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Tier 3 Location

Foster, WV Utility & Living Guide

Foster may refer to:

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

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Foster

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💰 Budget Calculator

🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Appalachian Power

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$40/mo

Boone-Raleigh Public Service District

🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Boone County Solid Waste

📶 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	0.65%
Avg Childcare/mo	$800

The housing market in Foster is relatively affordable, with a range of options from older homes to newer constructions. Rentals are also available, though options may be limited. Overall, the market is stable with moderate growth.

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	0.65%
<p>State 6% + County 0%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

5.5/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Red

Business Momentum

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

Top Local Concerns

Economic development, infrastructure, public health

🚌 Transit for Families

Foster has limited public transportation, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Kanawha State Forest
🎯
Charleston Civic Center
🎯
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The areas around Foster Creek and the town center are considered desirable for families due to their proximity to schools and community amenities. However, options are limited, and the area is generally rural.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Regulations in Foster are generally in line with state and federal guidelines, with a focus on environmental and zoning ordinances

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
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📊 Foster — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Foster tend to fluctuate with the seasons, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas bills in the winter for heating, though gas is not commonly used. Residents can expect to pay more for utilities during these peak seasons.