Cape Charles, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Cape Charles, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Cape Charles, VA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and coastal beauty, making it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Cape Charles
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📷 Live Cameras — Cape Charles
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Cape Charles
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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

Town of Cape Charles
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Cape Charles is characterized by a mix of older homes and new constructions, with a growing demand for vacation rentals and second homes. The town’s limited inventory and high demand have driven up prices in recent years. However, there are still affordable options available for buyers and renters

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

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

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/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 tourism, hospitality, and construction
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but its compact size and walkability make it accessible for families with strollers

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Cape Charles Beach
  • 🎯
    Kiptopeke State Park
  • 🎯
    Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The Bay Creek neighborhood is also popular for its newer homes and amenities

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The town has strict zoning laws and building codes to preserve its historic character and natural environment

Cape Charles is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its growing popularity as a tourist destination and its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay. However, this growth also poses challenges for the town's infrastructure and affordability

Financial Tools

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📊 Cape Charles — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Cape Charles tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the town's mild climate

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 23310 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a compact downtown area, but limited elevator access in some older buildings

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