Oak Bluffs, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Oak Bluffs, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Oak Bluffs, MA, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to beautiful beaches and outdoor recreation opportunities on Martha's Vineyard

Last updated: September 19, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$430,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Oak Bluffs
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The current financial trend in Oak Bluffs is a strong demand for summer rentals and a growing interest in year-round residency, driven by the town's unique charm and amenities. However, the high cost of living and limited housing supply remain challenges for residents and visitors alike.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Oak Bluffs
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Oak Bluffs Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Martha's Vineyard Refuse District
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate0.83%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Oak Bluffs is highly competitive, with a limited supply of homes and high demand from summer residents and tourists. Rentals are often snapped up quickly, and prices can be steep. However, the town offers a range of housing options, from cozy cottages to larger homes and condos.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

120

Transportation

110

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate0.83%
<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

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tourism, hospitality, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and parking, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

The Vineyard Transit Authority provides public bus service, but the town's narrow streets and limited sidewalks can make it challenging to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Oak Bluffs Beach
  • 🎯
    Farm Neck Golf Club
  • 🎯
    Martha's Vineyard Family Center

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and nearby neighborhoods, such as Circuit Avenue and Seaview Avenue, offer a range of amenities and activities for families, including shops, restaurants, and parks. The town's beaches and outdoor recreation areas are also popular with families.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Oak Bluffs has strict zoning laws and regulations to preserve the town’s historic character and natural resources

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📊 Oak Bluffs — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Oak Bluffs can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher water costs in the summer due to irrigation and tourism. In the winter, heating costs can be high due to the town's coastal location and cold winters.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02557 has a property tax millage rate of 0.83, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the town's narrow streets and limited sidewalks, but with some parks and outdoor areas that are stroller-friendly, such as the Oak Bluffs Beach and the Martha's Vineyard Bike Trail

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