Let the numbers do the talking.
Dover, MA vs Malden, MA
Dover, MA vs Malden, MA: What the data shows
Dover, MA is in Dover, MA while Malden, MA is in Malden, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Malden, MA is the more affordable option at $570,600 median — $69,400 less than Dover, MA's $640,000. WYLT rates Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Malden, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Dover, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Dover, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Malden, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dover, MA has Low flood risk and Malden, MA has Low flood risk.
Malden, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dover, MA scores N/A/100 versus Malden, MA's 63/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Dover, MA has the higher school rating — Dover, MA rates 7.5/10 and Malden, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Dover, MA | Malden, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $640K | $571K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $93K ✓ Higher income | $90K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 63/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 48/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 33 min | 13 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| 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 | commutersfamiliesyoung professionals |
Bottom line
If you're a family with kids, Dover is the better choice due to its strong schools and safe, quiet environment. For young professionals and those prioritizing a more urban lifestyle with easy access to Boston, Malden might be a better fit because of its shorter commute and slightly lower cost of living. Ultimately, both neighborhoods offer advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice will depend on individual priorities.
Share this comparison