How to Navigate the Cost of Living in Quincy

Quincy, Massachusetts, is increasingly becoming popular for individuals looking for more affordable living outside Boston. However, Quincy’s living cost can be daunting for some, especially for people who recently relocated or those on a tight budget. 

Understanding how to navigate Quincy, MA, cost of living is crucial for anyone looking to settle and enjoy this vibrant town in Bay State. From food expenses to housing costs and transportation, you’ll have to consider some factors when moving to this scenic town. 

This article explores vital tips and tricks to help you navigate the living cost in this scenic town and live without breaking the bank. But before we dive in, let’s discover if Quincy, MA is a great place to live.

Is Quincy, MA, a Good Place to Live

If you’ve been asking, Is Quincy, MA a good place to live, the answer depends on whether it ticks your boxes regarding factors that improve the cost of living. 

The city’s cost of living is like the rest of Boston’s immediate suburbs. Quincy is located close to Boston to the south, and this proximity makes it desirable for people intending to move to Bay State. 

Therefore, there’s higher demand, and like the rest of Boston’s surrounding cities, its price has increased over the last decade.

However, rents are cheaper compared to surrounding areas. The following are why Quincy, MA, is a good place to live:

• Affordable Healthcare Access

Massachusetts ranks number 2 in overall healthcare affordability and access compared to other states. Since healthcare costs are a huge part of living costs, the ability to access and afford health is the key indicator of the amount you’ll pay for it.

Affordability is measured by the state insurance coverage rate and out-of-pocket expenses you’ll pay when receiving the care. Healthcare access is how difficult or easy receiving healthcare might be.  

Easy access to healthcare is measured by identifying factors that may prevent healthcare delivery, including the ability to get insurance coverage, lack of sufficient facilities or/and healthcare professionals, and the distances to healthcare centers. 

How fast you can access a healthcare provider (the timeliness of healthcare) is another essential measure for determining Quincy’s healthcare system.

• Affordable Home Prices

Quincy and the rest of Massachusetts offer one of the biggest residential home markets in the US. However, buying a house in Quincy can be complex and lengthy. 

Besides the 15%-20% down payment, you’ll also need to consider the closing costs. If you have an existing home, you need to complete the home sale before moving. 

There’s also home insurance, property taxes, maintenance costs, and utility to consider as they contribute to your living cost. 

The median household income in Quincy is $85,041, while the median home price is $594,996, a 2.2% increase from last year’s price. If you’re considering renting instead of buying a home, the average rent in Quincy, MA, is $2,613, according to Rentcafe. However, the amount depends on factors like quality, size, and location. 

• Energy and Utilities

Energy costs are one thing that affects the cost of living in Quincy. However, the utility cost fluctuates depending on the weather condition. 

Massachusetts is one of the states with the worst winter weather. Strong winds, storms, bitterly cold temperatures, and snow might force residents to stay indoors for days. 

The winter weather can increase energy costs, leading to a higher living cost than in places with a milder climate. Therefore, you’ll likely pay more for utility during the winter months.

Quincy, MA Cost of Living

According to Salary.com, Quincy, MA’s cost of living went up by 2.5% this year, with the increase reflected in housing, food, and transportation. 

While $7.25 is the federal minimum wage per hour, Massachusetts minimum wage is at $14.25 per hour this year.

The average living cost in Quincy is $2,089, while Quincy, MA, water bill is $7.44 per 100 cubic feet. Also, the average water bill in Quincy, MA, is $34 per month. 

You can use a cost of living calculator to check further to get a near estimate of the figures, helping you plan adequately.

How to Enjoy Low Cost of Living in Quincy

The following are ways to enjoy a lower cost of living in Quincy, MA:

1. Sell Unwanted Items

If you have items you aren’t using, it’s best to declutter them and use the money to sort out a few important issues at home. You can do backyard sales or sell your items through popular online websites and platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.

2. Budgeting and Direct Debits

Whether in a high-living cost area or not, it’s best to budget and track how much you’re spending and where you’re spending it. You can track your spending manually or with a budgeting app. Check your monthly expenditures and categorize them from food and transport to utilities and housing (mortgages or rents). 

Once you’ve discovered where you’re spending your money, you can adjust your expenses where necessary. You can keep track of your spending by paying for essential bills by direct debit.

3. Be Energy Efficient

With high electricity and gas costs predicted to increase further, you need to be energy efficient in your Quincy home. To reduce energy costs, turn off appliances on standby mode, switch off your lights when going out, and invest in draught-proof windows and doors. 

Also, set the thermostat a few degrees higher during summer and lower in the winter to significantly reduce cooling and heating costs.

The gas prices in Quincy, MA, range from $3.19 to $3.89 compared to Boston’s $3.49 to $4.03.

4. Prepare Meals in Large Quantities and Store

While grocery shopping, check all the product costs before going for those with the best prices. Also, go for foods that you can prepare in big batches. 

While you won’t want to eat the same thing all week, you can store your large cooked food in small containers and freeze it for up to a month.

5. Check for Discount Offers

Many Quincy supermarkets offer loyalty cards to regular customers to enable them to collect points for money from future purchases.

Many sites also offer rewards for shoppers, helping to reduce costs or letting their users enjoy cashback on bills, like phone bills.

