Ottawa, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Ottawa, WV Utility & Living Guide

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada. It is located in the southeastern portion of the province of Ontario, at the confluence of the Ottawa River and the Rideau River. Ottawa borders Gatineau, Quebec, and forms the core of the Ottawa–Gatineau census metropolitan area (CMA) and the National Capital R

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Ottawa
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Ottawa
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

American Electric Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

Ottawa Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Ottawa Sanitation Department
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Ottawa is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, though options may be limited. Overall, the market is stable and suitable for first-time buyers or retirees.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

96

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 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

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

5.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
-2% (declining)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Low with key industries in retail and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Job creation, infrastructure maintenance, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but sidewalks and parks are generally stroller-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Ottawa City Park
  • 🎯
    Putnam County Library
  • 🎯
    Kanawha River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and modern amenities, making them suitable for families. The area around Ottawa City Park is particularly popular for its green spaces and community events.

Household Budget Calculator

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

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📊 Ottawa — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months see higher electric bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months require more heating, resulting in slightly higher gas bills for those with gas-powered heating systems. However, since most homes in Ottawa rely on electric heating, the fluctuation is more pronounced in electric bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 25177 has a property tax millage rate of 18.5 mills, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6 - Ottawa has decent sidewalks and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure could be improved with more dedicated bike lanes and playgrounds.

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