Industrial city sees a modern renaissance and new growth
Cumberland was once a bustling industrial hub and the second-largest city in Maryland behind Baltimore. Its operating passenger rail lines and historic buildings persist today, giving the area a timeless feel. However, like many Rust Belt cities, it experienced a steady decline in the mid-20th century as industries moved away. Yet, according to Matt Miller, the executive director and president of the Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, “the city has been in the midst of a renaissance.” The restoration of Baltimore Street and the city’s booming small businesses and collection of parks and bike trails contribute to its growth and newfound popularity. For Ryan Mackey, Cumberland’s Director of Parks and Recreation, who grew up near the Potomac River and moved to Cumberland five years ago after college, the city holds a special charm. “I really enjoy this community. I think it’s spectacular, and I’m glad I get to be a part of it. Working in parks and recreation is a joyous experience because you can build all these things, like a playground, and watch people really enjoy them." City residents have access to several neighborhood parks and playgrounds, a major sports complex and a solid library system. Annual festivals and events support community engagement and small business owners. The city has its own Amtrak station for commuter rail travel and is close to Interstate 68.
Cumberland is building and renovating with hopes of a bright future.
Historical buildings are plentiful throughout the beautiful city of Cumberland.
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Baltimore Street's major restoration and locally owned businesses
Miller describes Cumberland as easily navigable, with little congestion and a strong sense of community. “It’s a very quaint city with a small-town feel, but with access to larger amenities,” he said. “I also think there’s a huge scene here for foodies. We’ve got tons of locally owned restaurants with a variety of different options. You can eat somewhere different every day and always find something new and exciting.” Baltimore Street is a huge part of the area’s historic downtown, but it needed restoration and updates. “The initiative began in 2015 as part of a strategic plan by city officials to reverse decades of economic decline and bring new life to the downtown area,” Miller says. In the 1970s, Baltimore Street was converted into a pedestrian-only open-air mall in an attempt to compete with suburban shopping malls. The city’s recent $17 million project reintroduced vehicle traffic to the area and completely upgraded water, sewer and gas lines. They also updated the area’s historic buildings, enabling property owners to finally convert vacant upper floors into residential spaces. Shoppers can now walk the promenade to enjoy the area’s new landscaping, dine outside, or stop for a morning bagel or cup of coffee.
Baltimore Street is the main business corridor for downtown Cumberland.
Ristorante Ottaviani fills with guest each night for dinner in Cumberland.
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The Great Allegheny Passage midpoint and local parks
The city is home to two main parks that have become staples of the community: Constitution Park and the Gene Mason Sports Complex. The sports complex sits right along the north branch of the Potomac River and has plenty of space for outdoor tournaments or pickup games. Constitution Park, established in 1921, has a pool and has been a centerpiece for recreation for over a century. "We often hear stories from people who worked as lifeguards there in the 60s," Mackey says. Cumberland is also a midpoint on the Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile-long bike trail that connects Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. “We see tens of thousands of bikers traveling the trail, and it’s a huge tourism boost for us,” Miller says. In recent years, adding more multi-use trails for mountain biking and walking has significantly boosted park activity.
Careful when crossing the tracks on the Great Allegheny Passage in Cumberland.
Friends play basketball on the courts at Gene Mason Sports Complex.
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Annual festivals, events and markets in Cumberland
Cumberland is also home to a vibrant festival scene. DelFest, a renowned bluegrass festival founded by Del McCoury, attracts visitors worldwide yearly. Other popular events - particularly for foodies - include Matt Miller’s own Wing Off and Music Festival in June, as well as annual wine and taco festivals and the Maple Bacon Festival. The city’s farmers market lines the streets with vendors every Thursday in the summer, and the Heritage Day Festival celebrates the city’s history with reenactments and performances. The Constitution Park Amphitheater hosts weekly concerts from Memorial Day to Labor Day, featuring local bands performing hour-and-a-half sets. "People sit on the hill, hang out and listen to music," Mackey said.
Many stories can be told with art for viewers to appreciate in the downtown area of Cumberland.
Farmer's Markets, festivals and much more happen at Canal Place in Cumberland.
