Alma, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Alma, WV Utility & Living Guide

Living in Alma, WV offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty, with the New River Gorge nearby.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index87 (-13% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Alma
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Mon Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Alma Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1600/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Alma is relatively affordable, with a range of options from older homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The market is stable, with some growth potential.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

87

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-13% below national average

Groceries

95

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 state income tax, with rates ranging from 3% to 6.5%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

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

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    New River Gorge Bridge
  • 🎯
    Hawks Nest State Park
  • 🎯
    Kanawha River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods near the town center and the New River are popular for families, with easy access to parks, schools, and community events. The area around the Alma Elementary School is also a desirable location.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Alma has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection

The current financial trend in Alma is a growing interest in outdoor tourism, with new businesses and investments in the area. However, the town still faces challenges related to limited job opportunities and brain drain.

Financial Tools

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📊 Alma — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Alma fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in summer due to air conditioning and higher water bills in spring due to lawn care. In winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the mild climate.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 25003 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Alma has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure is still developing

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