Monroe, VA Utility & Living Guide

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Monroe, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Monroe, VA offers a tranquil small-town experience with easy access to natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

Last updated: September 11, 2026
Total Utilities$248/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax5.3%
COL Index98 (-2% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
📷 Live Cameras — Monroe
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🌤️ Live Weather — Monroe
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Monroe's economy is driven by tourism and small businesses, with a growing focus on sustainable agriculture and outdoor recreation. The town is investing in infrastructure improvements to support its growing population.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Monroe
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$128/mo

Dominion Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Amherst County Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Amherst County Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$248/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Monroe is characterized by a mix of old and new homes, with a growing demand for rentals. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years. The town has a relatively low inventory of homes for sale, which can drive up prices.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

98

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-2% below national average

Groceries

95

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$900

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
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Monroe has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Monroe Lake
  • 🎯
    Amherst County Recreation Center
  • 🎯
    Sweet Briar College

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation. The nearby town of Amherst has a strong sense of community and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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📊 Monroe — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased heating costs. However, the town's mild climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24574 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Monroe has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and some gaps in family infrastructure

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