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Early 20th century homes and mansions at a lower price point
The median price for a single-family home in Cumberland is about $160,000, much lower than other major Maryland cities. This lower price in housing may draw first-time homebuyers and young professionals to the city, which has been modernizing and updating historic buildings. Row houses from the 1920s and 1930s with brick exteriors, Victorian-inspired designs and other historic New England aesthetics, can cost as low as $10,000 at auction. Newer townhouses from the late 2010s can run up to $200,000. A majority of single-family homes cost well below $300,000. First-time buyers can find completely renovated brick foursquares, Cape Cods or workers’ cottages for around $100,000. Even colonial-inspired brick manors with more than 3,000 square feet can cost around $400,000. Several higher-end homes are located west of the river off Washington Street, where large mansions can fetch between $500,000 and $800,000.
Colonial inspired large homes tower over the streets in Cumberland.
Large brick homes line the back streets of the downtown Cumberland area.
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Allegany County public and private schools
Cumberland falls within the Allegany County Public Schools district, which is rated an overall B on Niche. Prospective area schools include Cash Valley Elementary School, Parkside Elementary School, Braddock Middle School and Allegany High School. Private schools include Bishop Walsh School, which is predominantly Catholic and graded an A on Niche, and Calvary Christian Academy, rated a C-plus.
Parkside Elementary School is where students start their education in Cumberland.
Students prepare for college and more at Allegany High School.
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Commuter rails, Interstate 68 and local bus lines
Commuters can take Interstate 68 east and west along the Maryland and Pennsylvania border or travel to major cities via the Amtrak commuter rail. Cumberland residents can reach Pittsburg, Baltimore or Washington, D.C., within a few hours by car or between four and five hours by rail. Allegany County bus lines run throughout the city for those who use public transportation.
Crime in Cumberland
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, in 2023, rates of property and violent crime were higher than national and state averages.
Written By
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On average, homes in Cumberland, MD sell after 53 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cumberland, MD over the last 12 months is $220,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This charming 1920s home offers a rare blend of vintage character and modern comfort. The layout provides 1,596 square feet of well-designed living space with three to four bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The property has seen many improvements over the past year that include fresh paint, new flooring, updated electrical work, a new central air system, and a new gas furnace, along with other
Charming brick Cape Cod with a metal roof, situated on a quiet cul-de-sac street with beautiful mountain views and a spacious, level lot. The freshly painted interior features original hardwood flooring in both the main-level and upstairs bedrooms, with attractive laminate flooring in the living room and sunroom. The bright sunroom provides additional living space, and the Cape Cod upper level
Back on market at no fault of seller !Three bedroom on spacious .34 acre lot, one full bathroom. Fenced in yard, private driveway with parking, and detached two car garage! Central air conditioning !
Great opportunity to own a 0.27-acre lot on Oakwood Street, Lots 349-351, Cumberland, MD 21502 in Allegany County. This parcel offers privacy with a wooded setting while remaining close to I-68, schools, and local amenities. Ideal for future residential construction, Modular home with permanent foundation is permitted. Mobile homes are NOT allowed. Enjoy a peaceful location just past the ball
NEW PRICE! Schedule a showing today! Welcome to 922 Dolly Terrace, LaVale, MD 21502! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath raised rancher offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and flexible living space. The main level features gleaming new hardwood floors, a bright living room with an attractive brick fireplace, an oversized dining room with expansive windows overlooking the beautiful
This duplex, complete with new metal roof, new furnaces on each side and upgraded electric is located on a corner lot at the end of the street. This is a great investment property or live in one side and renovate the other. The back yard is fully fenced and includes a large garage . Unit 49 features: 3 beds, 1 bath Unit 51 features: 2 beds, 1 large bathroom, and 1 half bath. This side is under
GREAT OPPORTUNITY! HANDYMAN SPECIAL Looking for your next fix-and-flip project or a buy-and-hold investment? This diamond in the rough is the one you’ve been waiting for! Situated on over half an acre, this home features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in a private country setting. This home needs significant repairs and updates, but it offers a fantastic opportunity to customize and provides endless
You don’t want to miss this completely updated 5 bedroom, 2 full bath home! The main level features a bedroom, full bath, and laundry for added convenience. Bright, clean interior with modern finishes throughout. Major upgrades including designer style bathrooms with quality tile finishes, new roof, new Carrier brand HVAC system, all new electric wiring, and new windows. Relax on the large
SOLD AS IS. Needs some TLC. Perfect for the first time homebuyer and or retired couple. Has living room, dining room and kitchen with a sunroom in the back of the house. Don’t delay checking out this property. Home is central to everything in LaVale.
