Arlington, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Arlington, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Arlington, MA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities just outside of Boston

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$370/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Arlington
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Arlington Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 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$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1500

Arlington’s housing market is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes and new construction. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local politics and preservation efforts. However, the high cost of living and limited affordability may be a challenge for some buyers.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

114

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1500

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<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 some deductions and exemptions available

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1500/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong presence of progressive and liberal voters
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, biotech, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and transportation, environmental sustainability
🚌 Transit for Families

Arlington has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas may require more walking or planning

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Arlington Reservoir
  • 🎯
    Menotomy Rocks Park
  • 🎯
    Dana Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Arlington include East Arlington, which offers a mix of historic homes and new construction, and Arlington Heights, which has a strong sense of community and easy access to parks and schools. Other popular areas include Brackett District and Capitol Square.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Arlington has regulations around zoning, historic preservation, and environmental protection, which may impact residents and businesses

Arlington is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, particularly in the tech and biotech sectors, which is driving up housing prices and changing the local economy. However, the town is also investing in initiatives to support affordability and community engagement.

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📊 Arlington — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Arlington, utility costs tend to fluctuate with the seasons, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter due to heating. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during these peak months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.15 to 1.30, with no local surtaxes specific to Arlington county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 7/10, with explanation: Arlington has good sidewalk quality and park access, but some areas may lack elevator access in transit and family infrastructure, such as changing tables and nursing rooms.

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