Let the numbers do the talking.
Dover, MA vs Lynn, MA
Dover, MA vs Lynn, MA: What the data shows
Dover, MA is in Dover, MA while Lynn, MA is in Lynn, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Lynn, MA is the more affordable option at $286,000 median — $354,000 less than Dover, MA's $640,000. WYLT rates Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Lynn, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Dover, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dover, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Lynn, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Dover, MA has Low flood risk and Lynn, MA has High flood risk.
Lynn, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dover, MA scores N/A/100 versus Lynn, MA's 58/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Dover, MA has the higher school rating — Dover, MA rates 7.5/10 and Lynn, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Dover, MA | Lynn, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $640K | $286K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | N/A |
| Median Income | $93K ✓ Higher income | $21K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 58/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 49/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 33 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersCommuters to Boston | Low‑income buyersStudents or young professionals needing cheap housingCommuters who can tolerate higher crime |
Bottom line
Dover is the better choice for families and those prioritizing safety, excellent schools, and a quiet suburban lifestyle, despite its higher median home price. Lynn may be a more suitable option for low-income buyers, students, or young professionals who need an affordable entry point to the Boston area and are willing to tolerate its drawbacks. Ultimately, Dover's strengths make it a stronger overall choice for most people.
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