Back on the market due to buyers financing falling through. Completely remodeled, this beautifully updated home has all of the upgrades. Come take a look at the beautiful craftsmanship and attention to detail.. The backyard has been fully fenced, creating a great outdoor area to host and/or relax.
Step into the timeless charm of this beautifully remodeled Victorian home, offering five to six bedrooms and two bathrooms. The inviting wraparound porch sets the stage for a warm and welcoming entrance, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or relaxing in the evening. Inside, classic architectural details shine, including stunning pocket doors, intricate woodwork, and high ceilings that enhance
Welcome to 325 Francis Court! Offering more than 2,900 square feet of living space, this beautifully maintained home also includes a basement with excellent potential for additional finished square footage. The main level features a welcoming foyer, formal living room, formal dining room, a spacious kitchen with abundant counter space and a bright breakfast area, a family room, a convenient half
Orchard Mews is an affordable apartment community located in Cumberland, Maryland that offers one- and two- bedroom apartments. The community is conveniently located near Todd's Smokin Bar-B-Q, Frank's Coffee, Aldi, South End Playground, Bel Air Elementary School, Community Pool, and Health Matters Urgent Care. Contact our leasing team today and allow us the opportunity to find the perfect
Come check out this spacious 3 bed 1 bath home! Pets considered on a case by case basis. Laundry hookups available! Call today for a free application! More photos to come as the remodel is completed!
Property Id: 2386328 This thoughtfully designed 2-bedroom, 1-bath home delivers comfort, functionality, and style in all the right ways. Perfect for those who value simplicity without sacrificing convenience, this cozy apartment offers an easy-to-maintain layout that feels welcoming from the moment you walk in. The bright living space creates a warm atmosphere ideal for relaxing
Property Id: 2493248 Looking for a clean and comfortable place to call home? This inviting 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers a practical layout with updated wood-look flooring, bright neutral finishes, and plenty of natural light throughout. The apartment features a spacious living area with room to create a comfortable setup, along with a separate kitchen offering white cabinetry,
Property Id: 2607605 This unique 1.5-bedroom, 3-bathroom stone home offers a blend of historic charm and functional living space. Featuring a striking stone exterior, covered front porch, and distinctive architectural details, this property stands out from the ordinary. Inside, you'll find a spacious layout with multiple bathrooms for added convenience, making the home ideal for those
Property Id: 465570 Efficiency unit. On site manager. Owner pays all utilities except A/C. All units include flat screen TV's and internet is available. Coin laundry on site, plenty of parking, walking distance to Sheetz, Dollar General and Chessie Federal CU. First month's rent and one month security deposit due on lease signing. Pets ok
Property Id: 2726876 This unit comes with a cute back yard space! Close to stores for necessities. This unit is perfect for a small family! This unit offers a comfortable and practical living space for anyone looking for a place to call home. Tenant is responsible for all utilities. NO PETS allowed NO SMOKING INSIDE 1 year lease Interested? Inquire about
Property Id: 2132759 Right on the corner of Spring and Elm, this unit is literally a hop, skip and jump away from Martin's, Dunkin Donuts, Chic-Fil-A and just a short walk away from Cumberland's very own Downtown mall that hosts plenty of other options for dining and shopping. Located in the Washington Middle/Fort Hill High School district. Utilities are Gas and Electric paid for
Property Id: 2579415 Charming 2-Bedroom, 2- Bath Furnished Apartment on Historic Washington Street. Spacious and bright. Includes washer and dryer. Living room and a separate reading room. Large bedroom with King bed. 2 large walk in closets. Off street private parking for one vehicle. Beautiful porch to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Ideal for a professional seeking comfort, convenience, and
Property Id: 2467012 **COMING THE BEGINING OF MAY 2026!!** This cozy unit is perfect for the single person or even a couple just starting out! Sheetz is practically in your backyard (talk about conveniences!) Located in the South Penn, Washington Middle and Fort Hill school districts. 1 year lease. NO SMOKING INSIDE. Animals OK, $25/animal rent per month
Property Id: 1472868 Welcome to your new home at 527 Fayette Street in Cumberland, MD! This charming 2 bed, 1 bath unit is available starting August 15th for $1100/month. Enjoy hardwood floors, a balcony, and included utilities (heat, water, sewer and trash!). This is a very large apartment with lots of closet space! Pet allowed (with fee). Don't miss out on this cozy multi-family property!
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