Smithville, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Smithville, 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$250/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index94 (-6% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Smithville
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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

$40/mo

Town of Smithville Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Republic Services
📶 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$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.8%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Smithville 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 location contribute to its affordable housing costs.

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 Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.8%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</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

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

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

Smithville has limited public transportation, but the town's small size makes it walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kanawha State Forest
  • 🎯
    Cedar Creek State Park
  • 🎯
    Smithville Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and new constructions, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor recreation. Families may also consider the nearby town of Elizabeth for its schools and community events.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Zoning laws and building permits are regulated by the Town of Smithville, and residents are required to obtain permits for certain projects

Financial Tools

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📊 Smithville — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Smithville tend to be higher in the winter due to heating needs, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility costs, with average electric bills decreasing by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 26178 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6 - Smithville's sidewalks and crosswalks are limited, but the town's small size and low traffic make it relatively easy to navigate with a stroller, and many local parks and outdoor spaces are accessible and family-friendly

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