Bedford, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Bedford, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Bedford, VA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty, with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a stunning backdrop

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Bedford
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Appalachian Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

Town of Bedford Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Town of Bedford Public Works
📶 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$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Bedford 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. Rentals are also available, but may be limited in certain areas.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

96

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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/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 in healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, education, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Bedford has limited public transportation, but the downtown area is relatively walkable and stroller-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bedford Museum
  • 🎯
    Peaks of Otter Winery
  • 🎯
    Smith Mountain Lake

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Centertown and Bedford Hills, offer a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making them popular with families. Other areas, like Forest, offer more rural settings and larger lots.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

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

Bedford's economy is driven by tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing, with a growing focus on downtown revitalization. The town is also investing in infrastructure and amenities to attract new residents and businesses.

Financial Tools

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📊 Bedford — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electric bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. However, the town's mild climate means that extreme temperature fluctuations are rare.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 24523 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Bedford's downtown area has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure could be improved

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