East Boston, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

East Boston, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in East Boston offers a unique blend of urban convenience and waterfront views, with easy access to downtown Boston and a diverse community.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$360/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$430,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — East Boston
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$70/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Boston Water and Sewer Commission
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Boston Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $360/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.33%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in East Boston is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new construction, and a range of prices from affordable to luxury. The area is popular with young professionals and families, and there are many amenities and services available. However, the market can be challenging for buyers, with limited inventory and high demand.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

115

Transportation

105

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.33%
<p>State 5.2% + No county tax + Local 0.5% option tax (not applicable in East Boston)</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with no local income tax in East Boston.

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
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong Democratic presence and a diverse, progressive community.
Business Momentum
High, with key industries including biotech, healthcare, and technology, as well as a thriving arts and cultural scene.
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, gentrification, traffic and transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in East Boston is relatively stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps at many stations, and a convenient bus and train network.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Boston Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Franklin Park Zoo
  • 🎯
    East Boston Memorial Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in East Boston include Jeffries Point, which offers a mix of old and new homes, and a strong sense of community, as well as Eagle Hill, which has a more suburban feel and easy access to parks and green spaces. Other popular areas include Day Square and Orient Heights.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Rent control, zoning regulations, and historic district preservation are key local rules for residents in East Boston.

East Boston is experiencing a surge in new development and investment, with a focus on waterfront properties and mixed-use projects. The area is also seeing growth in the tech and biotech industries, with many startups and established companies setting up shop in the neighborhood.

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📊 East Boston — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in East Boston can be higher due to air conditioning usage, while in the winter, heating costs can be significant due to the cold New England climate. However, the area's proximity to the water can help moderate temperatures, and many homes have energy-efficient systems to reduce costs.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02128 has a property tax millage rate of 1.33, with no local surtaxes specific to East Boston county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10, with explanation: East Boston has good sidewalk quality, with many wide, paved paths and ramps, and easy access to parks and green spaces, including the East Boston Memorial Park and the Harborwalk Trail. However, some areas can be challenging for strollers, with narrow streets and limited elevator access in older buildings.

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