Cost of living in Kingwood
Kingwood, located in West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Understanding the cost of living in Kingwood is crucial for anyone considering moving to or residing in this area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $18.5 on average, with a range between $12 and $25.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $83.75, with prices ranging from $50 to $100.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $10, with a range between $10 and $11.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $7 to $10, imported beer $8 to $12, cappuccino $4 to $10, and Coke/Pepsi $2.49 to $4.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.06 and $1.32 per liter, averaging $1.17.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.52 and $5.51, with an average price of $4.13.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.49 to $5.5, averaging $3.42.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $4.41 to $8.82 per kg, while oranges range from $5.14 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $3.51 and $6.61 per kg, and lettuce costs $2.59 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.78 and $1 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.85, with a cost of $1.55 per km and $22 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child - Preschool costs range from $1950 to $2500 monthly, averaging $2112.5.
- International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child - International primary school fees range from $30000 to $43200 yearly, averaging $36600.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $70 and $188.08, averaging $142.16.
- Internet - Internet services range from $40 to $75, with an average cost of $57.58.
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"
Kingwood offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas. Dining out can be moderately priced, while grocery costs are reasonable.
Transportation costs are low, especially for gasoline, making it economical for those who drive frequently.
Housing and utility costs are manageable, with options available for various budgets. Families should consider the cost of private education when planning their finances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kingwood, WV, presents a balanced cost of living that can accommodate different lifestyles and budgets. The city offers affordable dining and transportation options, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to essential services.
Potential residents should weigh the costs of housing and education, particularly if private schooling is a priority. Overall, Kingwood provides a welcoming environment with a reasonable cost of living.