Let the numbers do the talking.
Beacon Hill, MA vs Newton, MA
Beacon Hill, MA vs Newton, MA: What the data shows
Beacon Hill, MA is in Beacon Hill, 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 — $702,100 less than Beacon Hill, MA's $1,673,800. WYLT rates Beacon Hill, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Newton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Beacon Hill, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Newton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Beacon Hill, MA has Low flood risk and Newton, MA has Low flood risk.
Beacon Hill, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Beacon Hill, 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 — Beacon Hill, MA rates 7.5/10 and Newton, MA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Beacon Hill, MA | Newton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.67M | $972K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $170K ✓ Higher income | $134K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 32/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 44/100 |
| Bike Score | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable | 36/100 |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 15 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A | A |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | High‑earning professionalsRemote workers who value downtown proximityRetirees seeking low crime and walkability | FamiliesCommuters to BostonHigh income professionals |
Bottom line
If you're a high-earning professional, remote worker, or retiree and prioritize a luxurious, walkable downtown lifestyle, settle here in Beacon Hill. If you're a family or commuter seeking top-rated schools and a quieter, more affordable suburban setting, Newton is a better bet. Ultimately, the better choice for you depends on which trade-offs you're willing to make between urban charm and lower living costs.
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