Essex, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Essex, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Essex, MA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities in a small town setting

Last updated: October 8, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$430,000
📷 Live Cameras — Essex
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🌤️ Live Weather — Essex
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The current financial trend in Essex is a growing demand for housing and commercial development, driven by the town's proximity to Boston and its desirable quality of life. However, this growth also poses challenges for preserving the town's historic character and managing increasing costs of living.
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Essex Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Essex is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and preservation efforts. Home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 6.25% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, hospitality, and small business
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, parking, and preserving historic character
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has limited public transit options, but the commuter rail station provides access to Boston and other nearby cities

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Cogswell's Grant
  • 🎯
    Essex Riverwalk
  • 🎯
    Crane Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and modern amenities, making them popular with families. The town's small size and strong sense of community also make it an attractive option for those looking for a close-knit neighborhood.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Residents are subject to local zoning regulations and historic district preservation rules

Financial Tools

Calculators
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📊 Essex — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Essex tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average monthly gas bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility costs, with average monthly electric bills decreasing by 10-15% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01929 has a property tax millage rate of 12.34, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a relatively flat terrain, but limited elevator access in some older buildings and transit stations

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