Fairmont, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Fairmont, WV Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$270/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax7%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Fairmont
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Fairmont
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

Mon Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Fairmont Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$270/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1600/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Fairmont is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, including apartments and houses. However, the market can be competitive, especially for families and young professionals.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

96

Transportation

88

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 6% + County 0.5% + City 0.5%</p>

West Virginia has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 3% to 6.5%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

6/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, infrastructure, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Fairmont has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Prickett's Fort State Park
  • 🎯
    Fairmont State University
  • 🎯
    Marion County Fairgrounds

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Fairmont include Downtown, East Side, and White Hall, which offer a range of housing options, parks, and community amenities. These areas are also close to schools, shops, and restaurants.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Fairmont has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and business licenses

Financial Tools

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📊 Fairmont — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Fairmont tend to be higher in the winter due to heating, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, cooling costs are relatively low, with average bills decreasing by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 26554 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Fairmont has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure is still developing

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