Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Upton, MA
Brookline, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, 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 — $608,400 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookline, MA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Upton, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookline, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.15M | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $104K |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 19/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For families considering a move to the greater Boston area, we recommend Settling here in Upton, MA over Brookline. Upton offers lower costs and better walkability, making it a more practical choice for families on a budget. For affluent professionals and those seeking top-rated schools, however, Brookline's shorter commute and strong community may outweigh its higher costs.
Share this comparison