Let the numbers do the talking.
New Bedford, MA vs Westborough, MA
New Bedford, MA vs Westborough, MA: What the data shows
New Bedford, MA is in New Bedford, MA while Westborough, MA is in Westborough, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, New Bedford, MA is the more affordable option at $280,000 median — $250,000 less than Westborough, MA's $530,000. WYLT rates New Bedford, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Westborough, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westborough, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. New Bedford, MA has High violent crime and High property crime. Westborough, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, New Bedford, MA has Low flood risk and Westborough, MA has Low flood risk.
New Bedford, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. New Bedford, MA scores 22/100 (car-dependent) versus Westborough, MA's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Westborough, MA has the higher school rating — New Bedford, MA rates 7.1/10 and Westborough, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | New Bedford, MA | Westborough, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $280K ✓ Lower price | $530K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $52K | $108K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 22/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | 17/100 | 30/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 34/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 76 min ✓ Shorter commute | 79 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 familiesremote workersseaside lovers | Families with young childrenThose seeking a traditional suburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston with a car |
Bottom line
If you're on a budget and prioritize affordability, New Bedford might be worth considering as a last resort for certain individuals. However, most people will find that Westborough's slightly longer commute is offset by its better schools, lower crime rates, and more established community. If you can afford it, settle in Westborough.
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