Townsend, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Townsend, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Townsend, VA offers a serene and peaceful environment with easy access to outdoor activities and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: June 26, 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
🌤️ Live Weather — Townsend
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Townsend
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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

Newport News Waterworks
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

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 Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Townsend is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The area is popular with families and retirees, and prices are generally lower than in nearby cities. However, the market can be competitive, especially for homes in desirable neighborhoods.

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

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<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

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    York River State Park
  • 🎯
    Colonial National Historical Park
  • 🎯
    Williamsburg Zoo

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Townsend are those with easy access to parks and outdoor recreation, such as the areas around York River State Park and the town's historic district. These neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, and are generally quiet and safe.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The town has regulations in place to protect its natural resources and historic character, including zoning ordinances and environmental protections.

The current financial trends in Townsend are driven by a growing tourism industry and a strong demand for outdoor recreation. The town is also seeing an increase in remote workers and entrepreneurs, who are attracted to its natural beauty and relaxed pace of life.

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📊 Townsend — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Townsend tend to be higher in the summer months, when air conditioning is needed to cool homes. In the winter, costs are lower, but may still be affected by heating needs, especially for homes with electric heat.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 23181 has a property tax millage rate of 0.84, and there are no local surtaxes specific to Townsend county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to get around with a stroller.

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