Let the numbers do the talking.
Dover, MA vs Medford, MA
Dover, MA vs Medford, MA: What the data shows
Dover, MA is in Dover, MA while Medford, MA is in Medford, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dover, MA is the more affordable option at $640,000 median — $29,600 less than Medford, MA's $669,600. WYLT rates Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Medford, 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. Medford, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dover, MA has Low flood risk and Medford, MA has Low flood risk.
Medford, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dover, MA scores N/A/100 versus Medford, 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 Medford, MA rates 7.4/10.
| Category | Dover, MA | Medford, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $640K ✓ Lower price | $670K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $93K | $115K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 58/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 50/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 33 min | 10 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 | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.4/10 |
| Best for | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersCommuters to Boston | FamiliesCommutersProfessionals |
Bottom line
For a family with kids, Dover is the clear choice, given its excellent schools and safe suburban environment. If you're a professional or student prioritizing a shorter commute and walkable lifestyle, Medford might be the better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual priorities and budget.
Share this comparison