Let the numbers do the talking.
Back Bay, MA vs Quincy, MA
Back Bay, MA vs Quincy, MA: What the data shows
Back Bay, MA is in Back Bay, MA while Quincy, MA is in Quincy, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Quincy, MA is the more affordable option at $513,300 median — $947,800 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 Quincy, 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. Quincy, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Back Bay, MA has Low flood risk and Quincy, MA has High flood risk.
Back Bay, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Back Bay, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Quincy, MA's 71/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Back Bay, MA rates 7.5/10 and Quincy, MA rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Back Bay, MA | Quincy, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $513K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $132K ✓ Higher income | $86K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 71/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 58/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 40/100 |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 19 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudents and recent gradsNightlife and dining enthusiasts | Young professionalsPublic transit usersFamilies with kids |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional who values a high-energy downtown lifestyle and doesn't mind a cramped living space, Back Bay might be the better choice. However, for those prioritizing space and affordability, Quincy offers a good balance of walkability and commute access without the same level of financial strain. In general, Quincy is a safer bet for families and commuters looking for a quieter alternative to the Back Bay.
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