Dolphin, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Dolphin, VA Utility & Living Guide

A dolphin is any one of the 40 extant species of aquatic mammal from the cetacean families Delphinidae, Platanistidae, Iniidae, Pontoporiidae, and the probably extinct Lipotidae. All these families belong to the parvorder Odontoceti, i.e., toothed whales, which also include the closely related famil

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.

📰 Live Local News

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

Financial Tools

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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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