Top Reasons to Move to Quincy

Quincy allows you to live close to Boston while enjoying the small-town feeling. Located south of Bean Town, this scenic town boasts a diverse economy and a great quality of life. 

The following are the top reasons to move to Quincy with your family:

• Affordable Properties

One of the advantages of living in Quincy is affordable homes. Depending on your preferred property type, you can find one in a close-knit community with great amenities. 

Quincy’s population is over 100,000, a crucial factor national industries and retailers consider when moving to a city. Hence, new sectors and industries keep opening in the town.

The city’s residential landscape is dotted with many historic neighborhoods, with the average home value at $594,996. Also, property taxes are lower at $11.13 for $1,000, meaning Quincy’s cost of living is relatively low.

• Captivating Food Scene

Quincy is home to many food spots, entertainment venues, and bars. From local specialties to locally sourced fresh seafood, the city’s restaurant and nightlife scene thrives on diversity. 

Places like Burke’s Seafood and Tony’s Clam Shop have the best shellfish, fresh fish, and lobsters daily. Restaurants like ALBA offer fine dining, while Pearl & Lime has the best tacos and empanadas.

Besides the tasty dishes, beer barns like The Pour Yard are home to the most delicious cocktails and craft beers.

• Explore the Town’s Rich History

Popularly called the “City of Presidents,” Quincy is the birthplace of John Adams (the second US President) and his son, John Quincy Adams (the sixth US president). 

The Declaration of Independence’s first signer, John Hancock, was also born in this beautiful town. Howard Deering Johnson opened his first ice cream shop in Wollaston, North Quincy before Howard Johnson’s brand became a household name in the hospitality industry.

Other celebrities from Quincy are Oscar-winning actress Ruth Gordon and novelist John Cheever, amongst others.

• Places to Visit

One of the best places to visit in Quincy is the unique national historic site called the Adams National Historical Park. Here, you’ll see the Peacefield House and the Stone Library, housing thousands of priceless personal papers and books from the Adams family. 

You can enjoy your day at Wollaston Beach. Besides its sandy shore and inviting waters, the beach offers beautiful views of Nut Island, Boston, Squantum, and Hough’s Neck.

Go picnicking, hiking, and rock climbing at the Quincy Quarries Reservation, or go sightseeing at Marina Bay.

• Top Rated Schools

Quincy boasts a respectable Public Schools system, ranked among the best school systems in the state. There are two high schools (North Quincy High School and Quincy High School), 12 elementary schools, five middle schools, and private schools, serving families in Quincy with kids under school age. 

According to Niche, Quincy has 9,480 students and a 13:1 student-teacher ratio, making its education system impressive. You’ll also find higher education options like the two-year Quincy College, operated by the city instead of the state, and the Eastern Nazarene College offering four-year liberal arts degrees. 

• Diverse Economy

In the past, Quincy’s economy was centered around agriculture. Presently, the city enjoys a diverse economy due to the many new sectors, including technology, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, food and beverage, education, and construction.

Also, like Somerville, Cambridge, Braintree, and Boston, Quincy is part of the newly launched regional economic development initiative called Life Sciences Corridor.

FAQs

What’s the Average Water Cost in Quincy?

The city of Quincy, MA, water bill cost varies, but the average water bill is $34 monthly. However, your water bill depends on factors like your usage.

What’s the Best Way to Reduce Feeding Costs in Quincy?

Some of the effective ways to reduce feeding costs and save on groceries are to buy food items in bulk, shop at discount grocery stores, and plan your meals. 

You can join a community-supported agriculture program (CSA) or buy from local farmers’ markets.

How Much is Quincy’s Public Transportation Costs?

Transportation prices in Quincy vary depending on the distance and your preferred transportation mode. A bus fare costs about $1.70, while a one-way ride on the subway (the T) is $2.40. 

Also, monthly commuters can request monthly passes.

Are There Free Entertainment Options in Quincy?

Yes! You’ll find lots of free entertainment in Quincy. Walking trails and beaches are available for people looking for outdoor activities. 

Also, the Thomas Crane Public Library offers many free activities and events throughout the year.

Key Takeaways

Over the past few years, Quincy has experienced a massive influx of retirees, young professionals, and digital nomads looking to enjoy the best of the Bay State without the high cost of living associated with popular cities like Boston.

If you’re looking to move to Quincy, you need to learn how to navigate the living cost through budgeting and careful planning to avoid overspending. You must consider factors like food prices, transportation expenses, and housing costs to decide if Quincy is right for you. 

Remember to take advantage of the resources in the bubbly city, like local libraries, public parks, and neighborhood events, to enjoy affordable entertainment, helping you stay connected to the community.

With some resourcefulness and effort, you can successfully navigate Quincy’s living cost and enjoy all it offers.

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If you decide to live in Quincy, you’ll need to learn vital details about the town, including its living costs. While you compare Quincy with other diverse cities surrounding it, you’ll need help getting your dream home when you finally make your decision.

At Ardor Homes Massachusetts, our knowledgeable realtors will help make your dream come true by finding a property that meets your budget and preference in any part of the Bay State. Contact us today to get started searching for your ideal house.