Let the numbers do the talking.
Back Bay, MA vs Plymouth, MA
Back Bay, MA vs Plymouth, MA: What the data shows
Back Bay, MA is in Back Bay, MA while Plymouth, MA is in Plymouth, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Plymouth, MA is the more affordable option at $461,500 median — $999,600 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 Plymouth, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Back Bay, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Plymouth, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Back Bay, MA has Low flood risk and Plymouth, MA has Low flood risk.
Back Bay, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Back Bay, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Plymouth, MA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Plymouth, MA has the higher school rating — Back Bay, MA rates 7.5/10 and Plymouth, MA rates 8/10.
| Category | Back Bay, MA | Plymouth, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $462K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $132K ✓ Higher income | $107K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudents and recent gradsNightlife and dining enthusiasts | FamiliesSuburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional looking for a vibrant city experience, Back Bay may be your best bet, but be prepared for sky-high costs and tiny spaces. Families and retirees, however, might find Plymouth's stronger schools and more affordable homes a better compromise for a more suburban lifestyle with access to Boston through its decent commute. Ultimately, Plymouth is the more family-friendly option.
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