Let the numbers do the talking.
Brockton, MA vs Malden, MA
Brockton, MA vs Malden, MA: What the data shows
Brockton, MA is in Brockton, MA while Malden, MA is in Malden, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Brockton, MA is the more affordable option at $376,800 median — $193,800 less than Malden, MA's $570,600. WYLT rates Brockton, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Malden, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Malden, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brockton, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. Malden, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brockton, MA has Low flood risk and Malden, MA has Low flood risk.
Malden, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brockton, MA scores 15/100 (car-dependent) versus Malden, MA's 63/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Brockton, MA has the higher school rating — Brockton, MA rates 8/10 and Malden, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brockton, MA | Malden, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $377K ✓ Lower price | $571K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $71K | $90K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 | 63/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 46/100 | 48/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | budget‑conscious commutersfamilies seeking good schoolsstudents | commutersfamiliesyoung professionals |
Bottom line
Brockton is a more affordable option with good schools, ideal for budget-conscious commuters, families, and students who can tolerate a 35-minute commute to Boston and noise. Malden, on the other hand, offers a shorter commute and more amenities, making it better suited for families and young professionals who can handle higher living costs. Overall, Malden's convenience and walkability make it the stronger choice if budget isn't the top priority.
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