Cambridge, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Cambridge, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Cambridge, MA offers a unique blend of academic and cultural attractions, with a thriving community and high standard of living.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$2200/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Cambridge
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Cambridge Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Cambridge Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$2200/mo
2 Bedrooms$2800/mo
3 Bedrooms$3600/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.08%
Avg Childcare/mo$2000

The housing market in Cambridge is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new buildings, and a strong demand for rentals and homes. The city has a range of neighborhoods, from affordable to very expensive. Rent control measures are in place to protect tenants.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

115

Transportation

105

Healthcare

95

Childcare/mo

$2000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.08%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0%</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

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$2000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong liberal presence
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in biotech, healthcare, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and public transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

The MBTA public transit system in Cambridge is relatively stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps at many stations, but can be crowded during peak hours

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Museum of Science
  • 🎯
    Boston Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Cambridge Public Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Cambridge include Cambridgeport, Harvard Square, and North Cambridge, which offer a range of parks, playgrounds, and community amenities. These areas are also close to top-rated schools and public transportation.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Cambridge has regulations around short-term rentals, noise ordinances, and zoning laws to protect residents and the environment

Cambridge is experiencing a surge in tech industry growth, with many startups and established companies setting up shop in the city. This has led to an increase in housing prices and a competitive job market.

Financial Tools

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📊 Cambridge — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

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

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.04 to 1.12, with no local surtaxes specific to Cambridge county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, many parks and playgrounds, and relatively easy access to public transportation, but some areas can be crowded and have limited elevator access

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