Let the numbers do the talking.
Jamaica Plain, MA vs Waltham, MA
| Category | Jamaica Plain, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $730K | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $115K | $118K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 67/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 33/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 16 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies with childrenPet owners | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a more vibrant community and shorter commute to Boston, Jamaica Plain is the better choice, despite its higher median home price. In contrast, Waltham is a better fit for families and commuters who value strong schools and a stable environment over walkability and a lively neighborhood atmosphere. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to your individual priorities and what you're willing to compromise on.
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