Malden, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Malden, 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$370/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$430,000
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Malden Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.34%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Malden’s housing market is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The city is investing in new developments and renovations to meet the growing demand. However, affordability remains a concern for many residents.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.34%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0% (no additional city 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

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in healthcare, technology, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and transportation, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Malden has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow sidewalks and lack of elevators

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Malden Public Library
  • 🎯
    Waitt's Mount Park
  • 🎯
    Oak Grove Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Faulkner neighborhood is a popular area for families, with its tree-lined streets and historic homes. The Maplewood neighborhood is also a desirable area, with its mix of old and new homes and easy access to parks and schools. The downtown area is also becoming increasingly popular, with its vibrant shops and restaurants.

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📊 Malden — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

During the summer months, utility costs in Malden can increase due to air conditioning usage, with an average increase of 10-15% in electricity costs. In the winter, heating costs can also rise, with an average increase of 20-25% in gas costs.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02148 has a property tax millage rate of 1.34, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be eligible for state and federal tax deductions.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score: 6, Malden has made efforts to improve sidewalk quality and park access, but some areas still lack elevators in transit and family infrastructure, making it challenging for stroller users to navigate

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