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Alma, WV Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Total Utilities$250/mo

1BR Rent$900/mo

Sales Tax6%

COL Index87 (-13% below national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$180,000

📷 Live Cameras — Alma

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🌤️ Live Weather — Alma

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Alma

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💰 Budget Calculator

🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Mon Power

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$40/mo

Alma Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Republic Services

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$900/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1600/mo
Median Home Price	$180,000
Property Tax Rate	0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo	$800

The housing market in Alma is relatively affordable, with a range of options from older homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The market is stable, with some growth potential.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

-13% below national average

Groceries

Transportation

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6%
Property Tax Rate	0.8%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

West Virginia has a progressive state income tax, with rates ranging from 3% to 6.5%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Red

Business Momentum

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

Top Local Concerns

Economic development, infrastructure, education

🚌 Transit for Families

Alma has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
New River Gorge Bridge
🎯
Hawks Nest State Park
🎯
Kanawha River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods near the town center and the New River are popular for families, with easy access to parks, schools, and community events. The area around the Alma Elementary School is also a desirable location.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Alma has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection

Financial Tools

Calculators

Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city

Planning Tools

Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side

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📊 Alma — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Alma fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in summer due to air conditioning and higher water bills in spring due to lawn care. In winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the mild climate.