Let the numbers do the talking.
Beacon Hill, MA vs Waltham, MA
Beacon Hill, MA vs Waltham, MA: What the data shows
Beacon Hill, MA is in Beacon Hill, MA while Waltham, MA is in Waltham, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waltham, MA is the more affordable option at $677,700 median — $996,100 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 Waltham, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Beacon Hill, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Beacon Hill, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Beacon Hill, MA has Low flood risk and Waltham, MA has Low flood risk.
Beacon Hill, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Beacon Hill, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Waltham, MA's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waltham, MA has the higher school rating — Beacon Hill, MA rates 7.5/10 and Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Beacon Hill, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.67M | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $170K ✓ Higher income | $118K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | High‑earning professionalsRemote workers who value downtown proximityRetirees seeking low crime and walkability | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
If you're a high-earning professional or remote worker who values downtown Boston proximity, Beacon Hill is the clear choice. It offers unparalleled access to public transportation, dining, and cultural attractions, making the high cost of living a worthwhile investment. For anyone seeking a more affordable option with solid public schools and a stable community, Waltham is a better fit.
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