living space. The
This new two-story home design is all about gracious living. The first floor showcases an open-concept layout among a kitchen for inspired cooks, a breakfast room for casual meals and a Great Room for shared moments. A formal dining room for memorable meals and an office for at-home work are situated off the foyer. Upstairs, four bedrooms including the owner’s suite all feature walk-in closets.
This new three-story townhome design combines comfort and style, with an unfinished recreation room and a one-car garage on the first floor. The second floor showcases an open-plan layout combining a dining room for memorable meals, a kitchen for adventurous cooks and a Great Room for shared moments. The third floor hosts three restful bedrooms including an owner’s suite with a walk-in closet and
Welcome to the Crafton II, a beautifully designed floor plan offering the flexibility needed to truly make it your own! As you enter the home, you'll be greeted by a spacious family room, powder room, and stairs leading up to the second level. You can also access the house through the attached 2-car garage, which is weather-protected. The dining and kitchen area is quite roomy, with a generously
Attached 2-car garage. The open concept kitchen features a generous island and opens to breakfast area and family room. Optional choices available include a patio and den. Main level owner’s suite with expansive walk-in closet, dual vanity, and shower. Finished lower level options available.
Modern designs, elegant finishes, and upscale amenities await you at Washington Landings. Our Charles Town apartments come in one, two, and three-bedroom spacious and adaptable layouts. Various interior luxuries adorn them, including granite countertops, walk-in closets, in-unit washers/dryers, and more. As a resident of our pet-friendly community, you will also have exclusive access to
Charming First-Level 1BR/1BA Home for Rent – Charles Town, WV Experience easy, single-level living in this charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home located on the first level for ultimate convenience. Perfectly situated in beautiful Charles Town, this property offers a fantastic commuter location with easy access to major routes heading into Maryland, Virginia, or surrounding areas. Property
Residences at Jefferson Crossing is located at 55 Pimlico Drive in picturesque Charles Town, WV. Professionally managed by Gates Hudson, Residences at Jefferson Crossing offers stunning 1, 2, & 3 bedroom apartments with spacious, well-appointed layouts. Amenities include our Business Center, Clubhouse, Sparkling Pool & Sun Deck, Granite Countertops, Dishwashers, and all of the comforts of HOME.
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained Colonial located in the highly desirable Huntfield community in Charles Town! Offering nearly 2,000 square feet of comfortable living space, this spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home combines modern conveniences with an inviting floor plan perfect for everyday living and entertaining. Step inside to a welcoming foyer flanked by formal living and dining
Spring Run is an affordable apartment community located in Charles Town, West Virginia that offers one- and two-bedroom apartments. The community is conveniently located near a fresh slice of pizza from Brothers Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant, Food Lion, Mad Monks Coffee Shop, Fairfax Crossing Park, and Hollywood Casino. Contact our leasing team today and allow us the opportunity to find the
Are you looking for a rental this home is available August 1, 2026 so call Terri today!! Requirements are a620+ credit score and a minimum income of $7,800 per month. The application fee is $49.99 for allapplicants. To apply online use this link This spacious, well-maintained home features an open floor plan, with most rooms having been freshly painted. The property boasts a large, dream
Property Id: 1694182 Welcome to this stunning 3 bed, 2.5 bath townhouse in Charles Town! Built in 2024, this modern home features a dishwasher, washer/dryer, and central heating. Convenient to Rt 9, Rt 340, and Rt 115. Well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home located on a quiet street in the desirable Kings Crossing community. This home offers ample living space, plenty of storage, one
Recently renovated one bedroom apartment in a quiet building within walking distance to the casino and downtown Charles Town.Unit comes with central heat and A/C, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, and LVP. Washer and dryer in unit. Trash included.$1,200 per month with 1 year lease -ORshort-term options (negotiable)- Sorry, no pets
Beautiful 3-Bedroom Townhome for Rent in a Prime LocationThis spacious townhome features a desirable 2-foot extension, offering extra living space, modern finishes, and a functional open floor plan designed for comfortable everyday living.Main Level Features* Bright, open-concept living and dining areas* Modern kitchen with a large center island, granite countertops,
Our 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom property for long-term lease is located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of West Virginia. This home is well located within the subdivision Huntfield. This home is equipped with a single EV charger for your vehicle. The home is all-electric for HVAC heating and cooling. Pet Policy: One-time, non-refundable pet fee of $400 for the first pet and $200 for a
Welcome to this beautiful 2025 construction 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, two level townhome featuring a spacious open floor plan, a one car garage, and modern finishes throughout. Conveniently located just minutes from shopping, dining, schools, and everyday amenities. Income requirement is 3x the amount of rent, tenant will responsible for all utilities and lawn care. Application is online through
Property Id: 2541342 This lovely nearly 1,000 sq ft apartment is a perfect blend of historic preservation and modern amenities and is located inside the North Mildred Depot. "The Depot" is Charles Town's most up-and-coming hub for dining/retail and features large covered porches for a cafe and restaurant coming soon. This gorgeous 125 year old fully restored freight depot sits adjacent to
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