Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Newton, MA
Boston, MA vs Newton, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Newton, MA is in Newton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Newton, MA is the more affordable option at $971,700 median — $31,000 less than Boston, MA's $1,002,700. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Newton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Newton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Newton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Newton, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Newton, MA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Newton, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Newton, MA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Newton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1M | $972K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $74K | $134K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 32/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 44/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 36/100 |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 15 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 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | FamiliesCommuters to BostonHigh income professionals |
Bottom line
For a young professional or student, Boston's 02118 area may offer a more vibrant and convenient lifestyle, but its high cost of living and living pressure make it a tougher fit for most people. Families and those seeking a quiet suburban feel with top-rated schools would be better off in Newton, where they can afford the higher price tag. However, if you prioritize proximity to Boston and can't afford Newton's costs, 02118's liveliness might be worth the compromise for an individual.
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