Cost of living in Waltham
Waltham, located in Massachusetts, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and proximity to Boston. Understanding the cost of living in Waltham is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to the area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including housing, dining, transportation, and more, to help you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $21 on average, with a range between $15 and $50.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $110, with prices ranging from $70 to $200.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $12, with a range between $10 and $15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $4 to $12, imported beer $6 to $13, cappuccino $4 to $8, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.7 and $1.85 per liter, averaging $1.33.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.98 and $6.01, with an average price of $3.46.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.07 to $8, averaging $4.4.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.18 to $8 per kg, while oranges range from $2.6 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.76 and $6.61 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.69 to $3.99 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $2.25, with a monthly pass priced at $60.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.82 and $1.06 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.7, with a cost of $1.74 per km and $28 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $2700.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $2500.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3200 to $5400, averaging $4300.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $5000.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $122.78 and $400, averaging $200.87.
- Internet - Internet services range from $45 to $125, with an average cost of $59.17.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Waltham presents a relatively high cost of living, particularly in housing and dining. Rent prices are notably high, especially for larger apartments in the city centre.
Transportation costs are moderate, with affordable public transport options. However, owning a car can add to expenses due to fuel prices.
Grocery prices vary, with some items like bread and eggs being more expensive. Planning and budgeting can help manage these costs effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Waltham offers a vibrant lifestyle with a cost of living that reflects its proximity to Boston and its amenities.
Prospective residents should be prepared for higher housing costs and consider budgeting for dining and groceries. Despite these costs, Waltham's rich history and community make it an attractive place to live.