Gretna, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Gretna, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Gretna, VA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and a growing community of 5,000 residents.

Last updated: September 20, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Gretna
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Gretna is seeing an uptick in new businesses and residents, driven by its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. However, the town still faces challenges related to infrastructure and economic development.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Gretna
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Pittsylvania County Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Pittsylvania County Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Gretna is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The town has seen some growth in recent years, with new developments and renovations underway. However, the overall pace of the market remains moderate.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate0.85%
<p>State 4.3% + Local 1%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, infrastructure, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Gretna has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dan River
  • 🎯
    Gretna Park
  • 🎯
    Smith Mountain Lake

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation. The nearby lake and river areas also offer scenic views and outdoor activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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📊 Gretna — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity costs due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. However, the overall cost of utilities in Gretna remains relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24557 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Gretna has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and family infrastructure, making it somewhat stroller-friendly but with room for improvement

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