Arlington, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Arlington, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Arlington, VA offers a unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Arlington
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Washington Gas
💧 Water

$50/mo

Arlington County Water Utility
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Arlington County Department of Environmental Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate0.95%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Arlington’s housing market is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, apartments, and condos. The area is popular with young professionals and families, driving up demand and prices. However, the county offers various programs to support affordable housing.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

114

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.95%
<p>State 4.3% + County 1% + City 0.7%</p>

Virginia has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Arlington County also has a local income tax, but it’s relatively low.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description
Business Momentum
High with key industries in tech, defense, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordability, public transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

Arlington has a well-developed public transportation system, including the Metrorail and bus networks, which are relatively stroller-friendly. However, some areas may require more walking or transferring.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Arlington National Cemetery
  • 🎯
    Theodore Roosevelt Island
  • 🎯
    Potomac Riverboat Company

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Arlington include Ballston, Clarendon, and Lyon Village, which offer a mix of parks, schools, and community amenities. These areas are also relatively safe and have a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Arlington has strict zoning laws and regulations to maintain its character and manage growth. Residents should be aware of rules regarding parking, noise, and waste management.

Arlington's economy is driven by the tech and defense industries, with major companies like Amazon and Lockheed Martin having a presence in the area. The county is also investing in sustainable energy and transportation initiatives.

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📊 Arlington — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Arlington, summer months bring higher electricity costs due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased gas and heating costs. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during these peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 0.8 to 1.1%, with some areas having additional local surtaxes, such as the 0.1% tax in the 22201 ZIP code

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Arlington's sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many parks and public spaces are accessible with strollers. However, some areas may have limited elevator access in transit or uneven pavement, which can make navigation more challenging.

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