Lowell, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Lowell, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Lowell, MA offers a unique blend of rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities along the Merrimack River

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Lowell
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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

Lowell Water Utility
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 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$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Lowell is competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a growing number of condos and apartments. The city is working to revitalize its downtown area and attract new businesses and residents. As a result, housing prices are rising, but there are still affordable options available.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<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
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong Democratic presence in local government
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Lowell has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a growing number of pedestrian-friendly areas

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lowell National Historical Park
  • 🎯
    Merrimack Riverwalk
  • 🎯
    and the Tsongas Industrial History Center

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Acre and Downtown Lowell are popular areas for families, with a mix of old and new homes, and plenty of amenities and activities within walking distance. The Highlands neighborhood is also a desirable area, with a strong sense of community and easy access to parks and outdoor spaces.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Lowell has regulations in place to preserve its historic districts and protect the environment, including rules on recycling and waste management

Lowell is experiencing a surge in tech industry growth, with several major companies setting up shop in the city, and a growing number of startups calling Lowell home. This trend is expected to continue, with the city investing in infrastructure and workforce development to support the industry.

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📊 Lowell — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lowell tend to be higher in the winter months, due to the need for heating, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively lower, but can still be affected by air conditioning usage.

🏛️ 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 Lowell county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Lowell has made significant improvements to its sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure, and many parks and public spaces are stroller-friendly, but some areas still lack elevator access in transit and family infrastructure

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