Let the numbers do the talking.
Cambridge, MA vs Upton, MA
Cambridge, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Cambridge, MA is in Cambridge, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Upton, MA is the more affordable option at $540,000 median — $487,300 less than Cambridge, MA's $1,027,300. WYLT rates Cambridge, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Cambridge, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Cambridge, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Cambridge, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cambridge, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Cambridge, MA has the higher school rating — Cambridge, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Cambridge, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $1.03M | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K ✓ Higher income | $104K |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 11 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 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 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Tech professionalsStudentsYoung families | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
If you're a tech professional, student, young family, or remote worker who can afford the high cost, Cambridge is a better choice for its walkability, top-rated schools, and fast commute to Boston. For families and commuters on a tighter budget who prioritize suburban living, Upton's highly-rated schools and reasonable commute make it a better option. Ultimately, Cambridge offers a more urban lifestyle, while Upton offers a more traditional small-town feel.
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