Orleans, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Orleans, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Orleans, MA offers a unique blend of coastal charm and small-town character, with easy access to Cape Cod's beautiful beaches and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Last updated: September 19, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$420,000
📷 Live Cameras — Orleans
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🌤️ Live Weather — Orleans
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The current financial trend in Orleans is driven by a strong tourism industry, with many residents relying on summer rentals to supplement their income. However, this also leads to a seasonal fluctuation in the local economy, with slower winters and busy summers.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Orleans
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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

Orleans Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Orleans Department of Public Works
📶 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$420,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Orleans is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes, beachfront properties, and newer constructions. The town has a strong demand for rentals, particularly during the summer months. Home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years, driven by the town’s popularity as a vacation destination.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.15%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0% (no additional local sales tax)</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, hospitality, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Cape Cod Beaches
  • 🎯
    Orleans Pond
  • 🎯
    Whydah Pirate Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The village center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and community events. The East Orleans neighborhood is also popular with families, with its scenic views of the ocean and proximity to the beach.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Orleans has strict zoning regulations and environmental protections in place to preserve the town’s natural beauty and character

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📊 Orleans — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Orleans tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a surge in heating costs due to the cold New England climate. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02653 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no additional local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score: 7, Orleans has a mix of stroller-friendly and challenging areas, with some sidewalks and bike paths, but also some narrow roads and lack of elevator access in some public buildings

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