Manchester, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Manchester, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Manchester, MA offers a unique blend of coastal charm and suburban convenience just north of Boston.

Last updated: September 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
📷 Live Cameras — Manchester
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🌤️ Live Weather — Manchester
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Manchester's economy is driven by tourism, healthcare, and technology, with a growing number of startups and small businesses. The town is also seeing significant investment in its downtown area, with new shops and restaurants opening regularly.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Manchester
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Manchester Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2000/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Manchester is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. The town has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by its proximity to Boston and the commuter rail. As a result, prices have risen, but the quality of life remains high.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordability, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Manchester has a relatively walkable downtown area, but public transit options are limited, making a car necessary for many residents.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Singing Beach
  • 🎯
    Manchester Harbor
  • 🎯
    Cape Ann Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Manchester-by-the-Sea and Magnolia, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and the beach. These areas offer a range of housing options, from historic homes to newer constructions.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Manchester has strict zoning laws and environmental regulations to protect its coastal resources and historic districts.

Financial Tools

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📊 Manchester — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Manchester fluctuate significantly by season, with high heating bills in winter and moderate cooling costs in summer. Residents can expect to pay more for electricity and heating oil during the colder months, but overall costs remain relatively high year-round due to the town's coastal location.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01944 has a property tax rate of 1.23%, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to state and federal taxes on their property.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks, but limited public transit options and some challenging hills and stairs in the downtown area.

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