Bristol, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Bristol, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Bristol, VA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor recreation opportunities.

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
🌤️ Live Weather — Bristol
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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.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Bristol has regulations in place to preserve its historic downtown area and protect the environment.

Bristol's economy is growing, driven by its strategic location and investments in downtown revitalization. However, the city still faces challenges related to poverty and limited job opportunities.

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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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