Ranson

Located near the Virginia and Maryland borders, Ranson, West Virginia is a great town for those who like to have a good time. “We’re so close to the Shenandoah River, the Potomac and Harpers Ferry,” says Matt Ridgeway of RE/MAX Real Estate Group. “It’s an awesome place for people who like to go fishing or hunting and people who want to get out and hike.” Ranson sits 65 miles northwest of D.C. via Highway 267, but you can take Highway 9 and be in Northern Virginia suburbs like Leesburg in half the time.

Despite its rural feel, Ranson features a good deal of townhomes that start near $250,000. Four-bedroom brick builds begin at $400,000, and remodeled Cape Cod-style homes can run up to $640,000. These homes are on backroads, far off the main drag. The properties are spread out and there is plenty of room between houses. “We’re in the sweet spot for the region,” says Ridgeway. “The population is lower and that means there is more room, and the cost of living is better than the nearby areas.”

Ranson children enter Ranson Elementary, part of the Jefferson County School District. Ranson Elementary holds a B-minus rating on niche and was rated West Virginia’s second most diverse elementary school. The school is undergoing a complete $35 million renovation. Students move on to Harpers Ferry Middle School, which holds a B-plus rating on Niche, before going to Jefferson High. Jefferson is known for a robust athletics program and Niche rates it one of the top schools in West Virginia for athletes. The baseball team has won 12 state titles, while the girls track and softball teams both won state in 2022.

In addition to the nearby rivers and campgrounds, residents can head to Sam Michael’s Park for sand volleyball and multiple playgrounds. The park also features an amphitheater for live music and events, as well as horseshoe pits. For an outdoor workout, James Hite Park has a fitness trail that is sure to test your limits. There are also walking trails, basketball courts, a mini golf course and a dog park so your pup can get some exercise too. James Hite Park is home to a great deal of youth sporting events including baseball and football games. Ranson Family Park & Playground has tennis courts, playgrounds and a good deal of green space to have a picnic. For a change of pace, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town is a full casino with table games, slot machines and a sportsbook for those looking to place a wager. “The thorough bread racing is something not a lot of places have,” says Ridgeway.

Locals flock to Ortega’s Taco Shop for authentic Mexican. Ortega’s is serving up tacos, burritos and more using locally sourced meats and produce. Alfredo’s Mediterranean Grille and Steakhouse has plenty of offerings sure to please the palate. Alfredo’s has everything from kabobs to New York strip steaks, and an extensive Italian menu. For a craft beer, Abolitionist Ale Works has you covered. Grab one of the dozens of home brews on tap, paired perfectly with the specialty personal pizzas. Look no further than KCR Barrel Saloon for a cocktail. KCR is a great spot to watch a game or play some pool. Dreamy B Bakery is baking up cupcakes, cookies and more to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Those looking for groceries will head down William L. Wilson Freeway where there is an Aldi and Martin’s, perfect for stocking up for the week ahead. For all household conveniences, shoppers can head to Walmart. There is not much more retail in the Ranson area, but Ridgeway claims that isn’t an issue, “We have Home Depot, Walmart and really everything you would need on a day-to-day basis. It’s a really pleasant place to live.”

Written By

John Moyer

Photography Contributed By

David MacNeill

Video By

Mike Dunleavy