Let the numbers do the talking.
Cambridge, MA vs Plymouth, MA
Cambridge, MA vs Plymouth, MA: What the data shows
Cambridge, MA is in Cambridge, MA while Plymouth, MA is in Plymouth, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Plymouth, MA is the more affordable option at $461,500 median — $565,800 less than Cambridge, MA's $1,027,300. WYLT rates Cambridge, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Plymouth, 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. Plymouth, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cambridge, MA has Low flood risk and Plymouth, MA has Low flood risk.
Cambridge, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cambridge, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Plymouth, MA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Plymouth, MA has the higher school rating — Cambridge, MA rates 7.5/10 and Plymouth, MA rates 8/10.
| Category | Cambridge, MA | Plymouth, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.03M | $462K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $107K |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ 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 | 60 min |
| 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 | 8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Tech professionalsStudentsYoung families | FamiliesSuburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston |
Bottom line
If you prefer a walkable community with excellent schools and a fast commute, but can afford the high cost of living, Cambridge is a better fit. However, if you prioritize a more affordable option with solid schools and a suburban lifestyle, Plymouth is a reasonable choice. Ultimately, Cambridge offers more amenities but at a steeper price, while Plymouth provides a more laid-back environment at a lower cost.
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