Gloucester, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Gloucester, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Gloucester, MA offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rich maritime history, with a strong sense of community and stunning natural beauty.

Last updated: October 6, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$430,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Gloucester
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Gloucester's economy is experiencing growth, driven by tourism and the maritime industry, with a focus on sustainable development and innovation. The city is also investing in infrastructure and community projects to enhance the quality of life for residents.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Gloucester
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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

City of Gloucester Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Gloucester Department of Public Works
📶 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 Gloucester is competitive, with a mix of historic homes, apartments, and new constructions. The city has a strong demand for rentals, especially during the summer months. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + None + Local 1.05%</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
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, fishing, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and environmental sustainability
🚌 Transit for Families

Gloucester has a walkable downtown area and a public transportation system, including buses, but stroller-friendly infrastructure is limited in some areas

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center
  • 🎯
    Cape Ann Museum
  • 🎯
    Wingaersheek Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area, Annisquam, and Eastern Point are popular neighborhoods for families, offering a mix of historic homes, parks, and access to the waterfront. These areas are also close to schools, shops, and community amenities.

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📊 Gloucester — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Gloucester fluctuate significantly with the seasons, with higher electricity and gas bills during the winter months due to heating, and increased water usage during the summer. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The city of Gloucester has a property tax rate of 1.23%, with a median home value of $430,000. There are no local surtaxes, but the state imposes a 5.2% income tax rate.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Gloucester has some stroller-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks and parks, but there are areas with limited accessibility, such as some historic districts and waterfront areas with uneven pavement

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