Belmont County is located in eastern Ohio along the West Virginia border and is part of the Upper Ohio Valley region. Established in 1801, it has a long history connected to early agriculture, coal mining, river transportation, and later, industrial development. The county seat, St. Clairsville, is one of the most prominent and fast-growing areas, featuring shopping centers, suburban neighborhoods, and access to Interstate 70. Other major towns include Bridgeport, Bellaire, Martins Ferry, Powhatan Point, and Shadyside. The county is known for its hilly landscapes, scenic river views, and mixture of historic river towns and peaceful rural communities. Martins Ferry is one of Ohio’s oldest European-settled towns, featuring older brick homes and narrow historic streets. St. Clairsville, by contrast, offers newer subdivisions, ranch homes, and contemporary two-story homes popular with commuters. Belmont County sits roughly 60 miles southwest of Pittsburgh, giving residents access to a major city while offering a quieter lifestyle at much more affordable prices. Home prices typically range from $160,000 to $260,000, with St. Clairsville neighborhoods often landing closer to the upper end or exceeding $300,000 for larger modern homes. Older river-town homes may be available for under $140,000, depending on condition.Building a home in Belmont County typically costs $150–$200 per sq ft, though hillside lots or river-view custom builds can push above $225 per sq ft. Rural acreage is relatively abundant, and many homeowners build in the countryside for privacy.