Let the numbers do the talking.
Lowell, MA vs Upton, MA
Lowell, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Lowell, MA is in Lowell, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Lowell, MA is the more affordable option at $398,900 median — $141,100 less than Upton, MA's $540,000. WYLT rates Lowell, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Upton, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Upton, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Lowell, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Lowell, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Lowell, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Lowell, MA scores 20/100 (car-dependent) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Upton, MA has the higher school rating — Lowell, MA rates 7.2/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Lowell, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $399K ✓ Lower price | $540K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $79K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 20/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 14/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 3/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 41 min ✓ Shorter commute | 54 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 | 7.2/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | commutersstudentsfamilies | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For commuting students, look to Lowell for quicker access to Boston and a diverse housing selection. Families with kids, on the other hand, should consider Upton for the highly-rated schools and suburban atmosphere. Ultimately, Upton's trade-offs - such as longer commutes - are mitigated by its superior schools, making it the better all-around choice for families.
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