Rockport, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Rockport, MA Utility & Living Guide

Rockport is a seaside town in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 6,992 in 2020. Rockport is about 40 miles (64 km) northeast of Boston, at the tip of Cape Ann. It borders Gloucester to its west, and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean in all other directions.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Rockport
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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

Rockport Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Rockport is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. Prices tend to be higher near the coast. Rentals are scarce, especially during peak summer months.

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 Rate1.25%
<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

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, hospitality, and creative services
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but the town is walkable and bike-friendly, with some stroller-friendly paths and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Cape Ann Museum
  • 🎯
    Halibut Point State Park
  • 🎯
    Rockport Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and modern amenities, making them ideal for families. The area around Halibut Point State Park is also popular for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Strict zoning laws and historic district regulations apply to many areas of Rockport

Financial Tools

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📊 Rockport — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Rockport fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher heating costs in the winter. Water and sewage costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01966 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and some stroller-friendly public transportation options, but limited elevator access in some areas

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