Onancock, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Onancock, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Onancock, VA offers a charming small-town experience with a strong sense of community and access to beautiful waterfront views.

Last updated: September 11, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
📷 Live Cameras — Onancock
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🌤️ Live Weather — Onancock
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Onancock's economy is driven by tourism, with a growing focus on eco-tourism and outdoor recreation. The town is also home to a number of small businesses and entrepreneurs, with a strong sense of community support.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Onancock
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Onancock Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Accomack County Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Onancock is relatively stable, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. Rentals are available but may be limited, and prices can vary depending on location and amenities. The town’s waterfront area is particularly popular, with higher-priced homes and condos.

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

$1200

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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and small business
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Onancock has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Onancock Wharf
  • 🎯
    Ker Place Museum
  • 🎯
    Cape Charles Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district and waterfront area are popular with families, offering a mix of old and new homes, and easy access to parks and amenities. The town's outskirts also offer more affordable options, with newer constructions and a more suburban feel.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Onancock has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and historic district preservation

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📊 Onancock — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Onancock can fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and higher water bills in the spring and summer due to lawn irrigation. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the town's mild climate.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 23417 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: Onancock has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's historic district can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to uneven pavement and limited elevator access in some buildings.

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