As the easternmost point of the West Virginia panhandle, Jefferson County can actually be considered part of the Washington, D.C. metro area. It sits just over the Potomac River from Virginia and within easy reach of 1-270 in Maryland. As a result, the county’s 50,000 residents enjoy easy access to an almost unlimited number of big city amenities. This makes Jefferson County attractive to those looking to relocate close to a major employment center.

Jefferson County was formed in 1801, and many buildings from that era are still on display today, thanks in large part to preservation efforts by the Jefferson County Historic Landmarks Commission. The Harpers Ferry Historic District, located in Harpers Ferry, boasts almost 100 historic structures, in addition to the 4,000-acre Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Jefferson County’s seat is Charles Town, which has a modest population of just over 3,000. Charles Town’s youths, and indeed all county youths, are served by the Jefferson County Public School System, which comprises nine elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools.