Spencer, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Spencer, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Spencer, MA offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: September 4, 2026
Total Utilities$260/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Spencer
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Spencer's economy is driven by small businesses and local industries, with a growing trend towards remote work and entrepreneurship. The town is also investing in downtown revitalization efforts to attract new businesses and residents.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Spencer
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$130/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$40/mo

Spencer Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$260/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Spencer is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The town has seen some new construction in recent years, but prices remain competitive. Rentals are also available, but may be limited in certain areas.

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 6.25% + 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

55

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 Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including healthcare, education, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Spencer has a limited public transportation system, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Spencer State Forest
  • 🎯
    Wells State Park
  • 🎯
    and the Spencer Public Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Smithville and Wire Village, are popular with families due to their walkability, parks, and community events. The town also has some newer developments with more modern amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Spencer has regulations regarding zoning, building permits, and waste management, which are enforced by the town’s departments.

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📊 Spencer — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Spencer tend to be higher in the winter due to heating needs, with average monthly electric bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In the summer, costs are relatively stable, with some increase in water usage due to lawn care and outdoor activities.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01562 has a property tax millage rate of 23.45, with no local surtaxes specific to Spencer or Worcester County.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Spencer has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's infrastructure is not entirely geared towards families with young children, with some areas lacking elevator access or having limited public transportation options.

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