A West Virginia city on the rise, both locally and nationally
Martinsburg, West Virginia, is traditionally thought of as a small town on the outer edge of the Washington, D.C. Metro area. It is the county seat of Berkeley County, and it has seen significant population growth in recent years, from around 17,500 in 2020 to about 18,900 in 2021. “People moved out here in droves after 2020, and West Virginia has been bringing lots of investment for education and tech infrastructure,” says Realtor Tracey Scott with Park Realty, who is a lifelong resident. “Government jobs with the ATF, Customs and Border Patrol, IRS and VA are all here. Proctor and Gamble and Clorox recently came in and created opportunities in the private sector. West Virginia University just acquired the hospital system and has totally revamped it, so there’s a lot going on.” In addition to its booming industry, the city has a thriving arts scene, attracting students from nearby colleges and trade schools and breathing life into the historic downtown district. However, Martinsburg still retains a rural atmosphere, driven in large part by its proximity to the Appalachian Trail. All this has served to make this small town intensely appealing to families and professionals, many of whom arrive for work and choose to make the city their home. “I was born and raised here, and I love it. I’ve raised my 7 kids here,” says Scott. “There’s a lot of opportunity for outdoor recreation, plus there’s the proximity to all these national treasures – the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Shenandoah River – think John Denver. That song is real when it comes to this part of West Virginia.”
Proctor and Gamble recently came in and created job opportunities in Martinsburg.
The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia are close to Martinsburg.
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Historic homes downtown and new builds in suburban communities, all within view of the mountains
Between the city and the suburbs, Martinsburg offers a wide variety of home styles for prospective owners. “In town, you’ll find everything from new luxury townhouses to 1900s colonials, all within walking distance of the Amtrak,” Scott says. “Towards the outskirts, there are a lot of suburban communities, still with mountain views and winding roads.” Older townhouses near the center of town that may need renovations begin around $105,000, while newer-build townhouses in the suburbs can rise to about $400,000. Many historic homes sit on tight square lots in and around the downtown district, often surrounded by fences and sparse ribbons of green lawns. These can cost anywhere from $120,000 to $500,000, depending on the number of bedrooms and the condition of the property. Moving toward the suburbs, buyers will find midcentury communities full of Colonial Revivals, minimalist split-levels and modern traditional constructions with spacious front and backyards, with prices ranging from $170,000 to $515,000.
Charming historic homes are abundant throughout Martinsburg.
Modern colonial homes with spacious backyards are what you will find in Martinsburg.
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Outdoor recreation is a way of life in Martinsburg
Martinsburg’s online welcome page promotes the city as the “Gateway to the Shenandoah Valley” due to its proximity to the Appalachian Trail. Popular hiking trails such as the Tuscaroara are part of this larger and more famous path, although not as challenging as might be expected. Locals also have access to 18 public parks, each spanning multiple acres and many featuring one or more baseball diamonds. In the face of an expanding population, the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks and Recreation Department plans to expand the city’s park system by 2032 by connecting Lake Thomas, the War Memorial and several area trails. Fishing and boating on the nearby Potomac River are also popular weekend pastimes.
Enjoy a friendly game of hoops at the East Burke Street Park in Martinsburg.
Potomac River in Martinsburg is a stunning natural landmark that enhances the area's beauty and recreational opportunities.
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Shopping centers along the interstate supplement the local businesses found downtown
Grocery stores and big-box retailers can be found in the shopping centers lining Interstate 81, along with casual eateries and local chains like Café Del Sol, popular for its pizza and its unique Asian-fusion menu. The walkable downtown district is home to many locally-owned boutiques, restaurants and businesses. “There’s been a heavy emphasis on revitalization in downtown Martinsburg,” Scott says. “On Queen Street, people can find anything from a local chocolatier to a whiskey bar to fine dining restaurants.” Counter-service options like Habanero Mexican Grill draw crowds of hungry customers from lunchtime on, while Stoney’s Whiskey, Wine and Raw Bar offers an upscale option for a Friday date night.
Big box stores and local grocery stores are abundant to Martinsburg.
Residents line up for some authentic mexican food at Habanero Mexican Grill in Martinsburg.
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Martinsburg's surprisingly active arts community
Outsiders may be surprised to learn about Martinsburg’s vibrant arts scene. Downtown, facilities like Berkeley Art Works exhibit the creative output of local artists, and venues like The Roundhouse host events year-round, including public gatherings like the Martinsburg Farmers Market and private events like weddings. Performing arts are also a staple of the community. The Apollo Civic Theatre, colloquially known as the “Miracle on East Martin Street”, dates to the Second World War and continues to host free movie nights, youth theater workshops and live music.
Berkeley Art Works exhibits the creative output of local artists in Martinsburg.
