Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Waltham, MA
Brookline, MA vs Waltham, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while Waltham, MA is in Waltham, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waltham, MA is the more affordable option at $677,700 median — $470,700 less than Brookline, MA's $1,148,400. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Waltham, 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. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Waltham, MA has Low flood risk.
Brookline, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Waltham, MA's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waltham, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.15M | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $118K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 26/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 17 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 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 | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with childrenProfessionals commuting to BostonAffluent buyers | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
If you're a high-income family with a strong preference for top-rated schools and a short commute to Boston, Brookline is worth considering despite its high cost of living. However, if you prioritize affordability and are willing to commute a bit longer, Waltham could be a more budget-friendly option. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your individual needs and priorities.
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