Sterling, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Sterling, MA Utility & Living Guide

Sterling is a town in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. The population was 7,985 at the 2020 census.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Sterling
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Sterling 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 Sterling is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and new constructions. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and organizations. Home prices have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 0% (no additional local sales 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

7.2/10

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 including healthcare, education, and small businesses
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, education, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Sterling has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Sterling Town Beach
  • 🎯
    Sterling Library
  • 🎯
    Wachusett Reservoir

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to local amenities and schools. The area around the Sterling Town Beach is also popular for its scenic views and outdoor activities.

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📊 Sterling — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Sterling tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with an average increase of 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a slight decrease in utility costs, with more moderate temperatures reducing the need for air conditioning.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01564 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no additional local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6: Sterling has some sidewalks and crosswalks, but the town's rural atmosphere and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with strollers to get around without a car.

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