Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Springfield, MA
Boston, MA vs Springfield, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Springfield, MA is in Springfield, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Springfield, MA is the more affordable option at $200,000 median — $802,700 less than Boston, MA's $1,002,700. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Springfield, 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. Springfield, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Springfield, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Springfield, MA's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boston, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Springfield, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1M | $200K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $74K ✓ Higher income | $60K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 20/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 111 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 | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | budget familiesstudentscommuters |
Bottom line
For someone who values high-quality schools, great transit options, and a lively atmosphere but is concerned about high costs, Boston's 02118 area may be suitable for a short-term stay or a long-term commitment with a very large budget. For families on a budget, retirees, or students looking for affordable housing with decent schools but longer commutes, Springfield might be worth considering. Overall, neither neighborhood is ideal, but Boston is better for those who prioritize convenience and quality of life, while Springfield is a more budget-friendly option.
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