Let the numbers do the talking.
Somerville, MA vs Upton, MA
Somerville, MA vs Upton, MA: What the data shows
Somerville, MA is in Somerville, 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 — $319,000 less than Somerville, MA's $859,000. WYLT rates Somerville, 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. Somerville, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Upton, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Somerville, MA has Low flood risk and Upton, MA has Low flood risk.
Somerville, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Somerville, MA scores 89/100 (very walkable) versus Upton, MA's 19/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Somerville, MA has the higher school rating — Somerville, MA rates 7.5/10 and Upton, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Somerville, MA | Upton, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $859K | $540K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $104K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 89/100 ✓ More walkable | 19/100 |
| Transit Score | 58/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 67/100 ✓ 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 | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsstudentstech workers | familiescommutershomebuyers |
Bottom line
For those who value city life, proximity to Boston, and a walkable lifestyle, Somerville is a good fit. However, if you're a family or prioritize affordability and a shorter commute to non-Boston employers, Upton is the better choice. Ultimately, Somerville is ideal for young professionals, students, and tech workers, while Upton suits families and commuters.
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