Industrial roots meet convenience in Martins Ferry
Martins Ferry rests about 4 miles from downtown Wheeling along the Ohio River. “This region is the hub of the Ohio Valley for those who don’t want to live in the city, like Pittsburgh, an hour away, or Columbus, two hours away,” says Markita Thomas, a Re/Max Broadwater associate with four years of experience in the area. “It’s for somebody who wants the in-between lifestyle: a slower pace and a hometown feel, as well as many things going on.” Martins Ferry is one of the state's first settlements. The city’s aged workers' cottages and repurposed warehouses reflect its history as a 19th-century industrial center along the B&O Railroad. The area now has modern amenities, including highway access and commercial development, making it a convenient home base for over 6,000 residents.
Industrial buildings stand the test of time holding stories of great works created in Martins Ferry.
Welcome to Center Wheeling, where your new life will improve every day.
1/2
Century-old homes on both urban and rural roads
The market is mostly made up of single-family homes built between the late 19th and mid-20th centuries. Housing styles include Victorian builds, Capes and bungalows. Residential lots near the heart of the city are densely packed on hilly streets, lined with sidewalks, and sometimes feature modest yards. On the outskirts of town, properties are more secluded off deep country roads. The median price is about $125,000, slightly higher than the median in Wheeling, which falls around $110,000.
Drive around Martins Ferry and see lovely Victorian style homes.
Head closer to town and find sturdy brick built homes in Martins Ferry.
1/2
A community recreation center and nearby parks
The valley offers plenty of outdoor spaces and activities, from fishing on the Ohio River to hunting in the Belmont County woods. The Martins Ferry Veterans Memorial Recreation Center has a pool and a basketball court that occasionally opens for roller skaters. The rec center is a popular place to hold private parties and events. Community parks with playgrounds and athletic fields are available in Wheeling and the Oglebay Resort. “People often travel over to Oglebay for its parks, ponds, pools and lodging,” Thomas says. About 8 miles away, Oglebay has a zoo, golf courses and trails open to resort guests and visitors with a day pass. Barkcamp State Park, 20 miles west, has more extensive trails, campsites and a sandy beach on Belmont Lake.
The local public pool is located at the Veterans Memorial Recreational Center.
For older children, Fodor Memorial Park offers a larger play area.
1/2
Downtown dining serves international flavors
Fourth Street anchors downtown Martins Ferry. The road features old brick buildings that house restaurants, banks and churches, backed by towering trees on the hills in the distance. Thomas says that Hot Rod Tattooing & Body Piercing has been a staple in the community for 28 years, making it the oldest parlor in the Ohio Valley. Belmont Brewerks serves regional ales both indoors and outdoors on a small lawn with picnic tables. New Hong Kong Restaurant is a popular spot for Asian cuisine. “One reason I love it is they put actual pieces of steak in the beef lo mein,” Thomas says. “It’s got the best Chinese food I’ve ever had.” Martins Ferry has a Kroger and Dollar General for essentials, and the closest Walmart is 12 miles west in St. Clairsville.
Hot Rod Tattoos is a long standing local business in Martins Ferry.
Downtown Martins Ferry is home to several houses of worship.
1/2
Students attend Martin Ferry City Schools
Children often begin their education at Anna Marie Ayers Elementary, which earns a B-minus rating from Niche. Martins Ferry Middle scores a C-plus, and Martins Ferry High has a C. High schoolers can choose from 11 athletic programs, ranging from football to bowling.
Anna Marie Ayers Elementary School students are at least 67% proficient in reading according to test scores.
According to state test scores, 17% of Martins Ferry High School students are at least proficient in math.
1/2
Annual traditions in town and across the river
Martins Ferry hosts several events throughout the year. The Strawberry Festival kicks off the summer with live music, a car show and vendors selling strawberry treats. Residents gather during the holidays for the Martins Ferry Winterfest, which features a parade, a tree-lighting ceremony and a Jingle Bell Run. People often go to Wheeling for events, including FunFest Fridays, a weekly summer celebration with live music and an inflatable zone at Wheeling Park. Waterfront Hall is a bar and music venue in Wheeling for live entertainment.
Transportation by car and access to medical care in Wheeling
State Route 7 is Martins Ferry’s main thoroughfare. The route heads toward Pittsburgh, 60 miles northeast. It also connects with Interstate 470, which leads to Columbus, 130 miles west. Pittsburgh has the closest international airport. The Eastern Ohio Regional Transit Authority offers a few fixed routes in town. Downtown Wheeling, 4 miles away, has the nearest hospital in the West Virginia University Medicine health care system.
