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Boston, MA Utility & Living Guide
Living in Boston offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, with world-class universities and hospitals, and a thriving job market.
Monthly Utility Costs
$140/mo
$70/mo
$50/mo
$30/mo
$70/mo
Housing Market
| Rent & Property | |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $2300/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2800/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3500/mo |
| Median Home Price | $640,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.33% |
| Avg Childcare/mo | $2000 |
The Boston housing market is highly competitive, with limited inventory and high demand, especially in neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Cambridge. Rent prices have increased significantly in recent years, and buyers can expect to pay a premium for homes in desirable areas. However, the city is also investing in new developments and affordable housing initiatives.
Cost of Living
146
+46% above national average
115
118
105
$2000
Tax Rates
| Tax Overview | |
|---|---|
| Total Sales Tax | 6.25% |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.33% |
| <p>State 5.2% + No County tax + No City tax (but some local option taxes may apply)</p> | |
Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with some deductions and exemptions available
Family & Relocation
60
7.5/10
$2000/mo
City Pulse
Boston's public transit system, including the T and buses, is generally stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps at most stations, but some older stations may have limited accessibility
- Museum of Science
- Boston Children's Museum
- Franklin Park Zoo
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Household Budget Calculator
Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Boston based on your household profile.
Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse
Live Local News
Boston has strict regulations around zoning, parking, and waste management, and residents are required to recycle and follow specific guidelines for trash disposal
Financial Tools
- Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
- Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
- Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
- Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city
- Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
- Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
- Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
- City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side
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📊 Boston — Census & Demographic Data
Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.
☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs
In Boston, utility costs tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating costs, with the average household paying around $200-300 per month for gas and electric. In the summer, costs are lower, but can still be around $100-200 per month due to air conditioning usage.
🏛️ Local Tax Details
In Boston, property tax millage rates vary by ZIP code, with rates ranging from 1.15 to 1.45, and some local surtaxes apply, such as the Boston Water and Sewer Commission's stormwater fee
👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness
8/10, with Boston's sidewalks and parks generally well-maintained and accessible, but some areas like the North End and Beacon Hill can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow streets and historic architecture
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