Dolphin, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Dolphin, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Dolphin, VA offers a tranquil and scenic experience with a strong sense of community in a small town setting

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/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 — Dolphin
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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

Dolphin Water Department
🗑️ 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$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Dolphin is relatively stable with a mix of older and newer homes, with some new developments on the outskirts of town. Rentals are mostly single-family homes and apartments. The town has a strong sense of community with many residents owning their homes.

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 Rate1.1%
<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

$900/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 healthcare, education, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, economic development
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but sidewalks and crosswalks are generally well-maintained, making it relatively easy to get around with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dolphin Park
  • 🎯
    Dolphin Library
  • 🎯
    Virginia Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods are popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong sense of community. The town's parks and recreational facilities are also a major draw for families.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Zoning laws and building codes are in place to preserve the town’s character and ensure public safety

Dolphin is seeing a trend of young families moving to the area, attracted by the town's small-town charm and relatively low cost of living. However, the town's economy is heavily reliant on a few major employers, which can make the job market somewhat volatile.

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📊 Dolphin — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months see a spike in electricity costs due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see a moderate increase in heating costs. However, the town's mild climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 23417 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain making it easy to navigate with a stroller, although some areas may lack elevator access in older buildings

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