Written By
Grace Pitney
Photography Contributed By
Anthony Kelly
Video By
Timothy Cerva
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Erica Tamburin,
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 Martins Ferry, OH sell after 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Martins Ferry, OH over the last 12 months is $115,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Attention investors! 57212 West Lawn includes five parcels and is ready for a rehab. The property is being sold as-is and is filled with personal property. Cash or renovation financing likely required. Strong potential for those looking for their next project.
Welcome to 412 Concord St in Martins Ferry, Ohio—a beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home that blends modern upgrades with everyday comfort. From the moment you step inside, you’ll appreciate the fresh, inviting feel created by brand-new flooring that flows throughout the home, offering both durability and style. The fully updated kitchen is a standout feature, boasting sleek cabinetry, ample
Renovated, roomy, and ready for you - Step into this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick home that combines comfort, charm, and ample living space. Inside, you'll enjoy a spacious layout with a partially finished basement that offers flexibility for storage, recreation, or future expansion. Situated in town and just a short distance from the Scenic Ohio River, this home provides everyday
Taylor TalbottColdwell Banker EvenBay Real Estate LLC
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath home located in the heart of Martins Ferry! Perfectly situated in town, this property offers convenient access to schools, dining, shops and more. Step inside and you'll immediately notice the fresh, modern updates throughout. This home has been completely renovated, featuring all new flooring, paint and updated fixtures that create a clean
Just in time for the new year! 1511 N 9th St., Martins Ferry! Your new home is 1420 sq ft brick ranch home with attached garage -easy access to Rt 7 and is situated on a back street. Three bedrooms, two full bathrooms on main level and a full bath in the basement. Roof was updated in 2024, breaker box 2020, furnace/ AC 2015. Plenty of storage, Kid friendly home with awesome view and a great patio
Beautifully landscaped property offering comfort, flexibility, and income potential! This charming home features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, including the convenience of a full bath on the first floor—perfect for easy living. The inviting layout provides both functionality and warmth throughout. Step outside to enjoy a meticulously maintained yard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. A standout
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home situated on a spacious corner lot. Located in the country, yet just a short drive into town, this property offers the best of both worlds—peaceful rural living with nearby convenience. Inside, you'll find a cozy layout perfect for those just starting out, looking to downsize, or anyone in need of flexible living space. Don’t miss this great
Welcome to 900 N 6th St in Martins Ferry, Ohio, a beautifully fully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering modern finishes, functional living space, and an impressive just under half-acre lot. This move-in-ready property combines comfort, style, and room to grow. Inside, you'll find new flooring throughout, providing a clean, contemporary look that flows seamlessly from room to room. The
Welcome to 58640 Charles Street in Martins Ferry—a home that offers comfort, space, and everyday livability in a convenient location. Step inside to find a warm and inviting layout with generously sized living areas, perfect for both relaxing evenings and entertaining guests. Natural light fills the home, highlighting the functional flow from room to room. The kitchen provides ample space for
Great opportunity for investors and renovators! This property is a true value-add opportunity, ready for your vision and improvements. In need of rehab, it offers strong potential for increased equity and cash flow once updated. With solid bones and a functional layout, this home is ideal for a fix-and-flip or long-term rental addition to your investment portfolio. Conveniently located near local
Looking for your next investment? This is the perfect property to add to your portfolio. This property is a true value-add opportunity, ready for your vision and improvements. In need of rehab, it offers strong potential for increased equity and cash flow once updated. Conveniently located near local amenities, schools, and major routes, it’s positioned for strong rental demand and future
Seller is offering Seller Financing! Restore this home back to its former glory! With 4 beds, 1 + 1/2 bath, and over 2000 square feet, this house would make a perfect home for any growing family. Seller is very motivated. Bring your ideas and your vision board and make this home yours today!
Property Id: 1666290This cozy two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment is available on 108 North 9th Street, Martins Ferry, OH. This apartment is within walking distance of Martins Ferry restaurants, stores and parks. The apartment features include: a private outdoor porch, spacious rooms, window AC units, high efficiency gas central heat, step in friendly shower, stove/oven, refrigerator.
Newly remodeled 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom house available immediately!$1,000 monthTenant pays all utilities $1,000 deposit due upon move-inHas off-street parking, stainless steel appliances, and W/D in-unit
Newly renovated 4 bed 2 bath home. Has a deck, stainless steel appliances, finished basement space, and W/D hook-ups. Currently still under construction but will be available by May 1st. Please reach out to me and I can show you the under construction photos or have you stop by to see if it may work for you. Pets are allowed with a $300 pet fee and $50/moper pet rent. $1,400 a
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.
