Colonial Beach, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Colonial Beach, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Colonial Beach offers a unique blend of small-town charm and waterfront activities for its 5,000 residents

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Colonial Beach
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Colonial Beach
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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

Colonial Beach Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Colonial Beach Public Works
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Colonial Beach is characterized by a mix of older and newer homes, with many waterfront properties and a growing demand for vacation rentals. The median home price has been steadily increasing over the past few years. However, the town still offers relatively affordable housing options compared to other coastal areas in Virginia.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

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
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, hospitality, and water sports
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has limited public transportation options, but its compact downtown area and waterfront parks are easily accessible on foot or by bike

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Colonial Beach Pier
  • 🎯
    Colonial Beach Playground
  • 🎯
    Westmoreland State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and newer developments, with easy access to the beach and town amenities. The nearby neighborhoods of Oak Grove and Monroe Bay also offer affordable housing options and a more suburban feel.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents are subject to zoning ordinances, building codes, and environmental regulations to protect the town’s natural resources and historic character

Colonial Beach is experiencing a surge in tourism and new businesses, driven by its growing reputation as a water sports destination and its proximity to Washington D.C. However, this growth also poses challenges for the town's infrastructure and affordability.

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📊 Colonial Beach — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Colonial Beach tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in costs. However, the town's mild climate means that heating costs are generally lower than in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 22443 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Colonial Beach has well-maintained sidewalks and easy access to parks and the beach, making it a great place for families with strollers. However, the town's limited public transportation options and lack of elevator access in some buildings may pose challenges for families with mobility needs.

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