Let the numbers do the talking.
Lawrence, MA vs Upton, MA
Lawrence, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Lawrence, MA is in Lawrence, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. WYLT rates Lawrence, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Lawrence, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Lawrence, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Lawrence, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Lawrence, MA scores 25/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Upton, MA has the higher school rating — Lawrence, MA rates 7.1/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Lawrence, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | N/A | $540K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $31K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 25/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 38 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Budget‑conscious familiesCommute to BostonPeople who prefer a suburban feel over urban amenities | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For a budget-conscious family or someone prioritizing a commute to Boston, Lawrence might be a decent choice, despite its rough edges and limited amenities. However, for a family seeking a more balanced lifestyle, highly-rated schools, and a suburban feel, Upton is the clear winner, though it comes at a higher price and with a less walkable layout. Overall, if you can afford it, Upton offers a more desirable quality of life.
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