Lee, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Lee, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Lee, MA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

Last updated: September 28, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+18% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Lee
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The current financial trend in Lee is a growing demand for housing and commercial development, driven by the town's proximity to Pittsfield and the Massachusetts Turnpike. However, this growth also poses challenges for affordable housing and infrastructure.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Lee
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🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

Berkshire Gas Company
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Lee Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Lee is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, and prices have increased in recent years. The town has a few affordable housing options, but they are limited.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+18% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<p>State 6.25% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

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

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, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, traffic and transportation, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks in the downtown area.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    October Mountain State Forest
  • 🎯
    Pittsfield State Forest
  • 🎯
    Berkshire Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Willow Creek and Laurel Hill, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and amenities. The town also has a few rural areas with larger properties and a more secluded feel.

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📊 Lee — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lee fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity and gas bills in the winter due to heating, and higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01238 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7/10, with good sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and some areas with no sidewalks or crosswalks.

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