Lawrence, MA Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Lawrence, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Lawrence, MA offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living with a rich cultural scene and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Last updated: September 29, 2026

Total Utilities$360/mo

1BR Rent$1500/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$340,000

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Lawrence is experiencing a surge in economic growth, driven by new businesses and developments, and the city is investing in initiatives to support local entrepreneurs and innovators. However, the city also faces challenges related to affordability and gentrification, which are being addressed through community-led initiatives and policy changes.

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

National Grid

🔥 Gas

$70/mo

National Grid

💧 Water

$50/mo

Lawrence Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$360/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1900/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2400/mo
Median Home Price	$340,000
Property Tax Rate	1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Lawrence is competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a growing number of new developments and renovations. The city has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local initiatives. However, the market can be challenging for first-time homebuyers due to rising prices.

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	1.35%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0.03% optional meals 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

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+5% (growing)

Political Climate

Blue

Business Momentum

High, with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing

Top Local Concerns

Affordability, public safety, education

🚌 Transit for Families

The city has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a growing number of pedestrian-friendly areas, but some areas still lack adequate sidewalk infrastructure.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Lawrence Public Library
🎯
Den Rock Park
🎯
Lawrence Heritage State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Lawrence include the Downtown area, which offers a mix of old and new homes, and the Arlington neighborhood, which has a strong sense of community and plenty of parks and green spaces. The city is also investing in initiatives to revitalize and redevelop other neighborhoods, making them more attractive to families.

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

📰 Live Local News

Lawrence has regulations regarding zoning, parking, and waste management, and residents are encouraged to participate in community meetings to stay informed.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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📊 Lawrence — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

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

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.2 to 1.5, with no local surtaxes specific to Lawrence county, but some areas have additional taxes for services like water and sewer.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 7/10: Lawrence has made significant improvements to its sidewalk infrastructure and park access, but some areas still lack adequate elevators and ramps in public transit, and family infrastructure like changing tables and nursing rooms are not always available.

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