Waltham, MA Utility & Living Guide

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Waltham, MA Utility & Living Guide

Living in Waltham, MA offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living with a strong sense of community.

Last updated: September 3, 2026
Total Utilities$370/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index118 (+18% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$440,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Waltham
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Waltham is experiencing a surge in tech industry growth, with many startups and established companies setting up shop in the city. This has led to an increase in job opportunities and a growing demand for housing and amenities.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Waltham
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🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Waltham Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Waltham Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$370/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$440,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Waltham is highly competitive, with a mix of old and new homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The city has seen significant development in recent years, with new apartments and condos being built. However, this has also led to increased prices and a shortage of affordable housing options.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

118

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+18% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<p>State 5.2% + No County tax + Local 1.05% option 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

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, biotech, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, public transportation
🚌 Transit for Families

Waltham has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas can be challenging to navigate with a stroller due to narrow sidewalks and lack of elevators

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Waltham Public Library
  • 🎯
    Prospect Hill Park
  • 🎯
    Charles River Museum of Industry

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods of Waltham Highlands, Prospect Hill, and Moody Street are popular with families, offering a mix of housing options, parks, and community amenities. These areas are also close to schools, shops, and restaurants, making them ideal for families with young children.

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

📰 Live Local News

Waltham has regulations in place for zoning, parking, and noise ordinances, and residents are encouraged to recycle and participate in community clean-up events

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📊 Waltham — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Waltham can fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning and higher gas costs in the winter due to heating. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during these peak months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The city of Waltham has a property tax rate of 1.35%, with no local surtaxes. However, residents in certain ZIP codes may be subject to additional taxes or fees, such as the 02451 ZIP code which has a slightly higher tax rate due to local improvements

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, Waltham has a relatively high stroller-friendly score due to its wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and family-friendly amenities, but some areas can be challenging to navigate due to narrow streets and lack of elevators in older buildings

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