Wakefield, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Wakefield, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Wakefield, MA offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to big-city amenities just outside of Boston

Last updated: September 3, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$440,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Wakefield
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Wakefield is seeing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Boston and the tech industry. However, this growth is also putting pressure on the town's infrastructure and housing market.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Wakefield
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

National Grid
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Wakefield Municipal Light Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$380/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$440,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Wakefield is highly competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The town has seen significant development in recent years, with many new condos and apartments being built. However, prices remain relatively high due to the town’s desirable location and strong school system.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% 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 5.2% + No county 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

60

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 tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, school funding
🚌 Transit for Families

Wakefield has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains connecting to Boston

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lake Quannapowitt
  • 🎯
    Wakefield Town Hall
  • 🎯
    Breakheart Reservation

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Greenwood and Montrose, are popular with families due to their walkability and access to amenities. The town's many parks and playgrounds are also a major draw.

Household Budget Calculator

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

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📊 Wakefield — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Wakefield tend to be higher in the winter due to heating costs, with the average household paying around $200-300 per month for gas and electricity. In the summer, costs are lower, but can still be around $150-200 per month due to air conditioning usage.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 01880 has a property tax millage rate of 12.34, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and elevators in most public buildings, but some areas with limited stroller access due to older infrastructure

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