Haverhill, MA Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Haverhill, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Haverhill, MA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in the Merrimack Valley region.

Last updated: October 3, 2026

Total Utilities$380/mo

1BR Rent$1400/mo

Sales Tax6.25%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$340,000

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Haverhill is experiencing a surge in economic growth, driven by new businesses and developments in the downtown area. However, this growth also brings challenges, such as increased traffic and housing costs, which the city is working to address.

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

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Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

National Grid

🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid

💧 Water

$50/mo

Haverhill Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waste Management

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2400/mo
Median Home Price	$340,000
Property Tax Rate	1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

Haverhill’s housing market is characterized by a mix of old and new homes, with many historic properties available for renovation. The city has seen an increase in new construction and redevelopment projects in recent years. However, affordability remains a concern for some residents.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6.25%
Property Tax Rate	1.35%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 1.05% option tax (not all communities have this)</p>

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

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 description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican representation

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and manufacturing

Top Local Concerns

Affordability, traffic, public safety

🚌 Transit for Families

Haverhill has a relatively walkable downtown area, with some public transportation options available, including the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority bus system.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Winnekenni Castle
🎯
Haverhill Public Library
🎯
Plug Pond

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area, Bradford, and Riverside are popular neighborhoods for families, offering a mix of historic homes, parks, and community amenities. However, other areas, such as the Acre and Mount Washington, are also worth considering for their unique character and affordability.

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

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Haverhill has regulations in place regarding zoning, parking, and waste management, which are enforced by the city’s departments.

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📊 Haverhill — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Haverhill, utility costs tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a decrease in utility costs, with average bills dropping by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.2 to 1.5, with no local surtaxes specific to Haverhill county, but some ZIP codes may have additional taxes or fees.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Haverhill has some sidewalks and parks, but could improve on elevator access in transit and family infrastructure, with some areas having limited stroller-friendly amenities.

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