Big Stone Gap, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Big Stone Gap, VA Utility & Living Guide

Big Stone Gap is a town in Wise County, Virginia, United States. The town was economically centered around the coal industry for much of its early development. The population was 5,254 at the 2020 census.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$800/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index87 (-13% below national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$180,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Big Stone Gap
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Big Stone Gap
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

American Electric Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

Town of Big Stone Gap Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$800/mo
2 Bedrooms$1000/mo
3 Bedrooms$1300/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Big Stone Gap is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, although options may be limited. The town’s small size and natural beauty make it an attractive option for those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle.

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

$900

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
8/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

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

Big Stone Gap has limited public transportation options, but its downtown area is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible shops and restaurants

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Breaks Interstate Park
  • 🎯
    Natural Tunnel State Park
  • 🎯
    Big Stone Gap Farmers Market

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Woodland Hills and Oakwood, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and community amenities. These areas offer a range of housing options, from historic homes to new constructions.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Big Stone Gap has regulations in place to preserve its historic downtown area and protect the environment

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📊 Big Stone Gap — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Big Stone Gap tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. However, the town's mild climate means that these fluctuations are relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24219 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Big Stone Gap has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and some infrastructure challenges, making it moderately stroller-friendly

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