Let the numbers do the talking.
Back Bay, MA vs Upton, MA
Back Bay, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Back Bay, MA is in Back Bay, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Upton, MA is the more affordable option at $540,000 median — $921,100 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 Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Back Bay, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Back Bay, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Back Bay, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Back Bay, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Back Bay, MA has the higher school rating — Back Bay, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Back Bay, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $132K ✓ Higher income | $104K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 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 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudents and recent gradsNightlife and dining enthusiasts | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
If affordability is a top concern and a family-friendly atmosphere is a priority, Upton, MA is the clear choice. For young professionals and those valuing urban convenience, Back Bay, MA is a viable option, but it may not be sustainable long-term due to its prohibitively high cost of living. Ultimately, one's lifestyle and budget will dictate which neighborhood best suits their needs.
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