Tucked into the rolling hills of Jefferson County, Charles Town feels like a place where history and everyday life meet in the best way. Founded by Charles Washington—yes, George Washington’s brother—this small town has roots that run deep, yet it’s still growing and thriving today.
Walk down the streets of downtown and you’ll see why people fall in love with it here. The Old Opera House still lights up its stage with plays and concerts, while local cafés, shops, and restaurants buzz with neighbors catching up. On a Friday night, you might hear the cheers from the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, where thoroughbred horses still thunder past the finish line.
If you’re house hunting, Charles Town has plenty of choices. You’ll find charming historic homes with stories in their walls, newer neighborhoods with modern layouts and family-friendly vibes, and rural properties just outside town where mountain views stretch for miles. Compared to nearby Northern Virginia, buyers here get more space and value—without giving up easy access to commuter routes into D.C. or Maryland.
Weekends here are made for exploring. Hike the trails at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, float down the Shenandoah or Potomac Rivers, or sip your way through nearby wineries and breweries. When the seasons change, so does the town—farmers markets, parades, and art festivals keep the community spirit alive all year long.
The Jefferson County Courthouse in Charles Town is where John Brown stood trial after the raid on Harpers Ferry.
Charles Town is named after Charles Washington, George’s youngest brother, whose legacy still shapes the community.
Some of the town’s inns and taverns have been welcoming guests for more than two centuries.
Life in Charles Town feels slower, simpler, and more connected—without being too far from the bustle when you want it. It’s a place where neighbors wave from their porches, kids play in the parks, and history is woven into the everyday backdrop. For homebuyers, it’s the rare mix of affordability, charm, and opportunity that makes it easy to say: this feels like home.
20,273 people live in Charles Town, where the median age is 41.1 and the average individual income is $47,607. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Charles Town, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Rossy's On Wheels, Joan + Joe Coffee, and R&R Catering.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 3.4 miles | 6 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining | 1.91 miles | 17 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.03 miles | 4 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 2.62 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Charles Town has 7,797 households, with an average household size of 2.58. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Charles Town do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 20,273 people call Charles Town home. The population density is 358.34 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
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Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
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White Collar:
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