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Port Royal, VA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Port Royal, VA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities in a small town setting

Last updated: September 16, 2026

Total Utilities$280/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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🌤️ Live Weather — Port Royal

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Port Royal is experiencing growth in its tourism industry, driven by its historic significance and natural beauty. New businesses are opening to cater to visitors, creating opportunities for local employment.

📍 Live Local News & Briefing

⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Port Royal

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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

Caroline County Public Utilities

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Caroline County Waste Management

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1900/mo
Median Home Price	$280,000
Property Tax Rate	0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo	$900

The housing market in Port Royal is relatively affordable, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. Rentals are limited, but available. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	5.3%
Property Tax Rate	0.85%
<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

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 tourism, healthcare, and education

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, public safety, economic development

🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but sidewalks and parks are stroller-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Port Royal Museum
🎯
Belle Grove Plantation
🎯
Rappahannock River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and safe environment for families, with easy access to parks and community events. The nearby town of Bowling Green also offers affordable housing options.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Zoning laws and historic district regulations are in place to preserve the town’s character

Financial Tools

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📊 Port Royal — 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 a slight increase in heating costs. However, the town's mild climate keeps utility costs relatively stable throughout the year.