Let the numbers do the talking.
Boston, MA vs Upton, MA
Boston, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Boston, MA is in Boston, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Upton, MA is the more affordable option at $540,000 median — $462,700 less than Boston, MA's $1,002,700. WYLT rates Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Boston, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Boston, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Boston, MA scores 65/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Boston, MA has the higher school rating — Boston, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Boston, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1M | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $74K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 65/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 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 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For young professionals on a tight budget with a high cost of living tolerance, Boston's 02118 area might be a decent option due to its great transit options and lively atmosphere. However, for families or those seeking a more suburban lifestyle, Upton's solid schools, reasonable commute, and lower cost of living make it a superior choice. Ultimately, if affordability is a top priority, settle in Upton, but if high-end amenities and convenience are crucial, Boston might fit the bill.
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