Forestdale, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Forestdale, MA Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Forestdale
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Sandwich Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Forestdale is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes. Prices have been steadily increasing due to the town’s desirable location and limited inventory. Rentals are also in high demand, particularly during the summer months.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0% (no additional local sales tax)</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with no local income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/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 including tourism, healthcare, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Forestdale has a limited public transportation system, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Sandwich Boardwalk
  • 🎯
    Shawme-Crowell State Forest
  • 🎯
    Cape Cod Children's Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods of Forestdale Village and Sandwich Village are popular with families, offering a mix of historic homes, parks, and community events. The area around the Sandwich Boardwalk is also a favorite among families, with its shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Forestdale has regulations in place to protect its natural resources, including wetland protection bylaws and zoning restrictions.

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📊 Forestdale — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Forestdale tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating costs, with an average increase of 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a slight decrease in utility costs, with more moderate temperatures and increased use of energy-efficient appliances.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02644 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes. However, there may be additional taxes or fees for specific services such as water and sewer.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score: 6, Forestdale has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's rural nature and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car.

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