Springfield, MA Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Springfield, MA Utility & Living Guide

Springfield is the most populous city in Hampden County, Massachusetts, United States, and its county seat. Springfield sits on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River near its confluence with three rivers: the western Westfield River, the eastern Chicopee River, and the eastern Mill River. At the

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Total Utilities$350/mo

1BR Rent$1100/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index118 (+8% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$240,000

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy

🔥 Gas

$70/mo

Columbia Gas of Massachusetts

💧 Water

$50/mo

Springfield Water and Sewer Commission

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Springfield Department of Public Works

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1900/mo
Median Home Price	$240,000
Property Tax Rate	1.75%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Springfield is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, some neighborhoods are experiencing revitalization efforts, which may impact prices. Renters can find a range of options, from apartments to single-family homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.75%
<p>State 5.2% + No county tax + Local 0% (no additional city tax)</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Blue description, with a strong Democratic presence in local government

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and manufacturing

Top Local Concerns

Public safety, education, economic development

🚌 Transit for Families

The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) provides public transportation in Springfield, with some stroller-friendly buses and a relatively accessible downtown area.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Springfield Museums
🎯
Forest Park Zoo
🎯
Holyoke Children's Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The McKnight and Liberty Heights neighborhoods are popular with families, offering a mix of historic homes and modern amenities. The downtown area is also experiencing revitalization, with new restaurants and shops opening.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Springfield has regulations regarding property maintenance, zoning, and historic preservation, which residents should be aware of.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
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Planning Tools

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📊 Springfield — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Springfield can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during these peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.4 to 1.8, with no local surtaxes specific to Springfield county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: while Springfield has some stroller-friendly areas, such as the downtown and some parks, sidewalk quality and elevator access in transit can be limited in certain neighborhoods.

📍 Springfield City Stories

Oct 9, 2026