Let the numbers do the talking.
New Bedford, MA vs Upton, MA
New Bedford, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
New Bedford, MA is in New Bedford, MA while Upton, MA is in Upton, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, New Bedford, MA is the more affordable option at $280,000 median — $260,000 less than Upton, MA's $540,000. WYLT rates New Bedford, 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. New Bedford, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, New Bedford, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
New Bedford, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. New Bedford, MA scores 22/100 (car-dependent) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Upton, MA has the higher school rating — New Bedford, MA rates 7.1/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | New Bedford, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $280K ✓ Lower price | $540K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $52K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 22/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 17/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 76 min | 54 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 familiesremote workersseaside lovers | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For someone looking for an affordable lifestyle and a beach setting, New Bedford might be worth considering despite its drawbacks, but for families or commuters seeking reliable schools and easy access to Boston, Upton is the better choice. If you prioritize the city's amenities and are willing to sacrifice some home value, then the higher cost of living in Upton might not be worth it; however, for those who value the benefits of suburban living, Upton is a more well-rounded option. Ultimately, someone who wants an urban-suburban balance might find New Bedford more suitable, while those who prioritize education, safety, and access to employment opportunities should settle in Upton.
Share this comparison