Nestled in the heart of Martinsburg, the Apollo Civic Theatre is a captivating gem that showcases the beauty of live performance.
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Public schools and nearby colleges offer many educational opportunities
Martinsburg is zoned for Berkeley County Public Schools, a district that earns an overall B-minus from Niche. City residents can send their children to Berkeley Heights Elementary, Martinsburg South Middle and Martinsburg High, all of which are located downtown on Queen Street. There are also five private schools in the city, including Faith Christian Academy, which is among the top 20 in the state. Several nearby colleges and technical schools drive higher education in Martinsburg. Shepherd University, a 4-year liberal arts institution founded in 1871, is just under 10 miles east of the city. Trade schools like Valley College and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College offer programs and certifications in information technology, engineering and health sciences.
Berkeley Heights Elementary School stands as a nurturing and inspiring environment dedicated to fostering the curiosity and growth of young minds in Martinsburg.
Martinsburg High School is a distinguished institution that embodies academic excellence and community spirit in Martinsburg.
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Interstates and commuter trains make getting to D.C. a simple task
Many residents choose Martinsburg due to its position along major interstate highways. “Logistically, we’re one of the most cost-effective communities within range of the D.C. Metro area,” Scott says. “We’re right along Interstate 81, which you can take down to Interstate 66 and all the way into Washington.” The shortest possible route is a 77-mile trek eastward, and commuters should expect major congestion along the highway during rush hour. Many will elect to catch the commuter train from Martinsburg Station, which arrives at Union Station in D.C. within roughly 2 hours. Public transportation is also available within the city, as bus lines run along Route 11, covering essentials such as the library and the Shenandoah Community Health medical center.
Crime rates are below average, but drinking water remains a concern
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, violent crime rates in Martinsburg were above national and state averages at the beginning of 2023. However, this rate dipped below the average by the end of the year. Property crime rates remained at or below the nationwide average throughout 2023.
A 2020 study by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed elevated blood levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances found throughout 165 sampled households in Martinsburg. The presence of these harmful chemicals was 2.5 times higher than the national level and 60 percent higher than in other areas of Berkeley County. These results seem to indicate contamination in the drinking water, a concern that remains relevant in 2024.
Written By
Hugh Taylor
Photography Contributed By
Joseph Furio
Video By
Adam Lapallo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Martinsburg, WV sell after 43 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Martinsburg, WV over the last 12 months is $306,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious end unit townhome in Spring Mills with an incredible maintenance-free backyard! A wood privacy fence encloses the yard, along with trees and bushes for privacy (including a plum tree!). You'll love the custom stamped concrete patio and fully hardscaped back & side yard. The adjacent common area along the side and back of the house creates even more space. Large visitor parking lot just
Spacious, Upgraded Townhome in Prime Location! Conveniently located just off I-81 and close to major highways, this beautifully finished three-level townhome with a garage offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality.Step inside from the lower level, where you’ll find a welcoming entryway leading to a spacious rec room with sliding glass doors that open to your private fenced-in
Welcome to your waterfront (Opequon Creek) 5 acre home at the end of a cul de sac. This home features 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. The main floor offers a large living room with gas a fireplace. Gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, soft close cabinets, granite countertops, large island and pantry. There is a first-floor half bath off of the foyer. A sliding glass door leads to your
Are you ready for summer? You will be in this beautifully maintained home! The Stonebridge community has a pool, tennis court, basketball area, playground and a community golf course with restaurant available just across the street! This home has a spacious floor plan, which features a great room with vaulted ceiling and gas log fireplace, 4BR 3.5 BA and a morning room that leads to the large
Welcome to this beautiful two-story colonial that checks all the boxes on your wish list! Nestled in a quiet neighborhood with stunning views of the West Virginia mountains, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and countryside charm—just minutes from major commuter routes.The main level features a formal dining room, a versatile formal sitting room
Finding a luxurious apartment home in Martinsburg has never been easier. Experience the finest in apartment living at Martin's Landing Apartments. Our warm and inviting apartment community is nestled in a lovely neighborhood where everything you love is just minutes away. Our community is conveniently close to Amtrak, the Eastern WV Regional Airport, major highways and local shopping.
Welcome to 103 Peking Ln, a well-maintained home nestled in the quiet and desirable Red Hill neighborhood of Martinsburg, WV. This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 2,064 sq ft of comfortable living space, featuring a modern kitchen with granite countertops and plenty of room to entertain.Conveniently located just 8 minutes to the Martinsburg MARC Train Station for direct access to
A must see property with plenty of natural light and amazing mountain views! This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home at 377 Aylesbury Ln offers 1,906 square feet of living space. The living room provides ample room for relaxation and entertainment, while the kitchen includes essential stainless steel appliances and a large pantry. The master bathroom features double vanities and a tub/shower
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