Russell, MA Utility & Living Guide

⚡ Featured Deal

Essentials for Your New Home

🛒 Shop This Deal Now

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tier 3 Location

Russell, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Russell, MA offers a tranquil and picturesque experience with easy access to outdoor activities and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: September 15, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
📷 Live Cameras — Russell
Live camera
Live · refreshing...
🌤️ Live Weather — Russell
Loading weather...
The current financial trends in Russell indicate a strong and stable economy, with a growing demand for housing and a low unemployment rate. The town's proximity to major cities and its natural attractions make it an attractive destination for tourists and residents alike.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Russell
Loading hazard data...
💼 Calculate Your Future Retirement Income

Moving Your Assets to Russell?

Moving to Russell? Find out how much retirement income you could generate based on your current savings, age, and goals. Calculate Your Retirement Income → Free · Takes 2 minutes · No personal data required
💰 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

Russell Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/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 Russell is characterized by a mix of old and new homes, with a range of prices to suit different budgets. The town has seen a steady increase in property values over the years, making it a desirable place to live. However, the inventory of available homes can be limited at times.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

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
Traffic, education, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Russell is limited, but the town's compact size and walkable streets make it easy to get around without a car, and strollers can be accommodated on the available transit options.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Russell Pond
  • 🎯
    Westfield River
  • 🎯
    October Mountain State Forest

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods around Russell Pond and the town center are popular with families, offering a mix of old and new homes, easy access to amenities, and a strong sense of community. The area is also close to local schools and parks.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Russell has regulations in place to preserve its natural beauty and historic character, including zoning laws and environmental protections.

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

Find Another City Guide

Search by city name or ZIP code to find utility costs, housing data and cost of living guides.

📊 Russell — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Russell fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and higher heating oil bills in the winter. However, the town's mild climate means that these fluctuations are relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01071 has a property tax millage rate of 18.5, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and elevators in public buildings, making it easy to navigate the town with a stroller.

📰 Latest MA Stories
Massachusetts Living Report — July 27, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 27, 2026

With a population just shy of seven million, Massachusetts presents a classic trade-off for anyone considering a move:...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 26, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 26, 2026

Considering a move to Massachusetts means weighing its reputation for top-tier education and historic charm against a notoriously...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 25, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 25, 2026

For anyone considering a move to Massachusetts, the state presents a compelling but costly proposition. Home to nearly...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 24, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 24, 2026

With a population of just under seven million—6,984,205 to be precise—Massachusetts is one of the most densely populated...

Read more →
Amazon

Get your home essentials, storage, and moving supplies delivered.

Shop Moving Essentials

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.