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Newbern, VA Utility & Living Guide

Newbern is an unincorporated community in Pulaski County, in the U.S. state of Virginia. From 1839 until the courthouse burned in 1892, Newbern was the county seat of Pulaski County.

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Total Utilities$248/mo

1BR Rent$900/mo

Sales Tax5.3%

COL Index94 (-6% below national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$280,000

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🌤️ Live Weather — Newbern

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Newbern

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💰 Budget Calculator

🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$128/mo

American Electric Power (AEP)

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$40/mo

Pulaski County Public Service Authority

🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Pulaski County Solid Waste

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$248/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$900/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1100/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
Median Home Price	$280,000
Property Tax Rate	0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo	$800

The housing market in Newbern is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, but prices are competitive. The area is popular with families and retirees.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

Transportation

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	5.3%
Property Tax Rate	0.85%
<p>State 4.3% + County 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

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism

Top Local Concerns

Economic development, infrastructure, education

🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but sidewalks and parks are stroller-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Claytor Lake State Park
🎯
New River Trail
🎯
Pulaski County Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and newer developments, with easy access to parks and outdoor recreation. The area is generally quiet and family-friendly.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Zoning laws and building codes are enforced by Pulaski County

Financial Tools

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📊 Newbern — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months see higher electric bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see lower bills. However, propane and firewood are sometimes used for heating, which can add to overall utility costs.