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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Video By
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Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Cumberland, MD sell after 51 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Cumberland, MD over the last 12 months is $209,900, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
MOVE IN READY...YOU WILL BE AMAZED AT THE CONDITION OF THIS PROPERTY. WITHIN THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS THE SELLERS HAVE REPLACED ELECTRIC, PLUMBING , GAS FURNACE, KITCHEN, DRYWALL , PAINTED EVERYTHING, REFINISHED FLOORS, NEW PATIO, FENCED BACK YARD, BRING YOUR OWN PERSONILITY AND YOU ARE HOME.. ABSOLUTLY NOTHING TO DO.
WOW!! HOT NEW PRICE!!! This home IS NOT serviced by Maryland Water Service and is not subject to the water bills associated with the Bel Air subdivision. Beautiful Tri-Level absolutely stunning move in condition home in an excellent location. This home has been well taken care of. Beautiful kitchen with ample cabinets, dining room living room and family room with hardwood floors. A Sunroom
beautiful hardwood floors, easy access from carport to kitchen, fenced backyard, outbuilding, full basement with pool table, recent electric heat pump. NEWLY PAINTED IN EVERY ROOM AND BASEMENT
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
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
Welcome to this 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home perfectly situated just minutes from the newly revitalized downtown. Enjoy the convenience of shops, restaurants, parks, and community events right at your doorstep! Inside, the home features an updated kitchen with brand-new appliances, plumbing and a new furnace, offering peace of mind and improved energy efficiency. The layout provides a comfortable
Check out this remarkable 5 bedroom, 2 full bathroom in the heart of Lavale! Located on a large lot with a fenced in inground pool with a new pool cover, and new heater, along with a storage shed nearby that's great for pool equipment. Perfect outdoor space for those hot summer days, and family gatherings ! Amazing outdoor space perfect for plants and bird watching. Second outdoor shed located
Fabulous single side of duplex with new flooring throughout unit, well maintained unit, lived in by owner. Mostly renovated in 223. Unit has 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. If you have a large family or would like a great place to live this is your new home. This property is a must see. Close to everything within the City limits.
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, and new windows. Relax on the large covered porch taking in the scenic mountain views and enjoy
Fabulous single side of a duplex with new flooring throughout the unit, well maintained on both sides. Recently updated in 221. Unit has 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. If you have a large family or would like a great place to live than this is your new home. This property is a must see for investors. Close to everything within the City limits.
Fresh updates in this charming, affordable brick home ! 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms in the upstairs living quarters ! Basement in great condition with a full bathroom ! Could easily be converted into a multi unit with the addition of a refrigerator and stove in the basement ! Off street parking. Located in a convenient location, close to markets and restaurants , only a few minutes to get onto
This stately brick 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is located on a corner lot with a fully fenced in backyard! Enjoy relaxing on either the upper or lower level covered porches ideal for morning coffee or evening breezes and take in the gorgeous mountainside views. Inside, you'll find a bright, kitchen with white cabinetry. There’s even a bonus room perfect for an office, nursery, or guest space! The
This beautifully updated duplex features two spacious units, each with 2 bedrooms. One unit offers 1 full bath, while the other provides 1.5 baths for extra convenience. Both units have been completely remodeled from top to bottom, blending modern style with efficiency.Upgrades include brand-new siding, roof, windows, and doors, along with all new plumbing and forced-air heating systems.
Completely reimagined and impeccably renovated, this stunning three-bedroom, two-bath home offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and everyday comfort. From the moment you enter, you’re welcomed by a bright, open-concept layout featuring brand-new wood and tile flooring, refined finishes, and elegant accent lighting throughout. Designed for both relaxation and entertaining, the expansive
Cute, newly created studio apartment with everything about four years old. Washer and dryer hookups but tenant supplies his/her own washer and/or dryer. Stove and refrigerator on site. Requirements: NON-smokers only, credit score of 625 or higher, income of $25000/year or more. Good rental history, no bankruptcies, clean criminal record and two people MAX. Security deposit is 630, lease required.
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
This bright, renovated duplex has just been cleaned and is ready for new residents. It has neutral decor, both ceramic tile and carpet. There are hook-ups for the washer and dryer on the main level; tenants supply their own window air conditioners. The requirements for this unit are: NON-smokers ONLY (we do not accept vaping, smoking inside, outside or anywhere, or people quitting. If you smoke
Property Id: 2386328This 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
Spacious and very clean 1 BR apartment in historic house with high ceilings, big windows, beautiful woodwork and an updated kitchen. Living room has fireplace (electric retrofitted) for ambiance, extra warmth. Street parking in front of house. Close to shopping, fast food and gas station but when you are in the backyard you forget you're in the city. Apartment pays water, electric for house. Room
Property Id: 2493248Welcome to your cozy 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment located at 302 Columbia St in Cumberland, MD. This unit is perfect for a single individual or couple looking for a peaceful retreat. With hardwood floors, radiant heating, and modern appliances including a freezer, oven, and refrigerator, you'll feel right at home. Pets are welcome (cats and small dogs), and smoking
Half of a duplex that was fully renovated four years ago; landscaping and a peach tree in place outside. Luxury vinyl flooring installed on first floor. Eat in kitchen, bonus room which could serve as formal dining room, study, first floor bedroom, craft room, etc. and living room on first floor with full bath (walk in shower). Upstairs are two bedrooms and another full bath. Requirements:
Property Id: 2156998Property does have a good overlook of Wills Creek with a view of the GAP trail from the outside deck. Gas and Electric are tenant responsibilityParking space beside unitAcross the street from Southern StatesIn Braddock Elementary and Allegany High School districtGAP trail is practically in the back yard! with access right down the
Property Id: 1932156Freshly painted apartment with new vinyl plank flooring throughout. The private screened-in porch offers outdoor space. A dedicated off-street parking space is also included. On-site washer and dryer, as well as dedicated storage space is provided in the apartment's communal area. The apartment building is located in a nice neighborhood within easy walking distance of
Property Id: 2493411Welcome to your new cozy 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit located at 107 Grand Ave in Cumberland, MD. This multi-family property is perfect for those looking for a peaceful living space. Rent includes garbage, sewage, and water. Enjoy amenities such as a freezer, oven, and refrigerator. Pets are welcome (cats and small dogs only) and smoking is allowed outside. Don't miss
Property Id: 2132828This cute 2 bedroom apartment is located in a friendly neighborhood with the entrance being around back and up the steps. Has had the floors updated! It is close to local amenities, dining and shopping options. Located in the Braddock/Allegany school District.Water, Trash and Sewage services are included in the monthly rent.NON SMOKING UNIT1 year
This cozy 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment offers 790 sq. ft. of comfortable living space. - Electric Range and Refrigerator included - Forced Air heating and Central cooling- Hardwood Floors - Shared Laundry- Off-Street Parking, PatioEnjoy easy access to local shops and public transportation nearby.*Some photos may be of a similar unit*Pets: Yes to
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