South Dartmouth, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

South Dartmouth, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in South Dartmouth offers a tranquil coastal experience with easy access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$380,000
🌤️ Live Weather — South Dartmouth
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — South Dartmouth
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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

Town of Dartmouth Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in South Dartmouth is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for coastal properties. Rentals are scarce, and prices are higher than in some surrounding areas. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

103

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<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

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, coastal erosion, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit in South Dartmouth is limited, but the town has a walkable downtown area and bike-friendly roads.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust
  • 🎯
    Round the Bend Farm
  • 🎯
    Lloyd Center for the Environment

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The villages of Padanaram and Smith Neck are popular with families, offering a mix of historic homes, parks, and access to the beach. The area around Dartmouth High School is also desirable, with newer homes and a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

South Dartmouth has regulations regarding coastal development, zoning, and historic preservation.

South Dartmouth is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its desirable location and growing population. The local economy is expected to continue growing, with a focus on tourism, healthcare, and technology.

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📊 South Dartmouth — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in South Dartmouth fluctuate significantly with the seasons, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher heating oil bills in the winter. However, the town's mild coastal climate means that extreme temperatures are rare.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 02748 has a property tax millage rate of 12.34, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to get around with a stroller, although some areas may have limited elevator access in older buildings.

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