Benwood, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Benwood, WV Utility & Living Guide

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

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Benwood
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

American Electric Power
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Mountaineer Gas Company
💧 Water

$50/mo

Benwood Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Benwood is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The city has seen some revitalization efforts in recent years.

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 Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 6% + County 0.5%</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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

6/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

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

Benwood has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and some parks with playgrounds.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Oglebay Park
  • 🎯
    Benwood Pool
  • 🎯
    Marshall County Fairgrounds

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with some having undergone revitalization efforts. The area is relatively safe and has some parks and playgrounds.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Benwood has regulations in place regarding zoning, building permits, and property maintenance.

Benwood's economy is driven by industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. The city is also seeing growth in its downtown area, with new businesses and developments emerging.

Financial Tools

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📊 Benwood — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Benwood tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, while summer months see increased electricity usage for air conditioning. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during these peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 26031 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Benwood has some accessible sidewalks and parks, but could improve its overall stroller-friendliness with more consistent infrastructure and family-friendly amenities.

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