Sturbridge, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Sturbridge, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Sturbridge, MA offers a charming and historic small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Sturbridge
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Sturbridge Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Sturbridge is competitive, with a mix of historic homes and newer constructions. The town has seen steady growth in recent years, with many young families and professionals moving to the area. However, affordability can be a challenge, especially for first-time homebuyers.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<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
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Traffic and transportation, affordable housing, preserving historic character
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Old Sturbridge Village
  • 🎯
    Wells State Park
  • 🎯
    Sturbridge Recreation Department

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The town center and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Fiske Hill and Leadmine, offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to parks, schools, and local amenities. However, these areas can be pricey, and families may also consider more affordable options in nearby neighborhoods.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Sturbridge has regulations in place to preserve its historic character, including zoning restrictions and historic district commissions.

Sturbridge is seeing a surge in remote workers and entrepreneurs, drawn to its high quality of life and relatively low cost of living. However, this growth is also putting pressure on the local housing market and infrastructure.

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📊 Sturbridge — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Sturbridge can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher heating oil bills in the winter. However, the town's relatively mild climate means that these fluctuations are not as extreme as in other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01566 has a property tax millage rate of 18.45, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10, with explanation: Sturbridge has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's historic character and limited public transportation options can make it challenging for families with young children to get around without a car.

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