Dalton, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Dalton, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Dalton, MA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Dalton
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Berkshire Gas Company
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Dalton Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Dalton is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and organizations. However, the inventory of available homes can be limited, especially in certain price ranges.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<p>State 5.2% + 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

55

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 Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and transportation, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

The town has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dalton CRA
  • 🎯
    Pittsfield State Forest
  • 🎯
    Berkshire Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Dalton include the downtown area, which offers a mix of older and newer homes, as well as the surrounding rural areas, which provide a more secluded and natural environment. The town also has several parks and playgrounds, making it an attractive option for families with children.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The town has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental protection.

The current financial trends in Dalton are driven by a growing economy and a strong sense of community, with many residents supporting local businesses and initiatives. However, the town also faces challenges related to affordability and accessibility, particularly for low- and moderate-income households.

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📊 Dalton — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Dalton can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning usage and higher gas costs in the winter due to heating needs. However, the town's relatively mild climate means that these fluctuations are not as extreme as in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01226 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with explanation: Dalton has well-maintained sidewalks and accessible parks, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. However, some areas of the town may have limited elevator access in transit, and the rural areas may have fewer amenities and services within walking distance.

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