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Housatonic, 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$1100/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$340,000

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Housatonic

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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

Housatonic Water District

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1900/mo
Median Home Price	$340,000
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Housatonic is characterized by a mix of old and new homes, with a range of prices to suit different budgets. The area is popular with families and retirees, and there is a strong sense of community. However, the market can be competitive, especially for affordable options.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
<p>State 5.2% + No county tax + Local 1.05% (average)</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

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple, with a mix of liberal and conservative views

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and education

Top Local Concerns

Affordability, traffic, and environmental conservation

🚌 Transit for Families

Housatonic has a limited public transportation system, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
October Mountain State Forest
🎯
Pittsfield State Forest
🎯
Berkshire Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The village center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor activities. The area is also home to several highly-rated schools and community organizations.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Housatonic has regulations in place to preserve its natural environment and historic character, including zoning laws and conservation restrictions

Financial Tools

Calculators

Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city

Planning Tools

Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
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📊 Housatonic — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Housatonic tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating demands, with average monthly electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a decrease in utility costs, with average monthly electricity bills decreasing by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01236 has a property tax millage rate of 1.25%, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to additional taxes and fees, such as the Massachusetts state income tax and local excise taxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score: 6, Housatonic has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the area's hilly terrain and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with young children to get around without a car.

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