Since the 1800s, Hagerstown has been known as Hub City in Western Maryland, a nickname that denotes the significance of the town’s location at the convergence of Maryland’s railways. Although this has since faded with the decline of American rail travel, the city is currently going through what could be called a renaissance. Central, the city’s downtown neighborhood, has recently experienced a boost of activity that has locals comparing to Hagerstown its more famous neighbor, Frederick. “I don’t like to think of Hagerstown as following in Frederick’s footsteps. Even though they’re in neighboring counties, they’re very different,” says Bethany Gosnell, Realtor with The Agency who has lived in Maryland since 2006. “Hagerstown has half of Frederick’s inhabitants, so it’s going to take more than 10-15 years for it to be comparable in terms of traffic congestion and overpopulation and to lose that small town feeling that people are attached to.” While new developments have sprung up around the outskirts, Central itself is full of renovated 19th-century row houses that line the narrow streets. An influx of funding and an uptick in business interest has culminated in the construction of Meritus Park, a state-of-the-art baseball stadium. Residents can be found having lunch at the pubs in the center of town, strolling along the shady trails of Hagerstown City Park or catching up in line for donuts that have been a community tradition for over 80 years.. “Hagerstown sometimes feels like the middle child that is constantly compared to the younger and older siblings who are just bigger and taller,” Gosnell adds. “But then you have a conversation with the middle child, and you find out they’re the coolest one of the bunch.”
Major railways pass through Hagerstown, giving it's nickname Hub City.
“Hub City” comes from the railroad lines running into Hagerstown resembled the spokes of a wheel
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Calling Central home
Much of the housing stock in Central Hagerstown consists of Federal-style brick townhouses with neat rows of windows looking out over the sidewalk-lined streets. There are also several Victorian duplexes scattered about, which feature narrow alleyways leading to small backyards on either side. Most residential buildings were constructed between 1880 and 1920 and have undergone extensive interior renovations. Prices range from $125,000 to over $300,000, depending on the condition of the property and the number of bedrooms. In this mixed-use neighborhood, buyers should be wary of rising commercial real estate prices being used as comparables. Prospective owners can also take advantage of services like Homestore, a nonprofit that supports first-time buyers in Washington County. “They’ll help you fill out applications, they’ll go over a budget with you, they’ll help you plan for a real estate goal for a year down the road,” Gosnell says. “It’s similar to what a real estate agent and a lender would do, but this is a storefront for that purpose. It’s part of a goal to increase homeownership here.”
A large crowd enjoys music on a summer evening in University Plaza, Hagerstown.
Simple but quaint brick town homes are common in Hagerstown.
Downtown Hagerstown is highly walkable with sidewalks and walkways throughout town.
Hagerstown is home to some of the areas most interesting architecture.
The beautiful Hagerstown skyline and view of Meritus Stadium.
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Bodegas, Broad Axe and Krumpe’s Do-Nuts
Whichever way they turn, locals will find places to shop for groceries. Options include La Bodega and Spickler’s Market, both in the neighborhood, which offer small selections of pantry staples and daily necessities. Broader stock is available at Aldi or Lidl just 1 mile from the center of town, and the closest Target is a short 4-mile drive south to Valley Mall. “People are trying to revitalize downtown, and walkability there is a key highlight. Last time I looked there were 18 non-chain restaurants in the area, so the food scene is pretty good,” Gosnell says. “Schmankerl Stube is a German restaurant within walking distance of the ballpark, and everybody knows it because it’s unique. And Jpmino Coffee is a frequent spot of mine. It’s kind of like you’re taking a step back in time and sitting in an old jazz club that’s now a coffee shop.” Other popular options include Broad Axe, a modern American pub where residents stop in for sandwiches at lunch or live music and cold beer late into the night, and Krumpe’s Do-Nut Shop, a community staple where tradition has dictated that fresh donuts be handmade nightly from 7 to 11 p.m. since 1934.
Many dining options such as Black Rock Grill and Primanti and many others are in Hagerstown.
Browse through thousands of albums at Hub City Vinyl for your favorite artist on vinyl.
Broad Axe is a local favorite for lunch and dinner or just socializing over drinks.
Hungry customers line up at Krumpe's for the best donuts in town.
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The trailheads and parks of Hagerstown
Hagerstown is recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as Tree City USA, and residents of Central are uniquely poised to take advantage of the surrounding natural landscape. “There’s a lot of outdoors activities. I mean, we’re right at the Appalachian Trail, right in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s camping, hiking, whatever you want to do,” Gosnell says. “Marty Snook Park has a section where they have animated characters carved into trees. It has a few different playgrounds, fields and walking paths. It’s kind of like City Park, but it’s a little more wooded. If you have kids, it’s a big highlight.” Hagerstown City Park is also home to the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, where locals can peruse the permanent collection, enjoy classical concerts by local musicians or participate in art education programs.
A large crowd enjoys music on a summer evening in University Plaza park in Hagerstown.
