Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Lowell, MA
Brookline, MA vs Lowell, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while Lowell, MA is in Lowell, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Lowell, MA is the more affordable option at $398,900 median — $749,500 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Lowell, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Brookline, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookline, MA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lowell, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Lowell, MA has Low flood risk.
Lowell, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Lowell, MA's 20/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookline, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Lowell, MA rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Lowell, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.15M | $399K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $79K |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 20/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | 14/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 3/100 |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 41 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.2/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers | commutersstudentsfamilies |
Bottom line
Based on its strong schools, short commute, and affluent amenities, Brookline is ideal for families with children, professionals commuting to Boston, and high-income earners who prioritize those features and can afford the high cost of living. For those seeking a more affordable option with decent schools, a shorter commute is less crucial, and urban noise isn't a concern, Lowell may be a slightly more practical choice. Ultimately, though, Lowell's higher taxes and rising home prices make it a 'good for now' rather than a 'settle here' neighborhood.
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