Let the numbers do the talking.
Jamaica Plain, MA vs Westborough, MA
Jamaica Plain, MA vs Westborough, MA: What the data shows
Jamaica Plain, MA is in Jamaica Plain, MA while Westborough, MA is in Westborough, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Westborough, MA is the more affordable option at $530,000 median — $199,600 less than Jamaica Plain, MA's $729,600. WYLT rates Jamaica Plain, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Westborough, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westborough, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Jamaica Plain, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Westborough, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Jamaica Plain, MA has Low flood risk and Westborough, MA has Low flood risk.
Jamaica Plain, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Jamaica Plain, MA scores 67/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Westborough, MA's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Jamaica Plain, MA has the higher school rating — Jamaica Plain, MA rates 7.6/10 and Westborough, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Jamaica Plain, MA | Westborough, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $730K | $530K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $115K ✓ Higher income | $108K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 67/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | 33/100 ✓ Better transit | 30/100 |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | 34/100 |
| Commute | 16 min ✓ Shorter commute | 79 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies with childrenPet owners | Families with young childrenThose seeking a traditional suburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston with a car |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional or looking for a lively community vibe with good schools, Jamaica Plain might be worth considering, but be prepared for high housing costs and some noise. For families with young children seeking a quiet suburban lifestyle and a more affordable housing market, Westborough is likely a better fit. If you value accessibility to Boston but don't mind a longer commute, Westborough's proximity might be worth the extra travel time.
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