South Lee, MA Utility & Living Guide

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South Lee, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in South Lee, MA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

Last updated: September 5, 2026
Total Utilities$360/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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South Lee is experiencing a surge in popularity as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, driven by its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The local economy is also benefiting from a growing arts and cultural scene, with new businesses and events emerging to cater to the increasing population.
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🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

Berkshire Gas
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Lee Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$360/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in South Lee is characterized by a mix of older and newer homes, with a range of prices to suit different budgets. The town has seen steady growth in recent years, with new developments and renovations adding to the inventory of available homes. However, the market can be competitive, especially for affordable options.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<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
Purple (mixed Democratic and Republican leaning)
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and some bike lanes.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    October Mountain State Forest
  • 🎯
    Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum
  • 🎯
    Clark Art Institute

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods of South Lee and Lee Center are popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes, good schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The town's downtown area is also undergoing revitalization, with new shops and restaurants emerging to serve the growing population.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

The town has regulations in place to preserve its historic character and natural resources, including zoning laws and environmental protections.

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📊 South Lee — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in South Lee tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility bills, with a decrease of 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01238 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, due to the town's relatively narrow sidewalks and limited bike infrastructure, although efforts are being made to improve accessibility and family-friendly infrastructure.

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