South Boston, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

South Boston, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in South Boston offers a unique blend of urban convenience and historic charm, with easy access to downtown Boston and a thriving community of young professionals and families

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$2300/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — South Boston
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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

Boston Water and Sewer Commission
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Boston Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$2300/mo
2 Bedrooms$2800/mo
3 Bedrooms$3500/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.33%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in South Boston is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new construction, and a strong demand for rentals and condos. The area is popular with young professionals and families, and prices reflect the high demand. Neighborhoods like Telegraph Hill and City Point offer a range of housing options, from historic brownstones to modern high-rises

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

114

Transportation

104

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.33%
<p>State 5.2% + 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
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, biotech, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic and parking, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

South Boston has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow sidewalks and construction

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Boston Children's Museum
  • 🎯
    Franklin Park Zoo
  • 🎯
    Castle Island

Best Neighborhoods for Families

Telegraph Hill and City Point are popular neighborhoods for families, offering a range of housing options, parks, and community amenities. The area around M Street Park is also a favorite among families, with its playgrounds, sports fields, and community events

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

South Boston has strict zoning laws and regulations regarding parking, noise, and construction, and residents are encouraged to participate in community meetings and planning processes

The current financial trends in South Boston show a strong demand for housing and a growing economy, driven by the tech and biotech industries. However, affordability remains a concern, and the city is working to balance growth with community needs and preservation of affordable housing options

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📊 South Boston — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in South Boston can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter due to heating. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02127 has a property tax millage rate of 1.33, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but some areas can be challenging due to construction and narrow sidewalks

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