Madison, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Madison, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Madison, VA offers a unique blend of rural charm and convenient access to urban amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Last updated: September 5, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
📷 Live Cameras — Madison
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🌤️ Live Weather — Madison
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The current financial trends in Madison are driven by a growing tourism industry, with visitors drawn to the area's natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, the local economy is also vulnerable to fluctuations in the agricultural sector, which is a significant employer in the area.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Madison
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Madison County Public Service Authority
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Madison County Public Service Authority
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Madison is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The area is popular with families and retirees, and prices tend to be lower than in nearby urban areas. However, the market can be competitive, especially for homes in desirable locations.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

96

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

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

Virginia has a progressive state income tax, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Madison County also has a local income tax of 1%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including agriculture, tourism, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, rural broadband access
🚌 Transit for Families

Madison has a limited public transportation system, but the area is relatively flat and easy to navigate on foot or by bike, making it accessible for families with strollers.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Shenandoah National Park
  • 🎯
    Madison County Recreation Center
  • 🎯
    Graves Mountain Farm

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town of Madison has a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants, while the surrounding countryside offers a range of rural neighborhoods with larger lots and a more peaceful atmosphere. The nearby town of Stanardsville also has a number of family-friendly neighborhoods with good schools and community amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Madison County has zoning regulations in place to protect the area’s rural character, and there are also rules governing noise levels, signage, and other aspects of daily life.

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📊 Madison — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Madison tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the area's mild climate, but can still increase by 10-20% from December to February.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 22727 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes. However, there may be additional taxes or fees for specific services such as water or sewer.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the area's relatively flat terrain and good sidewalk infrastructure, but limited public transportation options and some rural areas with no sidewalks or crosswalks.

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