East Wareham, MA Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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East Wareham, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in East Wareham, MA offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rural tranquility, with easy access to Cape Cod and surrounding natural beauty.

Last updated: October 9, 2026

Total Utilities$290/mo

1BR Rent$1100/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index108 (+8% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$340,000

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East Wareham is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Cape Cod and the growing demand for tourism and hospitality services. The area is also seeing an increase in remote workers and entrepreneurs, drawn by its natural beauty and relatively low cost of living.

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$50/mo

Wareham Department of Public Works

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2000/mo
Median Home Price	$340,000
Property Tax Rate	1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in East Wareham is characterized by a mix of older and newer homes, with a growing demand for rental properties. The area is popular with families and retirees, and home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years. However, the market remains relatively affordable compared to other areas of Massachusetts.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

103

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 1.05% optional</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and technology

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection

🚌 Transit for Families

East Wareham has limited public transportation options, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Onset Beach
🎯
Wareham Village
🎯
Cape Cod Children's Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Onset Beach is popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes, as well as easy access to the beach and local amenities. The village of Wareham is also a desirable area, with its historic homes, shops, and restaurants. For those looking for a more rural setting, the areas surrounding East Wareham offer a range of options, from farmhouses to modern subdivisions.

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

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East Wareham has regulations in place to protect its natural resources, including wetland protection bylaws and zoning ordinances to preserve the area’s rural character.

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📊 East Wareham — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in East Wareham tend to be higher in the winter months, due to the need for heating, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively lower, but may still be higher than in other parts of the country due to the area's high cost of living.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02538 has a property tax millage rate of 12.34, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to additional taxes and fees, such as the Massachusetts state income tax and local excise taxes on vehicles.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the area's limited public transportation options and varying sidewalk quality, but with many parks and outdoor spaces that are stroller-friendly and accessible.

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