Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Charles Town, WV
Considering Charles Town, WV for your next move? This charming small city of 6,570 offers affordable living, with median home prices at $355,000 and average rents around $1,410. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate (175 per 100K), a relaxed commute averaging 34 minutes, and a friendly community with above-average schools. Charles Town blends historic appeal with modern amenities, 59% sunny days yearly, and convenient access to healthcare and outdoor recreation, making it a great place for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Charles Town, WV
Demographics - Charles Town, WV
Charles Town has a population of 6,570, featuring a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 38.2, making it appealing to both families and working professionals. The city is predominantly White (77.9%), with a notable Black community (14.3%) and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming and diverse atmosphere. Residents enjoy a moderately dense, close-knit community with a blend of cultural backgrounds.
Population:
6,570
Density:
1,950 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.9%
Black:
14.3%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Charles Town, WV?
Charles Town offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $355,000 and average rent at $1,410 for a two-bedroom apartment. Utilities and groceries remain affordable, and state income taxes range from 3.0% to 6.5%, making the city an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Residents benefit from a balanced cost structure across housing, healthcare, and transportation.
Median House Value:
$355,000
Gross Rent:
$1,410
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,880
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.4
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
91.2
Utilities:
101.5
Transportation:
95.0
Health Care:
99.0
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Charles Town, WV a safe place to live?
Residents of Charles Town experience a relatively low crime rate, with violent crime at 175 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime at 1,430 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of a violent crime is 1 in 570, contributing to the city’s reputation as a safe and welcoming community. This makes Charles Town a reassuring choice for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
175
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,430
Crime Index:
1,605
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 570
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Charles Town, WV year-round?
Charles Town enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging highs of 42°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The city experiences about 59% sunny days annually and receives approximately 37.5 inches of rainfall, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor activities throughout the year. Residents appreciate the balance of sunshine and comfortable seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
42°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
The typical Charles Town household earns around $82,200 annually, with a per capita income of $34,800 and a poverty rate below 10%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the area features a low unemployment rate of 3.9%, reflecting a stable and educated community. Commute times average just over 34 minutes, and the city maintains a family-friendly atmosphere with strong local ties.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$82,200
Family Income:
$92,600
Per Capita Income:
$34,800
Income Male:
$48,900
Income Female:
$40,100
Poverty Rate:
9.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,410
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
34.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
32.8%
Education
How are the schools in Charles Town, WV?
Charles Town supports quality education through well-regarded public and private schools, with public school student-teacher ratios around 15:1. Nearby higher education options include Shepherd University and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, both within a short drive. The city’s commitment to education makes it a great choice for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Charles Town Middle School
Street:
193 High St
Phone:
304-725-7821
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Wright Denny Intermediate School
Street:
209 W Congress St
Phone:
304-725-9481
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
Saint Joseph School
Street:
110 E North St
Phone:
304-725-7767
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Shepherd University
City:
Shepherdstown
State:
WV
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
3,200
Name:
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
City:
Martinsburg
State:
WV
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
Charles Town residents have convenient access to comprehensive healthcare, highlighted by Jefferson Medical Center, a full-service hospital offering emergency care. The city has a high rate of health insurance coverage at 91%, and with 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, medical services are readily available. This ensures peace of mind for families and individuals seeking quality care close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Jefferson Medical Center
Address:
300 S Preston St, Ranson, WV 25438
Phone:
(304) 728-1600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Charles Town, WV?
The housing market in Charles Town is stable, with a median home price of $355,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 67.2%. Rental vacancies are moderate at 6%, and home values have appreciated by 4.2% over the past year, indicating a healthy and growing market. The city offers a range of options for both buyers and renters in a welcoming community.
Median Home Price:
$355,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,410
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Charles Town are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Martinsburg. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and registration, supported by accessible contact options and an informative website. This ensures local drivers can efficiently manage their transportation needs.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
57 Eisenhower Dr, Suite 2, Martinsburg, WV 25404
Phone:
1-304-558-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.