Swampscott, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Swampscott, MA Utility & Living Guide

Swampscott is a town in Essex County, Massachusetts, United States, located 15 miles (24 km) up the coast from Boston in an area known as the North Shore. The population was 15,111 as of the 2020 United States census. A former summer resort on Massachusetts Bay, Swampscott is today a fairly affluent

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$370/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$430,000
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Swampscott Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2000/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Swampscott is highly competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for properties near the beach and commuter rail. The town has a range of housing options, from condos to single-family homes. However, prices can be steep, and inventory is often limited.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 6.25% + No county tax</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with some deductions and exemptions available

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

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

Swampscott has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a commuter rail station, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Swampscott Beach
  • 🎯
    Marblehead Harbor
  • 🎯
    Lynn Shore Drive

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The beachfront neighborhoods, such as Beach Bluff and Phillips Beach, are popular with families, offering easy access to the beach and a strong sense of community. The town center also has a range of family-friendly amenities, including parks and playgrounds.

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📊 Swampscott — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Swampscott can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter for heating. However, the town's coastal location can also lead to higher electricity costs during the summer months due to the demand for cooling.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01907 has a property tax rate of 1.23%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow streets and lack of elevators in some buildings

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