Let the numbers do the talking.
Back Bay, MA vs Newton, MA
Back Bay, MA vs Newton, MA: What the data shows
Back Bay, MA is in Back Bay, MA while Newton, MA is in Newton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Newton, MA is the more affordable option at $971,700 median — $489,400 less than Back Bay, MA's $1,461,100. WYLT rates Back Bay, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Newton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Newton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Back Bay, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Newton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Back Bay, MA has Low flood risk and Newton, MA has Low flood risk.
Back Bay, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Back Bay, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Newton, MA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Newton, MA has the higher school rating — Back Bay, MA rates 7.5/10 and Newton, MA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Back Bay, MA | Newton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $972K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $132K | $134K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 32/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 44/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 36/100 |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 15 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudents and recent gradsNightlife and dining enthusiasts | FamiliesCommuters to BostonHigh income professionals |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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