Gardner, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Gardner, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Gardner, MA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Gardner
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Gardner Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Gardner is relatively affordable, with a range of options available from historic homes to new constructions. However, the market can be competitive, and prices are rising. Renters can find apartments and houses, but prices are increasing due to demand.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

96

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<p>State 6.25% + 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

7.1/10

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 in healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Gardner has a limited public transportation system, but the city is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Gardner Museum
  • 🎯
    Dunn State Park
  • 🎯
    Mount Wachusett Community College's theater

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Jackson Street and Park Street, offer a mix of historic homes, shops, and restaurants, making them attractive to families. The city's outskirts have more suburban-style developments with parks and playgrounds.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Gardner has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and waste management, which are enforced by the city’s departments.

Gardner's economy is growing, driven by industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing. However, the city faces challenges related to affordable housing and transportation infrastructure.

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📊 Gardner — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Gardner are higher due to air conditioning usage, while in the winter, costs increase due to heating needs. Residents can expect to pay more for electricity and heating oil during these peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01440 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Gardner has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the city's infrastructure can be challenging for families with strollers, particularly in areas with limited elevator access in transit and some rough sidewalks.

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