Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Westborough, MA
Boston, MA vs Westborough, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Westborough, MA is in Westborough, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Westborough, MA is the more affordable option at $530,000 median — $931,100 less than Boston, MA's $1,461,100. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Westborough, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westborough, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Westborough, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Westborough, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Westborough, MA's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boston, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Westborough, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Westborough, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.46M | $530K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $132K ✓ Higher income | $108K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 30/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 34/100 |
| Commute | 6 min ✓ Shorter commute | 79 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 | Families with young childrenThose seeking a traditional suburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston with a car |
Bottom line
Boston’s 02116 delivers walkable, transit‑ready city living at a premium price, ideal for young professionals or those who value convenience and an urban vibe. Westborough offers a quieter, more affordable suburban setting with good schools, but it requires a car and a long commute. Choose Boston if you prioritize urban convenience over cost, or Westborough if you want a lower‑priced, family‑friendly suburb with a longer commute.
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