Stafford, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Stafford, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Stafford, VA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals alike.

Last updated: September 18, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1300/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
📷 Live Cameras — Stafford
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🌤️ Live Weather — Stafford
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Stafford's economy is driven by a mix of government contracting, technology, and healthcare industries, with a growing trend towards remote work and entrepreneurship. The area is also seeing an increase in new businesses and developments, particularly in the downtown area.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Stafford
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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

Stafford County Utilities
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1300/mo
2 Bedrooms$1700/mo
3 Bedrooms$2300/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Stafford is competitive, with a mix of new developments and established neighborhoods. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years. Renters can expect to find a range of options, from apartments to single-family homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<p>State 4.3% + Local 1%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and government contracting
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, education, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Stafford has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible buses and sidewalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Alum Spring Park
  • 🎯
    Stafford County Museum
  • 🎯
    Lake Mooney

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Stafford include Hampton Oaks, Windsor Forest, and Stafford Lakes, which offer a range of amenities, including parks, playgrounds, and community events. These neighborhoods are also close to top-rated schools and have a strong sense of community.

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📊 Stafford — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Stafford tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low, with average natural gas bills ranging from $20 to $50 per month.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 22554 has a property tax millage rate of 0.84%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Stafford has a mix of stroller-friendly and non-stroller-friendly areas, with some sidewalks and parks being well-maintained, while others may be lacking in accessibility features such as ramps and elevators.

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