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

Out of 19 communities in the area, Weston'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 Weston Board of Selectmen voted on the 2013 rate at a tax classification hearing last month. The residential and commercial/industrial rate is $12.40 per $1,000 of assessed value. With Weston's average home assessment of about $1.3 million, that means the average tax bill will come in at about $16,000.

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 Weston 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, and is the most expensive in the state, according to a recent report from Coldwell Banker.

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.