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Allston, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Allston, MA offers a unique blend of urban convenience and small-town charm, with easy access to Boston and a thriving arts and culture scene.

Last updated: September 2, 2026

Total Utilities$370/mo

1BR Rent$1800/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index146 (+20% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$440,000

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The current financial trend in Allston is a growing demand for housing and commercial space, driven by the area's proximity to Boston and its thriving arts and culture scene. As a result, property values and rents are likely to continue rising in the coming years.

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy

🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid

💧 Water

$50/mo

Boston Water and Sewer Commission

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Boston Public Works

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms	$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2800/mo
Median Home Price	$440,000
Property Tax Rate	1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Allston is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new buildings, and a range of prices to suit different budgets. Rentals are in high demand, especially among students and young professionals. Home prices have been rising in recent years, but there are still some affordable options available.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

114

Transportation

104

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.35%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 1.05% option tax</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+5% (growing)

Political Climate

Blue description, with a strong presence of liberal and progressive voters.

Business Momentum

High, with key industries in biotech, healthcare, and education

Top Local Concerns

Affordability, traffic, and public safety

🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Allston is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow sidewalks and lack of elevators.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Harvard Museum of Natural History
🎯
Boston Children's Museum
🎯
Franklin Park Zoo

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Allston are those with easy access to parks, schools, and public transportation, such as the area around Harvard Avenue and Commonwealth Avenue. These neighborhoods offer a range of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes, and a strong sense of community.

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

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Allston has regulations in place to control noise levels, parking, and waste management, and residents are encouraged to participate in community clean-up initiatives.

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📊 Allston — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Allston can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher costs in the winter months due to heating and in the summer months due to air conditioning. For example, the average monthly electricity bill can be $150 in the summer and $100 in the winter, while the average monthly gas bill can be $100 in the winter and $50 in the summer.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02134 has a property tax millage rate of 1.35, with no local surtaxes. However, there may be additional taxes or fees for specific services, such as water and sewer.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, The sidewalks in Allston are generally well-maintained, but can be narrow in some areas, and there are limited elevators in the public transportation system. However, there are many parks and green spaces with accessible paths, and some businesses have stroller-friendly entrances and amenities.

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