Let the numbers do the talking.
Medford, MA vs Upton, MA
Medford, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Medford, MA is in Medford, 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 — $129,600 less than Medford, MA's $669,600. WYLT rates Medford, 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. Medford, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Medford, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Medford, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Medford, MA scores 58/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Medford, MA has the higher school rating — Medford, MA rates 7.4/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Medford, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $670K | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $115K ✓ Higher income | $104K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 58/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 50/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 10 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 | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersProfessionals | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
If you have flexibility in your budget and prioritize proximity to Boston, Medford is a solid choice with a 10-minute commute and decent public transit options. However, if you're on a tighter budget and value highly-rated schools and a family-friendly atmosphere, Upton is the better bet despite its longer commute to the city. Overall, Upton is a more family-friendly, affordable option, while Medford is a more urban-friendly, high-cost choice.
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