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 — $854,600 less than Brookline, MA's $1,140,600. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — 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 Low 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.
Brookline, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 86/100 (very walkable) 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 | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.14M | $286K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | N/A |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $21K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 86/100 ✓ More walkable | 58/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 | 49/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 51/100 | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute | 20 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ 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 | FamiliesWorking professionalsStudents and academics | Low‑income buyersStudents or young professionals needing cheap housingCommuters who can tolerate higher crime |
Bottom line
For those looking for a convenient, walkable community with great schools and high-quality amenities, Brookline is a good choice. If budget is a significant concern or if you're looking for an affordable entry point, Lynn may be tolerable, although its serious issues with crime and flood risk make it a riskier option. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on your priorities and what you're willing to compromise on.
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