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Move Outside the Predictable

Where innovative businesses, stunning vistas and historic downtowns converge. Where the Appalachian Mountains rise over green valleys, but are still only two hours from Washington D.C., Baltimore and Pittsburgh. Maybe it's time to make the move outside to Allegany County, Maryland.

Make Allegany County Home

Improve Your Quality of Life

Find an abundance of outdoor recreation, live entertainment and walkable urban cores.

Affordability and livability are the hallmarks of Allegany County, situated in the heart of the Western Maryland Panhandle. Conveniently equidistant between Pittsburgh, Washington D.C. and Baltimore, Allegany County attracts visitors and new residents with its lower cost of living and higher quality of life. Employers are also impressed by our dynamic market and robust workforce options. From craft breweries to live music festivals, from fine dining to a burgeoning food truck scene, Allegany County offers what you would expect from larger markets, all framed by stunning mountain views and the Potomac River. Learn how to make Allegany County home for your family, business expansion, or both.

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Invest Here

Learn more about some of the key industries in Allegany County. Find qualifying incentives and search for available commercial and industrial properties.

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Work Here

Find your next career with our dedicated Job Portal, while learning more about employers and workforce development opportunities in our region.

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Live Here

Discover local neighborhoods and find out about life in Allegany County, including healthcare, education and other community resources.

“We are here for the long haul and we are creating local jobs."

"We are very bullish on everything we see here.”

- Jim Abdo, president and CEO of Abdo Development, based in Washington D.C., on his company's recent multimillion dollar investment in redeveloping property in Cumberland, Maryland.

Latest Economic News and Events

Three employees of the Baltimore Street Grill in Cumberland pose behind the restaurant's bar.

Hooley Pub Crawl Brings Business to Downtown Cumberland

In its 25th year, the Hooley Pub Crawl draws crowds from Allegany County and beyond to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with food, drink, and entertainment. The event invites visitors to patronize 22 participating establishments in downtown, north, and south Cumberland and explore the region's attractions. The Pub Crawl begins on Saturday, March 16th, at 12:00 pm and continues through 1:00 am the next day. 

“This has been a long-standing tradition in Downtown Cumberland,” shares Melinda Kelleher, Executive Director of the Downtown Development Commission, which is coordinating and promoting the event. “The Hooley Pub Crawl is always well attended and important for downtown foot traffic. This year is especially important since construction has limited pedestrians to the area.” She continues, “We’re encouraging everyone to come downtown, have a great time, and support the local businesses.” 

Local Business
Events
Tourism
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UMCES Appalachian Lab: Allegany County’s Environmental Science Epicenter

Since its establishment in 1962 in Allegany County the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) Appalachian Laboratory has played a crucial role in researching the natural resources of Appalachia. This institution contributes significantly to economic development in the region through its research activities, promotion of STEM careers, community engagement, and collaboration with local entities and businesses. 

UMCES, Maryland’s graduate research university for the environment, operates four laboratories across Maryland with a mission to study, manage, and disseminate knowledge on natural resources, prepare the next generation of scientists, engage with communities, and address environmental challenges. The Appalachian Lab is the only facility in its network focusing on freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems.  

Over 50 staff members at the lab participate in numerous projects aimed at raising public awareness about environmental science, encompassing challenges, issues, and solutions. Researchers cover a broad spectrum of environmental fields, including conservation, restoration, and the study of terrestrial and aquatic species. 

Circular Economy
Local Business
News
Sustainability
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FSU and UMCES: Partners in Sustainability Education

Frostburg State University (FSU) and the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) have joined forces to address the pressing need for a skilled workforce in environmental sustainability. This collaboration has led to the creation of a new Master in Environmental Management (MEM) in Sustainability degree option. The significance of this initiative goes beyond academia, as it plays a vital role in Allegany County's growth within the environmental sustainability sector. 

The program was established in response to the increasing demand for professionals specializing in environmental sustainability. While there are many environmental scientists, there is a distinct need for individuals who can contribute to areas such as environmental policy, corporate environmental management, and nonprofit sustainability initiatives, according to Dr. Benjamin Norris, MEM in Sustainability Program Coordinator and FSU Professor.  

“There is a shortage of people who want to work in environmental policy, or who want to work for corporations to manage and reduce its environmental footprint, or want to work for a nonprofit organization that wants to promote sustainability,” says Norris. “We also want to help increase the number of women and people of color going into these careers.” 

Sustainability

Job Board

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Search for jobs in Allegany County with our Job Board. Local employers can submit open positions in just a few clicks, no account is required.

Browse Available Jobs

Site Selector Portal

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Use our Site Selector Portal to browse available commercial and industrial buildings and acreage and plan your expansion. Property owners can also submit available properties directly to the portal.

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Get to Know Allegany County Economic and Community Development

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