Colonial Heights, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Colonial Heights, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Colonial Heights, VA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities just outside of Richmond

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
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Colonial Heights
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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 Heights Public Utilities
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Colonial Heights Public Works
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.04%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Colonial Heights is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The city has seen some new development in recent years, but prices remain competitive. Renters can find a range of options, from apartments to single-family homes

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

96

Healthcare

101

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate1.04%
<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

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and government
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, economic development
🚌 Transit for Families

The city has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and some bike lanes

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Pocahontas State Park
  • 🎯
    Swift Creek Reservoir
  • 🎯
    Colonial Heights Public Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

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

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents are subject to city ordinances regarding zoning, noise, and property maintenance

Colonial Heights is seeing growth in its downtown area, with new businesses and restaurants opening. The city's proximity to Richmond and Fort Lee makes it an attractive option for commuters

Financial Tools

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📊 Colonial Heights — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during these peak seasons

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The city's property tax rate is 1.04%, with no local surtaxes. ZIP code 23834 has a slightly higher tax rate due to a special district assessment

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and some bike lanes, but limited public transportation options and some areas with heavy traffic

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