Rice, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Rice, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Rice, VA offers a tranquil and scenic experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$280,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Rice
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Rice
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Prince Edward County Public Utilities
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1100/mo
3 Bedrooms$1400/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Rice is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, although options may be limited. The area is attracting new residents due to its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

95

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 4.3% + County 1%</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

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, environmental conservation, public services
🚌 Transit for Families

Rice has limited public transit, but its rural setting and scenic roads make it accessible for walking and biking with strollers.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Twin Lakes State Park
  • 🎯
    Prince Edward Lake
  • 🎯
    Farmville Blue Ridge Trail

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Twin Lakes State Park and the town's central district are popular for families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and community amenities. Rural neighborhoods offer more space and a quieter environment.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Rice has zoning regulations to preserve its rural character and environmental ordinances to protect local waterways.

Rice, VA is experiencing growth in its local economy, driven by tourism and small businesses. The area's natural attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities are drawing new residents and visitors.

Financial Tools

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📊 Rice — 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 a slight increase in costs for heating. However, the overall cost remains relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 23966 has a property tax rate of 0.8% with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6 - Rice has decent sidewalk quality and access to parks, but its rural setting and limited public transit options reduce its overall stroller-friendliness score.

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