8 Great Reasons to Move to Hagerstown, Maryland

There are many great reasons to move to Hagerstown, Maryland.

From its rich history to its natural beauty to its proximity to major cities, Hagerstown has grown as a very important part of Maryland and a great place to call home.

Originally called “Hager’s Fancy,” Hagerstown has been an important town in Maryland history and that of the country. The biggest town in the Maryland Panhandle, Hagerstown rests between two mountain ranges—the Blue Ridge and the Allegheny—creating a valley of semi-rural wonder in Washington County.

DRB Homes brings over 30 years of building excellence to communities in Hagerstown. Partnering with some of the most sought-after and well-respected vendors, we make sure that every new home we build is just as perfect as the last one: full of all the top features, finishes, and technologies that new homebuyers crave.

Join us as we explore why Hagerstown is such a unique and wonderful place to live as we present 8 Great Reasons to Move to Hagerstown, Maryland.

1. Hagerstown’s Affordable Living

Because Hagerstown is still somewhat close to Washington DC, its cost of living is higher than other semi-rural areas: being at 18.4% higher than the national average. However, to truly understand Hagerstown’s affordability, the cost of living really needs to be compared to other locales in the National Capital Region.

Let’s start with the two biggest cities: Washington DC and Baltimore, MD. Hagerstown’s cost of living is about 27% less than DC, but interestingly about 6.6% more than Baltimore. To compare to a suburb of DC, we’ll look at Bethesda, MD, where the cost difference is the same as DC. But that almost doesn’t seem fair to compare, so let’s look closer to Hagerstown. Frederick, MD, has a similar vibe, just about 25 minutes closer to DC. That distance makes Hagerstown’s cost of living 12.9% less than Frederick.

Hagerstown also has more affordable energy, food, healthcare, and transportation that the national average. And, most importantly for this blog, more affordable housing (at 5.4% less than the national average). With a look into this Western Maryland town, we want to highlight two communities where DRB Homes is building homes of distinction.

In Westfields, we present new construction one- and two-level single family homes. Six spacious and luxurious home plans are available in Hagerstown’s #1 planned community. Spend the day shopping at either Hagerstown Premium Outlets or the Valley Mall, each about 10 minutes away. You can be dining in downtown Hagerstown in just about 15 minutes. Hike the historic Appalachian Trail (about 20 minutes away), visit the Antietam Battlefield (a short 13-minute drive), or go fishing in Devils Backbone Park (just 8 minutes to the south). Closer to home, enjoy the community walking trail, park with playground, basketball court, tennis courts, gazebo, and pool. You can also easily walk to Rockland Woods Elementary School located right in the community.

We are also proud to build 55+ Active Adult Villas in Rosehill Manor. These homes are surrounded by towering trees and set in a peaceful setting where lawn maintenance and snow removal services come with the home! Here, you’ll live close to all the same wonderful features as Westfields, and be even closer to some wonderful places in Hagerstown. Mills Park is just 6 minutes away, Fairgrounds Park is about an 11-minute drive, and within 15 minutes you can be enjoying Hagerstown City Park. A short 5-minute drive will get you to the Pennsylvania Dutch Market and 10 minutes will get you into the heart of Hagerstown.

2. Hagerstown’s Rich Historical Background

Since it officially became Hagerstown in 1813, this area has been an important location on the North/South border. During the Civil War, it was a staging ground for both Confederate and Union troops and as a base of attack.

Following the war, the railroads realized the importance of Hagerstown’s unique location. Multiple railroads travelled across Hagerstown’s tracks. This, combined with all the roads that ran through the town, earned it the nickname of Hub City. Because of this connection to other towns and cities, as well as the state’s past, Hagerstown has history at every turn.

One year after Johnathan Hager bought 200 acres of land which he called “Hager’s Fancy,” he presented this home to his new wife. And since that moment in 1740, Hager House (as it has become known) has been carefully preserved, restored, and turned into a museum. Full of authentic furnishings, visitors can step into Hagerstown’s past and experience a little bit of what life used to be like. They can also see Little Heiskell. This weathervane dates from 1769, and has stood over the Market House and City Hall before finding its resting place at the museum.

