Let the numbers do the talking.
Dover, MA vs Waltham, MA
Dover, MA vs Waltham, MA: What the data shows
Dover, MA is in Dover, MA while Waltham, MA is in Waltham, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Dover, MA is the more affordable option at $640,000 median — $37,700 less than Waltham, MA's $677,700. WYLT rates Dover, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Waltham, 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. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Dover, MA has Low flood risk and Waltham, MA has Low flood risk.
Waltham, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Dover, MA scores N/A/100 versus Waltham, MA's 9/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waltham, MA has the higher school rating — Dover, MA rates 7.5/10 and Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10.
| Category | Dover, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $640K ✓ Lower price | $678K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $93K | $118K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 9/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 33 min | 27 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 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with kidsFirst-time homebuyersCommuters to Boston | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
For families with kids, Dover is the better choice due to its exceptional schools and commute time to Boston. However, Waltham has a slightly stronger school system and similar commute time, making it more suitable for those prioritizing education. Ultimately, if you're willing to sacrifice walkability and nightlife for a quieter suburban setting, Dover's lower median home price makes it a more affordable option.
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