2013 Tax Rates by Municipality: How Does Newton Compare?

As 2013 begins, property tax rates are increasing for residents across Massachusetts, including in Newton — so how does that compare to surrounding communities?

Out of 18 communities in the area, Newton's 2013 residential tax rate lands among the lower rates, according to rates compiled by Patch through the state Department of Revenue's Division of Local Services.

The Newton Board of Aldermen voted on the 2013 rate at a tax classification hearing last month, . 

Sudbury's 2013 residential tax rate of $17.99 is the highest of the nearby communities. Cambridge continues to levy the lowest residential taxes, with a 2013 rate of $8.66 (Cambridge also adopts a residential exemption).

Boston's commercial tax rate of $31.96 is the highest commercial rate of the communities surveyed, while Wellesley is the lowest with $11.70.

Although Newton may have one of the lower residential tax rates in the area, it is also one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. According to statistics recently gathered by the Warren Group,  

According to a recent report from Coldwell Banker, . 

During the tax classification hearing last month, Director of Assessment Administration Elizabeth Dromey said the average single-family Newton tax bill in fiscal 2012 came to $8,910, which ranks Newton at No. 20 in the state for single-family tax bills (with No. 1 being the most expensive, Weston). 

According to Dromey's report, Newton had the third highest tax levy raised in Massachusetts in fiscal 2012, totaling roughly $250.8 million. Cambridge and Boston were the two highest. 

Check the chart below to see comparisons of tax rates between communities.

2013 Tax Rates By Municipality

Information taken from the state Division of Local Services. In order from lowest residential rate in 2013 to highest. See the attached PDF for more 2013 tax rates as approved by the state.