Jonathan Hager has been called the “Father of Washington County,” which is fitting that the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is also in Hagerstown. This museum brings “art of lasting quality” to the entire area, with permanent collections, traveling exhibitions, concerts, lectures, classes, and workshops. And free admission and parking means the arts are available for all!

3. Hagerstown’s Breathtaking Natural Beauty

As mentioned in the opening, Hagerstown sits between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountain ranges providing picturesque views and natural adventures in every direction. It also means that there are many opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Visit City Park’s man-made lakes, wooded trails, picnic areas, sport fields, and other recreation facilities. City Park is also home to the Hager House and Museum and the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts! Also, make sure to enjoy Fairgrounds Park, the city’s largest recreation park. Here, you’ll find a lighted basketball court/in-line hocky rink, skatepark, dog park, sports fields, walking trails, and more. Fairgrounds Park is also home to many community events and festivals, including the annual Fourth of July fireworks!

Another great place to get outside and breathe in the outdoors is the Western Maryland Rail Trail. This paved trail stretches 26 miles across the state. Enjoy river views, mountain vistas, tunnels, and wilderness all around you. This is a fantastic outing for families and beginner bike riders as the trail is just about entirely flat, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Hagerstown also puts you about 20 minutes away from the famed Appalachian Trail. This trail crosses many states from Georgia to Maine as it winds amongst the scenic Appalachian Mountain Range, stretching for over 2,190 miles. Some parts are gentle, some are for the more adventurous and seasoned hiker, but all of the trail rewards you with a connection to the country’s natural past.

4. Hagerstown’s Cultural and Artistic Scene

Hagerstown bursts with culture and artistry. One of the highlights of Hagerstown's artistic scene is The Maryland Theatre, a majestic venue that has been showcasing incredible performances for over 100 years. From riveting plays to captivating musicals, this historic theater never fails to transport its audience into another world.

Hagerstown is also home to the renowned Maryland Symphony Orchestra (MSO). This talented group of musicians brings classical music to life in the most enchanting way possible. Since 1982, the MSO has been delighting audiences with concerts and classes, educating and entertaining at the same time. Now under the baton of Music Director and Conductor Elizabeth Schulze, who has worked with and conducted orchestras all over the world.

We’ve already mentioned Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, but that’s not the only place to view artistic endeavors. Right up the hill from that museum is the Mansion House Art Center showcasing local artists from The Valley Art Association and its members who stretch across three states. You can even stop by the Washington County Arts Council to check out a rotating gallery of local artists. The arts are alive in Hagerstown!

Hagerstown also hosts some unique events that provide even more flavor for the community. Outdoor movies make evenings at City Park a family affair. The Harvest Hoedown at Fairgrounds Park offers an afternoon of scarecrow making, pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, and more. And the town’s annual Howl-o-Ween Dog Costume Parade involves the whole family in seasonal fun. From annual fireworks to winter light lighting, Hagerstown’s culture highlights this remarkable community.

5. Hagerstown is a Family-Friendly Community

Hagerstown is a wonderful place for families to call home. With its focus on education, there are plenty of schools in the area to provide children with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. From elementary schools to high schools, parents can rest assured knowing that their kids are receiving a great education.

When it comes to entertainment, Hagerstown has plenty of family-friendly options to keep everyone delighted. From movie theaters, to bowling alleys (like Seven 10 Entertainment Center), to arcades (check out Tilt Studio), to mini-golf courses (including Putt-Putt at Yinglings Golf Center), there's always something exciting to enjoy. And if you're looking for some outdoor fun, you won't be disappointed either. Hagerstown’s 22 local parks offer beautiful green spaces where you can have picnics, go for walks, play sports, and find all sort of activities to join for both adults and children.

Community activities play a big role in bringing families together and fostering a sense of belonging. Hagerstown understands this importance and offers various events throughout the year that cater to families. Outdoor movies at City Park delight during the summer months, a free City Park Fall Fest helps families usher in the cooler season, community yard sales throughout the year help you get rid of things you don’t need (and find new treasures you do), and a Drive-Through Trick-or-Treat event are just some of the exciting happenings that bring the community closer together.

