Clifton, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Clifton, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Clifton, VA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to Washington D.C.

Last updated: October 6, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$540,000
📷 Live Cameras — Clifton
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🌤️ Live Weather — Clifton
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The current financial trend in Clifton is a growing demand for luxury homes and a thriving local business scene. However, this growth also brings concerns about affordability and traffic.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Clifton
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Washington Gas
💧 Water

$50/mo

Fairfax County Water Authority
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

American Disposal Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2000/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$540,000
Property Tax Rate1.14%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Clifton is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes. The area is known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

95

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.14%
<p>State 4.3% + County 1% + City 0.7%</p>

Virginia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in technology, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, school funding, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Clifton is limited, but the area is relatively stroller-friendly with wide sidewalks and accessible parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bull Run Regional Park
  • 🎯
    Clifton Town Park
  • 🎯
    Fairfax County Public Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district, Clifton Heights, and the areas around the town park are popular with families. These neighborhoods offer a mix of old and new homes, with easy access to local amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Clifton based on your household profile.

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📊 Clifton — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Clifton tend to be higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% during the peak summer months. In the winter, natural gas bills may increase by 10-20% due to heating usage.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20124 has a property tax millage rate of 1.14, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but limited elevator access in some older buildings

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