Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs New Bedford, MA
Brookline, MA vs New Bedford, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while New Bedford, MA is in New Bedford, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, New Bedford, MA is the more affordable option at $280,000 median — $868,400 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and New Bedford, 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. New Bedford, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and New Bedford, MA has Low flood risk.
New Bedford, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus New Bedford, MA's 22/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookline, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and New Bedford, MA rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | New Bedford, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.15M | $280K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $52K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 22/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 76 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers | budget familiesremote workersseaside lovers |
Bottom line
For professionals and families seeking a convenient Boston suburb with top-rated schools, settle in Brookline. If you're on a tight budget, prioritize affordability, look towards New Bedford, but be prepared for less walkability and higher commute times.
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