Medford, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Medford, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Medford, MA offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities just outside of Boston

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$370/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$430,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Medford
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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

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Medford Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Medford’s housing market is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The city is investing in new developments and infrastructure to support its growing population. However, affordability remains a challenge for many residents

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

114

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 1.05% option tax</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

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in healthcare, education, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Medford has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Mystic River Reservation
  • 🎯
    Medford Public Library
  • 🎯
    Tufts University campus

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Medford include Wellington, West Medford, and downtown Medford, which offer a mix of parks, schools, and community amenities. These areas are also relatively safe and have a strong sense of community

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Medford has regulations around zoning, parking, and waste management, and is also subject to Massachusetts state laws and regulations

Medford is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Boston and the growing demand for housing and services. However, this growth also brings challenges around affordability, traffic, and infrastructure

Financial Tools

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📊 Medford — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Medford, utility costs tend to be higher in the winter due to heating costs, with average monthly bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a smaller increase in utility costs due to air conditioning usage

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.15 to 1.30, with no local surtaxes specific to Medford county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but some areas lack elevator access in public transit and have limited family infrastructure

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