Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Lawrence, MA
Brookline, MA vs Lawrence, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while Lawrence, MA is in Lawrence, MA — both in the same state. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Lawrence, 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 Low property crime. Lawrence, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Lawrence, MA has Low flood risk.
Brookline, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 86/100 (very walkable) versus Lawrence, MA's 25/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookline, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Lawrence, MA rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Lawrence, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.14M | N/A |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $31K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 86/100 ✓ More walkable | 25/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 20/100 |
| Bike Score | 51/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute | 38 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ 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 | FamiliesWorking professionalsStudents and academics | Budget‑conscious familiesCommute to BostonPeople who prefer a suburban feel over urban amenities |
Bottom line
For families who value walkability and convenience, Brookline might be the better choice due to its great schools and easy access to Boston. On the other hand, those with extremely tight budgets may consider Lawrence for its lower cost, but be aware that it comes with drawbacks like high crime and limited amenities. Ultimately, Brookline is more suited for professionals and families willing to pay a premium for a convenient lifestyle, while Lawrence caters to those seeking a more budget-friendly and laid-back community.
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