Ashby, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Ashby, MA Utility & Living Guide

Ashby is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 3,193 at the 2020 census, which makes it the least populous municipality in Middlesex County. Ashby is primarily a bedroom community, consisting almost entirely of single family homes and a limited number of busine

Last updated: June 26, 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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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Ashby
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 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 Ashby 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$1900/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Ashby is characterized by a mix of old and new 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 affordable options.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<p>State 6.25% + 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

7.2/10

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 agriculture, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and preserving rural character
🚌 Transit for Families

Ashby has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Ashby Town Park
  • 🎯
    Ashby Free Public Library
  • 🎯
    Fitchburg State University's recreation facilities

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding areas offer a mix of historic homes and newer developments, with easy access to local amenities. The nearby neighborhoods of Fitchburg and Lunenburg also offer a range of housing options and community resources.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Ashby has regulations in place to preserve its rural character, including zoning laws and environmental protections.

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📊 Ashby — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

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

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01431 has a property tax rate of 1.25%, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to state and federal taxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Ashby has some sidewalks and crosswalks, but the town's rural layout and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car.

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