The Best Town In Maryland For Seniors
Once a junction for the National Road, the B&O Railroad, and the C&O Canal, Cumberland still carries the marks of its transportation past. Today, that history meets a pedestrian-friendly downtown, an active arts district, and a mountain setting that gives the town a slower, steadier pace. About 23 percent of Cumberland’s residents are over 65, and seniors are drawn here by its lower cost of living, natural beauty, and range of local amenities. Its location near the borders of West Virginia and Pennsylvania adds convenience without detracting from its small-town feel. Together, those qualities make Cumberland a strong choice for seniors in Maryland.
Location and History
Cumberland, Maryland, is in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Allegany County. Once Maryland's second-largest city, Cumberland, founded in 1787, is still known as the "Queen City." Cumberland sits along the mountainside near the North Branch of the Potomac River, which marks the town's southern border and creates the border between Maryland and West Virginia. Cumberland is about 105 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; 75 miles from Morgantown, West Virginia; and 67 miles from Hagerstown, Maryland.
During the French and Indian War, Fort Cumberland was a major outpost where George Washington had his first headquarters. Cumberland was also a junction for the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad, the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal, and the National Road. Cumberland was particularly important to the transportation of coal and iron.
Today, Cumberland is known for its Arts & Entertainment District in the historic town center, with art galleries like the Ferleman Gallery and venues such as the Embassy Theater. Events like the annual Mountain Maryland Plein Air exhibition also bring painters from across the United States to paint the area’s vistas, forests, and historic landmarks.
Downtown Area
Walkability is an important consideration for many seniors. Cumberland's downtown has been revitalized with pedestrians in mind. Baltimore Street now features a redeveloped streetscape with one lane of slow-moving traffic, with wider sidewalks, local shops, and outdoor dining. The area includes ADA improvements to curbs and sidewalks, with accessible parking and access to public transportation.
Those interested in Cumberland’s history can take the Downtown Cumberland Historic Walking Tour. This self-guided tour of some of the town's distinctive historical landmarks includes the Allegany Museum, featuring exhibits on local history; the Lila Building, which once housed one of Maryland’s largest financial institutions outside of Baltimore; and the historic South Centre Street armory building.
Downtown Cumberland includes shops like Barkin' Basement Thrift Shop and Craft Table, as well as eateries such as Basecamp Coffee Company and City Lights American Grill.
Housing Options and Affordability
According to Zillow, the median home value in Cumberland is about $148,000, compared with a statewide median of $423,000. The average rental cost, per Zillow.com, is $1,050. Cumberland Meadows offers subsidized senior housing options, with reduced rent for low-income seniors.
For those who require a more supportive living environment, Allegany Health Nursing and Rehabilitation provides skilled nursing care and short-term rehabilitation. Assisted living and memory care options are also available throughout the Cumberland area. They include facilities such as The Commons at Cumberland and Kensington Evergreen.
The Economic Research Institute (ERI) notes that the cost of living in Cumberland is 22% below the state average and 18% below the national average. Transportation, health care, housing, and food are all lower in Cumberland than their national averages.
Senior Amenities and Health Care
Access to quality health care is an important factor for many seniors considering a move. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Western Maryland is an acute care facility in Cumberland that features cardiac care, a cancer center, neurosurgery, and robotic surgery programs.
Social support is another important part of daily life for many older adults. The Allegany County Human Resources Development Commission (HRDC) operates Cumberland's Senior Center. Counseling on health insurance, health education, social and educational activities, and meals are provided here to members aged 60 and up.
Cumberland also has public transportation options for seniors needing them. Alltrans, Allegany County's on-demand public transportation service, can be used by senior citizens and those with disabilities. A fixed-route bus system, serving Cumberland and the surrounding area, is also available.
Natural Beauty
Cumberland offers several ways for seniors to stay active. The C&O Canal Towpath is a dirt-and-stone trail that runs for 184.5 miles from Georgetown in Washington, DC, to Cumberland along the canal. It is ideal for walking, biking, and running.
The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is another long trail, running 150 miles from Cumberland to Pittsburgh. In Maryland, it follows 22 miles of the former Western Maryland Railroad route, with higher sections offering broad mountain views.
Constitution Park in the city of Cumberland includes pavilions, a picnic area, and a swimming pool, and hosts town events, including Fourth of July festivities. For those who would rather spend time on the water, the Potomac River is also easily accessible from Cumberland at various points, including the Gene Mason Complex Boat Access.
Nearby Towns to Explore
The mountain town of Frostburg, Maryland, just 10 miles west of Cumberland, is another Allegany County town to explore. Frostburg State University gives Maryland residents age 60 and over a tuition waiver. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad runs from Cumberland to Frostburg and offers mountain views along the route.
Romney, West Virginia, 28 miles to the south of Cumberland, is one of West Virginia's oldest towns, founded in 1762. This nearby historic town is home to the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, a relaxing ride through the countryside where passengers may spot eagles and bears. Romney’s downtown includes local shops like The Country Store on Main and eateries such as Italian Touch.
A Practical Retirement Option in Western Maryland
For seniors considering western Maryland, Cumberland stands out as a practical place to settle. Its proximity to West Virginia and Pennsylvania makes it a central location with easy access to nearby states. Its setting in a valley near the Appalachian Mountains and the Potomac River adds to its appeal. The town combines a pedestrian-friendly downtown, senior-oriented amenities, and a cost of living that remains lower than the state average.
