Rochester, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Rochester, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Rochester, MA offers a tranquil and picturesque setting with easy access to Boston and Cape Cod

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Rochester
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Rochester Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Rochester is characterized by a mix of historic homes and new constructions, with a moderate supply of rentals available. The town’s rural setting and limited public transportation options may affect housing choices. Overall, the market is relatively stable with slow appreciation

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

96

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

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

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with some deductions and exemptions available

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

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 conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Traffic and transportation, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Rochester has limited public transportation options, but the town's rural setting and sidewalks make it relatively stroller-friendly, with some parks and playgrounds accessible by foot or bike

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Bristol County Agricultural High School's farm and petting zoo
  • 🎯
    Rochester Town Beach
  • 🎯
    and the Mattapoisett River Reserve

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of historic homes and new constructions, with easy access to schools, parks, and local amenities. The area around the town beach and river reserve is also popular for families, with scenic views and outdoor recreation opportunities

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Rochester has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and environmental conservation, which are enforced by the town’s planning and inspection departments

Rochester's economy is driven by a mix of industries, including healthcare, education, and technology, with a growing trend towards remote work and entrepreneurship. The town's affordable housing and natural amenities make it an attractive option for families and professionals

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📊 Rochester — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Rochester fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and higher heating oil costs in the winter. However, the town's moderate climate and energy-efficient buildings help mitigate these fluctuations

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02770 has a property tax millage rate of 1.23, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Rochester's rural setting and limited sidewalks in some areas can make it challenging for stroller navigation, but the town's parks, playgrounds, and scenic trails provide ample opportunities for family-friendly outdoor activities

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