Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Brookline, MA
Boston, MA vs Brookline, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Boston, MA is the more affordable option at $1,002,700 median — $145,700 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Brookline, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Brookline, MA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Brookline, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Brookline, MA's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Brookline, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1M ✓ Lower price | $1.15M |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $74K | $133K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 18/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 26/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 25/100 |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 17 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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