Rachel, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Rachel, 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$280/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Rachel
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Mon Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Rachel Public Service District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/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$900

The housing market in Rachel 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 area is seeing slow and steady growth.

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

$900

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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/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 growth, infrastructure development, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit options are limited, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Prickett's Fort State Park
  • 🎯
    Marion County Fairgrounds
  • 🎯
    Fairmont City Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around downtown Rachel is popular for families, with its proximity to schools and community amenities. Other desirable neighborhoods include those near the Marion County parks and recreation areas.

Household Budget Calculator

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

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📊 Rachel — 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 may require more expensive heating solutions. Overall, utility costs in Rachel remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 26587 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to limited sidewalk infrastructure and lack of dedicated bike lanes, but with some accessible parks and community spaces

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