Ferrum, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Ferrum, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Ferrum, VA offers a tranquil small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: September 24, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$280,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Ferrum
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Ferrum's economy is driven by education, healthcare, and tourism, with a growing focus on outdoor recreation and sustainable industries. The town is also exploring ways to support local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Ferrum
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

American Electric Power
🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Ferrum Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Franklin County Public Works
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Ferrum is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. Rentals are also available, although options may be limited. The town’s small size and rural setting contribute to its charm and lower cost of living.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

94

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-6% below national average

Groceries

95

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.3%
Property Tax Rate0.85%
<p>State 4.3% + County 1%</p>

Virginia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/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 education, healthcare, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Economic growth, infrastructure development, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Ferrum has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Ferrum College
  • 🎯
    Ferrum Lake
  • 🎯
    Blue Ridge Parkway

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor recreation. The Ferrum College campus is also a popular area for families, with its beautiful grounds and community events.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Ferrum has zoning ordinances and building codes in place to preserve its small-town character and ensure public safety

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📊 Ferrum — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Ferrum tend to be higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% during the peak summer months. In contrast, winter utility bills are relatively lower, with some residents using propane or wood heat to supplement their electric heating systems.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24088 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Ferrum has some sidewalks and crosswalks, but the town's rural setting and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car. However, the town's compact downtown area and nearby parks are relatively stroller-friendly.

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