Let the numbers do the talking.
Malden, MA vs Upton, MA
Malden, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Malden, MA is in Malden, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Upton, MA is the more affordable option at $540,000 median — $30,600 less than Malden, MA's $570,600. WYLT rates Malden, 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. Malden, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Malden, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Malden, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Malden, MA scores 63/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Malden, MA rates 7.3/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Malden, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $571K | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $90K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 63/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 48/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 13 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 | 7.3/10 | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | commutersfamiliesyoung professionals | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional or a commuter who prioritizes access to Boston and a urban vibe, Malden might be the better choice for its shorter commute and slightly higher walk score. On the other hand, if you're a family with a car and value excellent schools and a more suburban feel, Upton's longer commute is likely outweighed by its highly-rated schools and lower home prices. Ultimately, the two neighborhoods serve different needs and preferences, but Upton stands out as a more comprehensive choice for families.
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