Let the numbers do the talking.
Dover, MA vs Plymouth, MA
Dover, MA vs Plymouth, MA: What the data shows
Dover, MA is in Dover, MA while Plymouth, MA is in Plymouth, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Plymouth, MA is the more affordable option at $461,500 median — $178,500 less than Dover, MA's $640,000. WYLT rates Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Plymouth, 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. Plymouth, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dover, MA has Low flood risk and Plymouth, MA has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Plymouth, MA has the higher school rating — Dover, MA rates 7.5/10 and Plymouth, MA rates 8/10.
| Category | Dover, MA | Plymouth, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $640K | $462K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $93K | $107K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 33 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| 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 | 8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersCommuters to Boston | FamiliesSuburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston |
Bottom line
If you're a family with kids, looking for a safe, convenient, and affordable lifestyle in a quiet suburban setting with easy access to Boston, Dover is the better choice. For families on a tighter budget or those who don't prioritize proximity to downtown Boston but still want decent schools and a suburban feel, Plymouth is a more affordable option. Ultimately, consider Dover for its stronger school ratings and shorter commute, but Plymouth if budget is a bigger concern.
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