Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Upton, MA
Boston, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, 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 Boston, MA's $1,461,100. WYLT rates Boston, 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. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boston, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Boston, 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 professionalsStudentsFamilies with school‑goers | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional, student, or family that values a vibrant urban lifestyle, Boston's 02116 neighborhood is a solid choice, offering walkability, a strong school system, and easy access to Boston. For families and commuters who prioritize convenience and reasonable housing costs, Upton, MA is a better fit, with highly-rated schools, a shorter commute, and more affordable housing. Ultimately, Upton's quieter suburban setting and easier parking make it a more laid-back option overall.
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