North Adams, MA Utility & Living Guide

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North Adams, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in North Adams, MA offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm in the heart of the Berkshire Mountains

Last updated: September 23, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$240,000
📷 Live Cameras — North Adams
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🌤️ Live Weather — North Adams
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North Adams is experiencing a resurgence in economic activity, driven by tourism, arts, and outdoor recreation. However, the city still faces challenges related to poverty and limited job opportunities.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — North Adams
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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

City of North Adams Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of North Adams Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$240,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in North Adams is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes, and some new developments underway. Rentals are also available, including apartments and houses. However, the market can be competitive, especially for affordable options.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% 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 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

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, job creation, infrastructure development
🚌 Transit for Families

The city has a walkable downtown area, but public transit options are limited, and sidewalks can be uneven in some areas

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Mass MoCA
  • 🎯
    Clark Art Institute
  • 🎯
    Berkshire Athenaeum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Eagle Street and Church Street, offer a mix of historic homes, shops, and restaurants, making them popular with families. Other neighborhoods, like Greylock and Brayton Hill, offer more affordable options with easy access to outdoor recreation.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

North Adams has regulations regarding zoning, historic preservation, and environmental protection, which may impact residents and businesses

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📊 North Adams — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in North Adams can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning, and higher heating costs in the winter. However, the city's relatively mild climate means that these fluctuations are not as extreme as in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01247 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, due to the city's walkable downtown area and some parks with good accessibility, but uneven sidewalks and limited public transit options in some areas

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