Cost of living in Elkins
Elkins, located in the heart of West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. Understanding the cost of living in Elkins is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to this picturesque city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the various expenses you can expect, from dining and groceries to transportation and housing, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $16.5 on average, with a range between $15 and $40.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $65, with prices ranging from $60 to $90.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $8, with a consistent price across the board.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $6 to $7, imported beer $8 to $9, cappuccino $4 to $6, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $2.5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.92 and $1.58 per liter, averaging $1.16.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.2 and $5.51, with an average price of $3.97.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2 to $6.99, averaging $4.33.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $5.51 per kg, while oranges range from $3.5 to $4.41 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.32 and $3 per kg, and lettuce costs $3 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.82 and $1.05 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $5, with a cost of $3 per km and $35 per hour of waiting.
- Car Purchase - A new Volkswagen Golf costs $23,000, while a Toyota Corolla is priced between $24,000 and $27,000.
Housing Costs
- Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child - The cost for private preschool is between $2,000 and $2,800 monthly, averaging $2,366.67.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $200 and $300, averaging $250.
- Internet - Internet services range from $80 to $90, with an average cost of $83.8.
- Mobile Phone Plan - A mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data costs between $20 and $100, averaging $39.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Elkins offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities, with reasonable prices for dining and groceries.
Housing and utility costs are moderate, making it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a balance between cost and quality of life.
Transportation costs are manageable, especially for those who own a vehicle, with competitive fuel prices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Elkins, WV, presents a cost-effective living environment with its affordable dining, grocery, and utility expenses.
The city's moderate housing costs and manageable transportation expenses make it a viable option for those looking to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high costs associated with urban living.
Whether you're planning to move or simply evaluating your current expenses, understanding the cost of living in Elkins can help you make informed financial decisions.