Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Lynn, MA
Brookline, MA vs Lynn, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while Lynn, MA is in Lynn, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Lynn, MA is the more affordable option at $286,000 median — $862,400 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Lynn, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Brookline, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookline, MA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lynn, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Lynn, MA has High flood risk.
Lynn, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Lynn, MA's 58/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Brookline, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Lynn, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Lynn, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.15M | $286K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | N/A |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $21K |
| Price Volatility | High | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 58/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 26/100 | 49/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 20 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers | Low‑income buyersStudents or young professionals needing cheap housingCommuters who can tolerate higher crime |
Bottom line
For families or affluent professionals, Brookline is the clear choice if you can afford its high cost of living. For low-income buyers or students, Lynn may provide a more affordable entry point, but with significant trade-offs. Ultimately, it's a high-cost luxury for some and a high-risk affordability for others.
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