6. Hagerstown’s Accessibility and Location

Hagerstown’s prime location has always played a crucial role in its development. As it used to be a strategic hub for armies and railroads, Hagerstown still sits at the commuting crossroads with I-70 waiting to take you east or west and I-81 heading north and south. This travel advantage brings numerous benefits to the city and its residents.

Our Hagerstown, MD communities are about 1.5 hours from Baltimore and Washington DC, and about 1.25 hours from Harrisburg, PA. This opens up a world of opportunities for both business and leisure. Residents of Hagerstown have easy access to the economic and cultural offerings of these metropolitan areas without having to deal with the daily hustle and bustle that comes with living in a big city.

You’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquility and charm of a smaller town and the convenience of accessible big cities. That is exactly what Hagerstown offers. With its unique location, residents can savor the peaceful atmosphere of their hometown while still being within reach of endless possibilities for work, education, entertainment, and more. And not only does Hagerstown's strategic position benefit its residents, but it also attracts businesses looking for an advantageous home base—which leads us into the next section!

7. Hagerstown’s Burgeoning Economic Opportunities

Hagerstown is a place full of exciting opportunities for its residents. With its growing economy, there are plenty of local businesses that offer job openings and contribute to the city's economic growth. With all the area’s history, tourism is a big industry. From the battlefields to the museums, many visitors come to learn about Hagerstown’s past.

The city’s other main industries are agriculture, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and e-commerce fulfillment services. That last one might come as a surprise, but it’s due to the lower warehouse costs here than in other areas in the state. The Hagerstown Premium Outlets also boost the area’s economy (as well as being an amazing place to shop for deals).

The presence of Hagerstown Regional Airport brings numerous benefits to the community. Not only does it provide convenient air travel options for both residents and visitors, but it also serves as a hub for various businesses. Many companies have chosen to establish their operations near the airport, taking advantage of the accessibility it offers. This has led to an increase in job opportunities, providing employment for individuals in the region.

8. Hagerstown’s Diverse Dining and Culinary Scene

Though between two mountains, Hagerstown boasts a vibrant foodie and restaurant culture that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. From quaint cafés to elegant restaurants, there’s something for every palate. Here are just a few of our favorite places to dine.

Celebrating Johnathan Hager’s German roots, one delicious (and uniquely Hagerstownian) place to eat is Schmankerl Stube. Serving up authentic Bavarian cuisine, this cornerstone of downtown Hagerstown will transport diners to Old Bavaria. Some will say Schmankerl Strube is the best, but others will say it’s the wurst!

Another local favorite is District Provision & Supply. Operating as a deli during the day and a tapas restaurant at night, District Provision & Supply offers a diverse and nutritious array of curated dishes. Enjoy a tuna melt at lunch and then come back for a delicious order of shrimp ceviche tacos or scallop risotto.

Our final recommendation is something you’d expect to find open in the morning, but this place is only open at night: Krumpe’s Do-nuts. A Hagerstown destination for over 80 years, Krumpe’s is one of those places that words just can’t do justice. Once your tastebuds have sampled one of Krumpe’s long john’s or peanut butter twists, all other donuts will pale in comparison. 

Hagerstown also takes pride in showcasing the region's rich agricultural traditions with various farmers markets throughout the city. Since 1783, the Historic City Farmers Market has been showcasing and selling the best produce, fresh baked goods, and handcrafted items: It’s the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the state! Not to be outdone, though, the Pennsylvania Dutch Market offers exceptional food and products from local Amish and Mennonite merchants. Two truly amazing pillars of Hagerstown’s unique history.

Final Words on Great Reasons to Move to Hagerstown

Hagerstown has so much to offer that it's easy to see why so many would consider moving here. From its rich history and unparalleled natural beauty to its family-friendly atmosphere and blossoming job opportunities, Hagerstown welcomes everyone.

One of the most attractive aspects of Hagerstown is its affordability. Housing prices are reasonable, making it a great place to settle down without breaking the bank. The city also boasts an array of fantastic events throughout the year. Whether you're into art exhibits, music festivals, or food specialties, Hagerstown has it all. The community really comes together to create a vibrant atmosphere that residents can enjoy.

When you are looking for a picturesque place to call home, look no further than Hagerstown. Come visit this charming city firsthand and experience everything it has to offer. And then contact DRB Homes to find your forever home in Hub City.