Hampden, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Hampden, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Hampden, MA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to nearby cities like Springfield and Holyoke

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$370/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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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

Columbia Gas of Massachusetts
💧 Water

$50/mo

Hampden Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Hampden is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available for sale and rent. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and initiatives. However, the inventory of available homes can be limited at times, which may drive up prices.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<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

7.2/10

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 including education, healthcare, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Property taxes, public safety, traffic and road maintenance
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Hampden Town Park
  • 🎯
    Wilbraham & Monson Academy
  • 🎯
    Springfield Museums

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around the town center is popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes within walking distance to schools, shops, and restaurants. The neighborhood of Thorndike is also desirable, with its tree-lined streets and historic homes.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Hampden has regulations in place regarding zoning, building permits, and waste management, which are enforced by the town’s building department and board of health

Hampden is experiencing a trend of increasing property values, driven by its desirable location and strong school system. However, this growth also brings concerns about affordability and the potential for gentrification.

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📊 Hampden — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

During the winter months, heating costs can increase significantly due to the cold New England climate, while summer months see a surge in electricity usage for air conditioning. As a result, residents can expect to pay more for utilities during these peak seasons.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01036 has a property tax millage rate of 23.45, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, due to the town's limited but improving sidewalk infrastructure, with some parks and playgrounds offering stroller-friendly access, but also some areas with limited elevator access in public buildings

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