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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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
Tara Lowe,
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 Charles Town, WV sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Charles Town, WV over the last 12 months is $382,632, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
STONE SPRING – NEW MELROSE MODEL NOW RELEASED!Your New Home Starts Here.Discover worry-free homeownership at Essence at Stone Spring by Stanley Martin, where small-town charm meets modern convenience — all at an exceptional value. Best of all, list price includes all options and upgrades.Welcome to The Melrose, a beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering stylish and
STONE SPRING – NEW HINSDALE MODEL NOW RELEASEExperience 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 featuring 2 bedrooms, a flex
STONE SPRING – NEW MELROSE MODEL NOW RELEASED!Your New Home Starts Here.Discover worry-free homeownership at Essence at Stone Spring by Stanley Martin, where small-town charm meets modern convenience — all at an exceptional value. Best of all, list price includes all options and upgrades.Welcome to The Melrose, a beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering stylish and
Rare opportunity to skip the tedious demolition phase and jump straight to the renovation to restore this home back to its original charm. Built in 2002, this solidly constructed split-foyer home has been completely gutted, offering contractors, investors, or ambitious new homeowners the ultimate blank slate to design their dream property. Cash or hard money/renovation loans (FHA 203k). Property
BACK ON MARKET! NO FAULT OF SELLER.Welcome to a home that truly has it all. Built in 2024, this nearly new custom residence offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 3,450 square feet of beautifully designed living space on just over an acre—giving you room to grow, relax, and enjoy the outdoors with no restrictions.From the moment you arrive, the home’s distinctive curb appeal makes a
Back on the Market! Perfect for rental investment! (or a first-time homeowner/ downsizing?) This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom raised ranch offers a prime investment opportunity in a desirable downtown location. Built in 1951, the home features a traditional floor plan with hardwood and ceramic tile flooring, enhancing its appeal. The country-style kitchen is equipped with stainless steel
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 brick residence boasts 2,112 square feet of living space, featuring three spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom, ideal for creating lasting memories. The attic has pull down stairs and is floored
This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home welcomes you with a covered front porch, mature landscaping and a spacious yard. Inside, refinished hardwood floors add warmth and character throughout the main living areas, while abundant natural light and generously sized rooms create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The home features zoned HVAC for enhanced comfort and efficiency
Welcome home to this well-maintained brick rancher nestled in the desirable Tuscawilla Hills community of Charles Town! Offering timeless curb appeal with a beautifully manicured yard, attractive flower beds accented with decorative stone and mulch, a circular driveway, an attached two-car garage, newer tilt-in windows, and gutter guards for added convenience, this home combines comfort,
Welcome to 639 Barksdale Dr in the desirable Norborne Glebe community! This beautifully maintained, only 3-year-old home offers 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and approximately 3,000 finished square feet of comfortable living space. The spacious floor plan provides plenty of room for everyday living, entertaining, and guests, while the 2-car garage adds convenient storage and parking.Enjoy the
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.
Welcome to The Irving, a charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home that is perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient living space. This one story ranch home boasts a spacious kitchen with an island, ideal for entertaining friends and family. The dining area seamlessly flows into the cozy family room, creating the perfect setting for relaxing evenings at home.But wait, there's
Attached 2 car garage. Enter on the first floor to a spacious entryway that leads to two secondary bedrooms, a full bath, and a laundry room. Open concept kitchen with island opens to breakfast area and family room. First-level owner's suite with expansive walk-in closet, dual vanity, and shower. Optional choices available include a 4-foot rear extension, a study, a morning room, a dining room,
Welcome to the Bridgeport II, a place where style meets functionality! Crossing the threshold, you'll find an open concept layout that includes a bright gathering room with an optional fireplace, a spacious kitchen with a large island and walk-in pantry, a mudroom, a powder room, and a flex room or main level bedroom. Moving upstairs, you'll discover a private owner's suite that comes with a
This new three-story townhome design is the epitome of casual elegance. On the first floor, an unfinished recreation room and a one-car garage offer convenience. On the second floor, a lovely dining room flows in an open-concept layout to a multi-functional kitchen and welcoming Great Room. On the third floor, a luxe owner’s suite and two secondary bedrooms provide restful retreats for family
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
Nice 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath town home in great location. Kitchen, dining area and family room w/gas fire place. Wood floors on main level. Fully finished basement, one car garage, fenced rear yard for privacy and deck. Easy commute to the Washington-Balitmore Metro areas. Close to schools and shopping centers.
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.
Beautiful, like new townhouse for rent with finished basement. This 3 bedrooms home with two full baths and two half baths. No Pets, No smoking. Rent includes HOA fee which offers many amenities including pool access and weekly trash pickup.
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
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
Renovated historic craftsman style home. Available for showings 8/10/26.The home features a large main floor master bedroom with walk-in closet. Master bathroom with soaking tub, separate all tile shower. Large living room with dinning room and newer appliances and updated kitchen which has tile flooring and large pantry. The upper level features a full bathroom and tile tub/shower combo.
This spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers comfort and convenience just minutes from downtown. With a well-designed layout, it provides plenty of living space and natural light. Off-street parking ensures hassle-free parking, while the prime location keeps you close to shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Don't miss this great opportunity—schedule a showing today! Well
3-level townhome in sought-after Norborne Glebe! Spacious smart home with finished lower level recreation room, beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops, 1-car garage, washer/dryer package, spacious deck and more! This home won't last long!
This spacious home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a 1-car garage, making it the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Inside, you'll find an open-concept layout ideal for entertaining, a modern kitchen with plenty of storage, and a finished lower level with a full bath that's perfect for guests or a home office. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a private retreat complete with
This like-new townhome offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and small-town charm in the heart of Charles Town!The home features:3 spacious bedrooms2.5 bathroomsModern finishes throughoutNearby children’s playground and community dog parkConvenient access to Starbucks, shopping, dining, and everyday essentialsThe HOA maintains the
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.
