Bristol, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Bristol, VA Utility & Living Guide

Bristol is a city and ceremonial county in South West England. It is located on the River Avon, and bordered by Gloucestershire to the north and Somerset to the south with a short coastline on the Bristol Channel to the west. The county includes the majority of the Bristol conurbation, however, the

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$248/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$230,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Bristol
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$128/mo

Bristol Virginia Utilities
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Bristol Virginia Utilities
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$248/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1500/mo
Median Home Price$230,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Bristol is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. However, the market can be competitive, especially for homes in desirable neighborhoods. Renters can expect to find a variety of apartments and houses for rent.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

95

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate0.85%
<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

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

6/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, public safety, education
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bristol Caverns
  • 🎯
    Steele Creek Park
  • 🎯
    Bristol Motor Speedway

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Bristol include Downtown Bristol, which offers a range of amenities and activities, and the Oakwood Forest neighborhood, which has a strong sense of community. Other popular neighborhoods include Avoca and Euclid.

Household Budget Calculator

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

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📊 Bristol — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bristol tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 15-20%. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the mild climate.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The property tax millage rate in Bristol is 0.85%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Bristol has relatively good sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit can be limited, and family infrastructure is still developing.

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