Chilmark, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Chilmark, MA Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Chilmark
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Chilmark Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Chilmark Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate0.83%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Chilmark is highly competitive, with a limited supply of homes and high demand from summer residents and year-round families. Prices tend to be higher than in other parts of the state, reflecting the town’s desirable location and natural beauty. Rentals are also scarce, especially during the summer months.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

118

Transportation

94

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate0.83%
<p>State 6.25% + No County or City tax</p>

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

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 description, with a strong liberal presence and a high percentage of Democratic voters.
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, hospitality, and agriculture.
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and parking, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Chilmark has a limited public transportation system, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with many sidewalks and bike paths.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Menemsha Beach
  • 🎯
    Chilmark Public Library
  • 🎯
    Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The village of Chilmark, Menemsha, and the North Road area are popular with families, offering a mix of rural and coastal living, with access to beaches, parks, and community amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Chilmark has strict zoning and building codes to protect its rural character and natural resources, and also has regulations in place to manage summer rentals and short-term rentals.

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📊 Chilmark — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Chilmark tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, and lower in the winter months when heating demands are reduced. However, the town's mild oceanic climate means that heating and cooling costs are generally lower than in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02535 has a property tax rate of 0.83%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 7/10, with explanation: Chilmark has good sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and some challenges with family infrastructure, such as a lack of dedicated bike lanes and limited public transportation options.

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