Let the numbers do the talking.
Cambridge, MA vs Medford, MA
Cambridge, MA vs Medford, MA: What the data shows
Cambridge, MA is in Cambridge, MA while Medford, MA is in Medford, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Medford, MA is the more affordable option at $669,600 median — $357,700 less than Cambridge, MA's $1,027,300. WYLT rates Cambridge, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Medford, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Cambridge, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Medford, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cambridge, MA has Low flood risk and Medford, MA has Low flood risk.
Cambridge, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cambridge, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Medford, MA's 58/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Cambridge, MA has the higher school rating — Cambridge, MA rates 7.5/10 and Medford, MA rates 7.4/10.
| Category | Cambridge, MA | Medford, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.03M | $670K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $115K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 58/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 50/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 60/100 |
| Commute | 11 min | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.4/10 |
| Best for | Tech professionalsStudentsYoung families | FamiliesCommutersProfessionals |
Bottom line
If affordability is a top priority, Medford is a better option since it offers a lower cost of housing and living. However, Cambridge edges out Medford for its unbeatable walkability, top-rated schools, and a faster commute to Boston, making it ideal for tech professionals, students, and young families who value convenience above cost. For families and commuters who don't mind sacrificing some walkability and convenience for a lower price, Medford is a more accessible choice.
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