South Orleans, MA Utility & Living Guide

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South Orleans, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in South Orleans, MA offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rural tranquility, with easy access to Cape Cod's beautiful beaches and outdoor recreation areas.

Last updated: September 5, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$420,000
📷 Live Cameras — South Orleans
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🌤️ Live Weather — South Orleans
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The current financial trend in South Orleans is a growing demand for second-home buyers and retirees, driving up housing prices. Additionally, the town is seeing an increase in new businesses and developments, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — South Orleans
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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

Town of Orleans Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 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$420,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in South Orleans is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The town has a range of housing options, from small cottages to large estates. However, the market can be pricey, with median home prices over $400,000.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<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
Blue description
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks in the downtown area.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Cape Cod Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Whydah Pirate Museum
  • 🎯
    Nickerson State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in South Orleans include the downtown area, with its shops and restaurants, and the neighborhoods surrounding Nickerson State Park, which offer a more rural and natural setting. The town also has several beachfront neighborhoods that are popular with families.

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📊 South Orleans — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in South Orleans can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and higher heating oil costs in the winter. However, the town's mild coastal climate means that extreme temperature fluctuations are rare.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02653 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller, although some areas may have limited elevator access in transit

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