Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Jamaica Plain, MA
Boston, MA vs Jamaica Plain, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Jamaica Plain, MA is in Jamaica Plain, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Jamaica Plain, MA is the more affordable option at $729,600 median — $273,100 less than Boston, MA's $1,002,700. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Jamaica Plain, 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. Jamaica Plain, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Jamaica Plain, MA has Low flood risk.
Jamaica Plain, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Jamaica Plain, MA's 67/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Jamaica Plain, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Jamaica Plain, MA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Jamaica Plain, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1M | $730K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $74K | $115K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 | 67/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 33/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 40/100 |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 16 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | Young professionalsFamilies with childrenPet owners |
Bottom line
For young professionals and students, Boston's 02118 area is a better fit due to its prime location and convenient transit options, although it comes with a hefty price tag. Families with children may prefer Jamaica Plain, which offers solid schools and a more suburban atmosphere at a lower cost. Ultimately, consider your priorities and budget carefully before deciding between these two neighborhoods.
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