Kids enjoy a game of kickball at Marty Snook Park in Hagerstown.
Hagerstown City park has an outdoor amphitheater hosting live events throughout the year.
Fairgrounds park sports an award winning skatepark cherished by local BMX bikers and skaters.
Meritus Park in Central Hagerstown displays a colorful mural on adjacent buildings.
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The Farmers Market and the Flying Boxcars
The highlight of Central’s skyline is Meritus Park, a brand-new ballpark that hosts Atlantic Baseball’s Hagerstown Flying Boxcars. The Boxcars are the city’s first venture into professional baseball since the departure of the Hagerstown Suns franchise in 2020, and their arrival has given locals much to talk about. “There’s just a sense of pride for people from Hagerstown in being able to say that they have their own baseball team,” Gosnell says. “And it’s a beautiful ballpark. The team has had a bit of a rough start, but as more people continue to move here and Central gets built up, the team will get more attention.” Just down Baltimore Street, Maryland’s largest record store, Hub City Vinyl, hosts live concerts by area musicians in their historic venue. Every third Thursday, residents can head to the City Farmers Market to sample local whiskeys, indulge in food truck offerings, grab fresh produce or simply catch up with neighbors.
Shop for locally made unique merchandise at the City Farmers Market in Hagerstown.
Flying Boxcars play ball in the Meritus Stadium in Central Hagerstown.
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Washington County’s Public Schools
The Central neighborhood is zoned for Washington County Public Schools, such as Eastern Elementary, which earns a B-minus from Niche and which recently hosted an inaugural chess tournament for county children. Students may then proceed to Northern Middle, which is rated B and is an International Baccalaureate World School. North Hagerstown High scores an A-minus and is Niche’s No. 2 Best Public High School in Washington County. Alternative high school options are also available. “The Barbara Ingram School for the Arts is the highest-rated public high school in Washington County right now. It’s a magnet school for artistically gifted students, so it helps them hone in on their abilities while still getting a high school diploma.” Barbara Ingram is rated A and takes the top spot as Niche’s No. 1 Best Public High School in the county.
Eastern Elementary serves students in the Hagerstown area.
Northern Middle School in Hagerstown serves students in Washington County.
North Hagerstown High School sports an impressive school campus.
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Between Interstates 81 and 70
Hagerstown is known as Hub City, a nickname that is reminiscent of its position at the center of Maryland’s railroad system in the 19th century. Today, the city’s position at the conflux of two interstate highways keeps that moniker relevant. “Wherever you are in Hagerstown, you can get onto Interstate 70 or 81 in just a couple of minutes, so the commute is all highway,” Gosnell says. “And that is a huge benefit because the surrounding counties are not like that.” Interstate 81 connects Central directly to Hagerstown Regional Airport 6 miles north, which offers flights directly to vacation destinations like Orlando, Florida and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Hagerstown provides a public transportation bussing system for it's residents.
I70 and I81 run through Hagerstown making it convenient for commuting and commerce.
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Washington County Goes Purple
Like many small towns across America, Hagerstown has witnessed firsthand the fallout of the opioid crisis. “I think that the apparent drug use is something any city probably has to deal with, and I know Hagerstown is trying,” Gosnell says. “Washington County has an initiative called Washington County Goes Purple, which is for opioid awareness and overdose prevention. So there are some pretty big initiatives to try and target that problem where it exists. And it’s something that the community really rallies behind, which is what you get from a small town like this.”
GreatSchools:
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View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Central
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
10
4
Assault with Weapon
9
4
Robbery
9
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
9
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Central Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Central, Hagerstown sell after 62 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Central, Hagerstown over the last 12 months is $163,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover this well-maintained Colonial townhouse, ideally located in a vibrant and convenient community. The main level offers a comfortable living room that flows through the dining area and kitchen to a rear breakfast space, creating a practical layout for everyday living. The second floor includes three bedrooms, one with a private balcony, along with a full bath and a conveniently located
Welcome to this bright and beautiful duplex just blocks from the Hagerstown fairgrounds and park area. Filled with natural light, this home offers three above-ground levels, a fenced rear yard, and a sought-after parking pad for up to three vehicles. The main level includes an updated kitchen with new cabinets, countertops, and stainless-steel appliances, along with a spacious formal dining room,
Prime investment opportunity in the heart of Hagerstown. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom twin home built in 1896 offers 1,140 finished square feet with classic brick exterior and off street parking. Small 0.09 acre lot provides low maintenance ownership. Basement offers additional storage and potential value add. Convenient location near amenities and commuter routes supports strong rental demand.
