Melrose, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Melrose, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Melrose, MA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities just north of Boston

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$440,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Melrose
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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

Melrose Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$440,000
Property Tax Rate1.34%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Melrose has a highly competitive housing market with a mix of old and new homes, prices are rising due to its proximity to Boston and good schools. The city offers a range of housing options from apartments to single-family homes. However, affordability can be a challenge for some buyers.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.34%
<p>State 6.25% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%

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 healthcare, technology, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordability, public transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

Melrose has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a commuter rail station, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Melrose Public Library
  • 🎯
    Ell Pond
  • 🎯
    Franklin Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Melrose include the downtown area, which offers a range of amenities and a strong sense of community, as well as the more suburban areas like Wyoming and Franklin Square. These neighborhoods offer a mix of housing options, parks, and playgrounds, making them ideal for families.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Melrose has regulations regarding zoning, parking, and waste management, and residents are encouraged to recycle

Melrose is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Boston and a strong local economy. The city is also investing in infrastructure and transportation improvements to support its growing population.

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📊 Melrose — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Melrose can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher costs in the winter due to heating and in the summer due to air conditioning. Residents can expect to pay more for electricity and gas during these peak months, but can also take advantage of energy-efficient programs and rebates offered by the city and utility companies.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02176 has a property tax millage rate of 1.34, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7, Melrose has good sidewalk quality and park access, but some areas lack elevator access in transit and family infrastructure, making it somewhat challenging to navigate with a stroller

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