Bedford, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Bedford, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Bedford, MA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities just outside of Boston

Last updated: September 2, 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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🌤️ Live Weather — Bedford
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The current financial trend in Bedford is a strong demand for housing, driven by its excellent schools and commute to Boston. As a result, home prices and rents continue to rise, making it essential for buyers and renters to be prepared for a competitive market.
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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

Bedford 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$1200

The housing market in Bedford is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes and new construction. The town has a strong sense of community, with many families and young professionals calling it home. Inventory can be limited, so it’s essential to act quickly when finding the right property.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

98

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong liberal presence
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in biotech, technology, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordability, schools
🚌 Transit for Families

Bedford has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a commuter rail station with elevators

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bedford Children's Center
  • 🎯
    Concord Museum
  • 🎯
    Minute Man National Historical Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Bedford include the town center, with its walkable streets and community events, as well as the surrounding suburbs, which offer a more rural feel. The Oak Park neighborhood is also popular, with its tree-lined streets and historic homes.

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📊 Bedford — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bedford fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01730 has a property tax millage rate of 1.23, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and elevators in the commuter rail station, making it easy to get around with a stroller

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