Ipswich, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Ipswich, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Ipswich, MA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities in a picturesque coastal town.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+18% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$430,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Ipswich
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Ipswich Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Ipswich Department of Public Works
📶 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$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Ipswich is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and new constructions. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local preservation efforts. Home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+18% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

103

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
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

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
High, with key industries in healthcare, education, and tourism
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Ipswich has a relatively walkable downtown area, but public transit options are limited, making it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Ipswich Riverwalk
  • 🎯
    Crane Beach
  • 🎯
    Ipswich Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Linebrook and Ipswich Village, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and community amenities. These areas offer a mix of historic homes and newer constructions, with a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Ipswich has regulations in place to preserve its historic district and protect the environment, including restrictions on new development and waste management.

Ipswich is experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by its desirable location and high quality of life. As a result, the local economy is growing, with new businesses and restaurants opening in the downtown area.

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📊 Ipswich — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Ipswich fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas bills in the winter for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01938 has a property tax millage rate of 12.34, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Ipswich has some sidewalks and parks, but they can be uneven and limited, making it challenging for strollers. However, the town is relatively small and walkable, with some family-friendly infrastructure, such as the Ipswich Riverwalk.

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