Let the numbers do the talking.
Newton, MA vs Waltham, MA
| Category | Newton, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $972K | $678K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $134K ✓ Higher income | $118K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 32/100 ✓ More walkable | 9/100 |
| Transit Score | 44/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute | 27 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to BostonHigh income professionals | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households |
Bottom line
For families with the budget, Newton is generally the better choice due to its higher-quality schools and more convenient commute to Boston. However, if you prioritize walkability and affordability over school quality, Waltham might be a better fit. Ultimately, both neighborhoods share similar drawbacks, such as high costs and limited walkability, so it's essential to weigh your priorities carefully.
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