Somerville, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Somerville, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Somerville, MA offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living with easy access to Boston

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Somerville
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Somerville Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Somerville Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.33%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Somerville is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The city has seen significant development in recent years, with many new condos and apartments being built. However, this has also led to concerns about gentrification and affordability.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

115

Transportation

105

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.33%
<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 tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and gentrification
🚌 Transit for Families

Somerville has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with many bus and train routes that are accessible with a stroller, and the city is also bike-friendly

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Legoland Discovery Center
  • 🎯
    Museum of Science
  • 🎯
    Franklin Park Zoo

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Somerville include Davis Square, Teele Square, and Magoun Square, which offer a mix of parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly amenities. These neighborhoods are also relatively safe and have a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Somerville has regulations around parking, zoning, and waste management, and is also a sanctuary city

Somerville is experiencing a surge in tech industry growth, with many startups and established companies setting up shop in the city. This has led to an increase in demand for housing and office space, and has contributed to the city's economic growth.

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📊 Somerville — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Somerville can increase due to the high demand for air conditioning, while in the winter, costs can rise due to the need for heating. However, the city's relatively mild climate means that these fluctuations are not as extreme as in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The city of Somerville has a property tax rate of 1.33%, with no local surtaxes, and the ZIP codes 02143, 02144, and 02145 have slightly different tax rates due to variations in property values

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8, Somerville has a high score due to its wide sidewalks, many parks and playgrounds, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller, although some areas can be crowded and have limited elevator access in transit

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