Let the numbers do the talking.
Cambridge, MA vs Waltham, MA
Cambridge, MA vs Waltham, MA: What the data shows
Cambridge, MA is in Cambridge, MA while Waltham, MA is in Waltham, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Waltham, MA is the more affordable option at $677,700 median — $349,600 less than Cambridge, MA's $1,027,300. WYLT rates Cambridge, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Waltham, 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. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cambridge, MA has Low flood risk and Waltham, MA has Low flood risk.
Cambridge, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Cambridge, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Waltham, MA's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waltham, MA has the higher school rating — Cambridge, MA rates 7.5/10 and Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Cambridge, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $1.03M | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $117K | $118K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 11 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 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 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Tech professionalsStudentsYoung families | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
For a tech professional or young family with no car, Cambridge is the clear choice due to its walkability and top-rated schools. However, if you're a commuter to Boston and prioritize a reliable, family-friendly environment, Waltham might be a better fit despite its limitations. Cambridge is the superior option for those who value convenience and access to amenities, but Waltham offers a more affordable and stable alternative.
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