Investor opportunity with immediate income and upside potential. Fully occupied duplex currently generating $2,253/month in rental income, with utility reimbursement averaging approximately $350/month to help offset operating expenses. Tenants are responsible for utilities. Offering 2,112 finished square feet on a 0.07 acre lot in an area with consistent rental demand and convenient access to
Welcome home to affordable living in Hagerstown Maryland! This unique layout at 601 North Mulberry features 2 identical, yet completely separated living units, all under once singular parcel! Live in one side, rent out the other! Or, start your portfolio with 2 turn-key units under one parcel, at an affordable price. Purchasing this property will involve one closing, one mortgage, yet two
Spacious units featuring large, well-proportioned rooms throughout. Main level includes a living room, dining room, and eat-in kitchen. Upper level offers two generously sized bedrooms and a full bath. Tenants pay all utilities, providing strong investment appeal. Off-street parking available for added convenience. Property is currently leased through December 30, 2027. Any purchaser intending
New Price! Charming all Brick Duplex Townhome – Newly Updated! Step into comfort and convenience in this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath brick duplex townhome! This spacious home features brand new LVP flooring, creating a modern and inviting feel from top to bottom. Enjoy an open main level floor plan that includes a bright family room, a separate dining area, and a beautifully refreshed
POSSIBILITY OF 6 UNITS! Welcome to 601-603 North Mulberry Street, a 4 -unit residential investment. The property features 4, individually metered 1-bedroom apartments, with 2 separate entrances for each unit(8 total entrances). There are 2 additional attic units on each side that could be renovated into 2 additional efficiency or studio units! These additional attic units already have separate
Well-maintained and recently remodeled half duplex located directly across from Hagerstown Fairgrounds Park, offering convenient access to walking trails, recreation, and local amenities. This 3-bedroom, 1 full bath home features spacious rooms throughout, along with a full walk-up attic that includes a bonus room—perfect for additional living space, office, or storage. Enjoy outdoor living with
Welcome to this stunning fully renovated single family home offering 3 bedroom and 2 full bath, comfort, style, and convenience. Natural gas furnace for efficient heating , among many other updates that are nicely done. This home is truly move in ready.
Welcome to this charming home located at 40 Fairground Ave in the heart of Hagerstown! Featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, this property offers the perfect blend of character, comfort, and convenience. The updated kitchen is sure to impress with modern finishes, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of cabinet space for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy spacious living areas filled with
Fully occupied 3-unit multifamily investment opportunity in Hagerstown at an affordable price point. 106 Randolph Avenue features three 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartments, all currently rented and producing stable in-place income. The simple unit mix makes the property easy to rent and manage, with strong demand for affordable 1-bedroom units. Current rents are below market, creating a clear
Move-in ready rental with a fenced rear yard and a finished attic; perfect for a home office or extra living space. Don’t miss this one! Photos Coming Soon!
Renovated historic building in downtown Hagerstown. Within walking distance to the Arts & Entertainment Center, Meritus Ball Park, the Maryland Theatre and numerous restaurants and shops.First floor has retail, second - fourth floor are residential apartments.
The Updegraff Building was originally constructed for the manufacturing and sale of hats and gloves in 1882 by the Updegraff Family. The development consists of 21 apartments and ground-floor retail. The Updegraff Building is located in Hagerstown’s historic Arts & Entertainment District. The Arts & Entertainment District features numerous off-site amenities including the Maryland Theatre,
Property Id: 2305594 Beautifully renovated house in a nice, quiet area. This home offers updated interiors, plenty of natural light, and private parking for two cars. A perfect place to call home. ?
Property Id: 1850518 Welcome to 660 Oak Hill Avenue, Apartment 1. This clean first-level apartment is a great option for anyone looking for comfortable living with easy access in a great neighborhood. The unit offers convenient first-floor entry, plenty of parking available in both the front and rear of the property, and a spacious dining room area that flows easily into the living
Completely renovated Brick 1/2 duplex! Four bedrooms, 1.5 baths. First floor has large living room, dining room and kitchen with a half bath Second floor offers three bedrooms and brand new full bath. The third bedroom could also be a great nursery or office. This walks out to a covered side porch. Walk up into the third floor , large room that could be a bedroom, large playroom, or additional
Two-story home in Hagerstown, convenient access to downtown and major highways. Three bedrooms and one full bathroom on top floor. Walk-up attic on top floor. Balcony to fenced-in backyard. Pictures coming soon.
Looking for a home with character and convenience? This spacious multi-story apartment offers the perfect blend of comfort and charm!Features include:• One bedroom plus a versatile den—perfect for a home office, reading nook, or a walk-in closet• Fresh new paint throughout for a bright, move-in-ready feel• Beautiful bay windows that fill the home with natural light•
Come see this spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment featuring a comfortable and functional floor plan. The unit offers generously sized bedrooms, plenty of closet space, and an abundance of natural light throughout.Conveniently located in the heart of Hagerstown, you'll be within walking distance of City Park and the Meritus Park baseball stadium, with easy access to shopping, dining, and local
Looking for a place that feels like home? This bright and inviting 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.Enjoy plenty of natural light throughout the home, generously sized rooms that provide plenty of space to relax, and a layout designed for comfortable everyday living.Conveniently located just minutes from local shopping, dining,
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