Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Waltham, MA
Boston, MA vs Waltham, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, 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 — $783,400 less than Boston, MA's $1,461,100. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Waltham, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Waltham, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, 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 — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $132K ✓ Higher income | $118K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFamilies with school‑goers | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
If walkability, transit access, and a vibrant urban feel are top priorities, 02116 offers the best fit despite its high price and noise. If you’re willing to commute 27 minutes and prefer a more car‑centric, family‑friendly community with solid schools at a lower price point, Waltham is the better choice. The decision hinges on whether convenience outweighs cost and noise.
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