Let the numbers do the talking.
Cambridge, MA vs Dover, MA
Cambridge, MA vs Dover, MA: What the data shows
Cambridge, MA is in Cambridge, MA while Dover, MA is in Dover, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dover, MA is the more affordable option at $640,000 median — $387,300 less than Cambridge, MA's $1,027,300. WYLT rates Cambridge, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Dover, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Cambridge, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Dover, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Cambridge, MA has Low flood risk and Dover, MA has Low flood risk.
Cambridge, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cambridge, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Dover, MA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Cambridge, MA rates 7.5/10 and Dover, MA rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Cambridge, MA | Dover, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.03M | $640K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $93K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 11 min ✓ Shorter commute | 33 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | Tech professionalsStudentsYoung families | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersCommuters to Boston |
Bottom line
For tech professionals and young families who prioritize walkability and a fast-paced lifestyle, Cambridge is the better choice. However, for families with kids who value a safe, quiet suburban setting and are willing to trade off some lifestyle for a more affordable home in a good school district, Dover is the way to go. Overall, Cambridge offers a unique experience that may suit some individuals, but Dover's combination of affordability, safety, and quality of life makes it a more practical long-term choice.
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