Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs New Bedford, MA
Boston, MA vs New Bedford, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while New Bedford, MA is in New Bedford, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, New Bedford, MA is the more affordable option at $280,000 median — $722,700 less than Boston, MA's $1,002,700. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and New Bedford, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Boston, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. New Bedford, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and New Bedford, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus New Bedford, MA's 22/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boston, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and New Bedford, MA rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | New Bedford, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1M | $280K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $74K ✓ Higher income | $52K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 22/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 76 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | budget familiesremote workersseaside lovers |
Bottom line
For young professionals, students, and those who prioritize convenience and amenities, Boston's 02118 area may be worth considering for a short-term or transitional period. However, families or individuals who need affordable housing and prioritize a lower cost of living may find New Bedford a more suitable long-term option. Ultimately, if budget isn't a major concern, Boston offers a more vibrant lifestyle, but if affordability and a beach lifestyle are key, New Bedford is the more practical choice.
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