Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookline, MA vs Newton, MA
Brookline, MA vs Newton, MA: What the data shows
Brookline, MA is in Brookline, MA while Newton, MA is in Newton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Newton, MA is the more affordable option at $971,700 median — $168,900 less than Brookline, MA's $1,140,600. WYLT rates Brookline, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Newton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Brookline, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Newton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Brookline, MA has Low flood risk and Newton, MA has Low flood risk.
Brookline, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookline, MA scores 86/100 (very walkable) versus Newton, MA's 32/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Newton, MA has the higher school rating — Brookline, MA rates 7.5/10 and Newton, MA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Brookline, MA | Newton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.14M | $972K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K | $134K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 86/100 ✓ More walkable | 32/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 | 44/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 51/100 ✓ More bikeable | 36/100 |
| Commute | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute | 15 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A | A |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesWorking professionalsStudents and academics | FamiliesCommuters to BostonHigh income professionals |
Bottom line
For families and high-income professionals, Newton (Settle here) is a slightly more desirable choice due to its excellent schools and even quieter atmosphere, despite its steep cost of living. Brookline (Good for now), with its more walkable streets and shorter commute, may be a better fit for individuals with less space to spare or those who prefer a more urban feel. In both cases, Boston's convenience comes at a price; weigh your priorities carefully before making a decision.
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