Big Island, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Big Island, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Big Island, VA offers a peaceful and serene environment with easy access to outdoor recreational activities

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1000/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Big Island
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📷 Live Cameras — Big Island
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Big Island
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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

Bedford County Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Bedford County Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1000/mo
2 Bedrooms$1300/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Big Island is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The area is popular for those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle.

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

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate0.85%
<p>State 4.3% + County 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

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in agriculture, tourism, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Job opportunities, infrastructure development, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transportation is limited in Big Island, but the area is relatively flat and walkable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

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

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Smith Mountain Lake is popular for families, with access to outdoor recreational activities and scenic views. Other neighborhoods, such as those in the town of Bedford, offer a more urban feel with shops and restaurants.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Zoning laws and building permits are regulated by Bedford County

The current financial trend in Big Island is a growing demand for outdoor recreational activities, driving an increase in tourism-related businesses. However, the area's rural nature and limited job opportunities may impact long-term economic growth.

Financial Tools

Calculators
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📊 Big Island — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

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

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24526 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: while sidewalks and crosswalks are available in some areas, the rural nature of Big Island means that many roads lack pedestrian infrastructure, and public transportation is limited

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