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Otis, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Otis, MA offers a serene and peaceful environment with easy access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: September 18, 2026

Total Utilities$290/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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🌤️ Live Weather — Otis

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The current financial trends in Otis indicate a strong and stable economy, with a growing population and increasing property values. However, the town's remote location and limited job opportunities may pose challenges for some residents.

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Otis

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Otis Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2000/mo
Median Home Price	$340,000
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Otis 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 homes in desirable locations.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

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

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

Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries including tourism, agriculture, and small manufacturing

Top Local Concerns

Affordability, traffic, and environmental protection

🚌 Transit for Families

Otis has limited public transportation options, but the town's rural roads and sidewalks are generally stroller-friendly, with some areas having designated bike lanes and pedestrian paths.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Otis Ridge Ski Area
🎯
Otis Reservoir
🎯
and the Berkshire Mountains

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding areas offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to local amenities and outdoor recreation. The East Otis and West Otis neighborhoods are also popular, with their rural settings and scenic views.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Otis has regulations in place to protect its natural resources, including wetland protection bylaws and zoning regulations to preserve the town’s rural character.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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📊 Otis — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

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

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01253 has a property tax millage rate of 1.25, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to state and federal taxes, including the Massachusetts state income tax.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Otis has some stroller-friendly infrastructure, including sidewalks and bike lanes, but the town's rural roads and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around.

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