Wellesley, MA Utility & Living Guide

⚡ Featured Deal

Essentials for Your New Home

🛒 Shop This Deal Now

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tier 3 Location

Wellesley, MA Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$380/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6.25%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$840,000
📷 Live Cameras — Wellesley
Live camera
Live · refreshing...
🌤️ Live Weather — Wellesley
Loading weather...
🚨 City In The News
The town of Wellesley has taken a significant step in pushing back against the state's plans to develop a parking lot owned by Mass Bay Community College into 180 homes, filing a lawsuit to halt the project. For those considering relocating to Wellesley, this move speaks to the town's commitment to managing growth and preserving its character. Wellesley is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and beautiful surroundings, but it also comes with a hefty price tag, with a cost of living that is notably higher than the national average. The proposed development would have likely put additional pressure on the town's infrastructure and services, potentially altering the very things that make Wellesley an attractive place to live. By taking a stand against the state's plans, the town is demonstrating its dedication to balancing progress with preservation, which is sure to be a key factor for individuals and families weighing their options for a new home. As the situation unfolds, it will be important to watch how Wellesley navigates the challenges of growth and development, making it a town worth keeping an eye on for anyone interested in relocating to a community that values its unique character.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Wellesley
Loading hazard data...
💼 Calculate Your Future Retirement Income

Moving Your Assets to Wellesley?

Moving to Wellesley? Find out how much retirement income you could generate based on your current savings, age, and goals. Calculate Your Retirement Income → Free · Takes 2 minutes · No personal data required
💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Eversource Energy
🔥 Gas

$80/mo

National Grid
💧 Water

$50/mo

Wellesley Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Wellesley Department of Public Works
📶 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$840,000
Property Tax Rate1.23%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Wellesley is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes, new construction, and condominiums. The town has a strong demand for housing, driven by its excellent schools and convenient location. As a result, prices tend to be higher than in surrounding communities.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

118

Transportation

94

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6.25%
Property Tax Rate1.23%
<p>State 5.2% + None + Local 1.05%</p>

Massachusetts has a flat state income tax rate of 5.2%, with no local income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

9.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

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

Wellesley has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and commuter rail stations, but some areas may require more walking or driving.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Wellesley College
  • 🎯
    Wellesley Recreation Department
  • 🎯
    Boston Children's Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Wellesley include Wellesley Hills, Wellesley Square, and the area around the town center, which offer a mix of historic homes, parks, and community amenities. These neighborhoods are highly sought after for their excellent schools, safe streets, and strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

Find Another City Guide

Search by city name or ZIP code to find utility costs, housing data and cost of living guides.

📊 Wellesley — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Wellesley tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility bills, with average costs decreasing by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The town of Wellesley has a property tax rate of 1.23%, with no local surtaxes. The ZIP code 02481 has a median property tax bill of $10,000 per year.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and elevators at most public buildings, but some areas may require more walking or driving due to limited public transit options.

📍 Wellesley City Stories

Wellesley, Massachusetts — Wellesley sues state over plans to build housing on a parkin

The town of Wellesley has taken a significant step in pushing back against the state's plans to develop...

Read more →
📰 Latest MA Stories
Massachusetts Living Report — July 27, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 27, 2026

With a population just shy of seven million, Massachusetts presents a classic trade-off for anyone considering a move:...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 26, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 26, 2026

Considering a move to Massachusetts means weighing its reputation for top-tier education and historic charm against a notoriously...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 25, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 25, 2026

For anyone considering a move to Massachusetts, the state presents a compelling but costly proposition. Home to nearly...

Read more →
Massachusetts Living Report — July 24, 2026

Massachusetts Living Report — July 24, 2026

With a population of just under seven million—6,984,205 to be precise—Massachusetts is one of the most densely populated...

Read more →
Amazon

Get your home essentials, storage, and moving supplies delivered.

Shop Moving Essentials

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.