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Hempstead, NY vs Jamaica, NY
Hempstead, NY vs Jamaica, NY: What the data shows
Hempstead, NY is in Hempstead, NY while Jamaica, NY is in Jamaica, NY — both in the same state. On home prices, Hempstead, NY is the more affordable option at $425,300 median — $355,800 less than Jamaica, NY's $781,100. WYLT rates Hempstead, NY as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Jamaica, NY as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Hempstead, NY has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hempstead, NY has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Jamaica, NY has High violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Hempstead, NY has Low flood risk and Jamaica, NY has Low flood risk.
Jamaica, NY is the more walkable neighborhood. Hempstead, NY scores 74/100 (very walkable) versus Jamaica, NY's 95/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Hempstead, NY rates 7.3/10 and Jamaica, NY rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Hempstead, NY | Jamaica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $425K ✓ Lower price | $781K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $83K ✓ Higher income | $72K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 74/100 | 95/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 42/100 | 77/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 60 min | 24 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesDog ownersSuburban commuters | Budget rentersJFK commutersPeople who value walkability |
Bottom line
For young professionals and JFK commuters, Jamaica offers a more convenient and affordable walkable environment, making it a better choice despite its crime concerns. Families with a higher budget and a desire for good schools and a suburban feel may find Hempstead more suitable, but need to carefully weigh the drawbacks. Ultimately Hempstead's drawbacks likely outweigh its advantages in the long run.
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