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

Out of 27 communities in the area, Reading and North Reading's 2013 residential tax rate lands among the higher rates, according to rates compiled by Patch through the state Department of Revenue's Division of Local Services.

Chelmsford's 2013 residential tax rate of $17.95 is the highest of the communities surveyed. Cambridge continues to levy the lowest residential taxes, with a 2013 rate of $8.66 (Cambridge also adopts a residential exemption).

The average residential tax rate for those communities surveyed was $13.09 in 2012 and has risen to $13.58 for this coming year.

Boston's commercial tax rate of $31.96 is the highest commercial rate of the communities surveyed, while Winchester is the lowest with a rate of $12.01.

Check the chart below to see comparisons 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.