Let the numbers do the talking.
Waltham, MA vs Westborough, MA
Waltham, MA vs Westborough, MA: What the data shows
Waltham, MA is in Waltham, MA while Westborough, MA is in Westborough, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Westborough, MA is the more affordable option at $530,000 median — $147,700 less than Waltham, MA's $677,700. WYLT rates Waltham, MA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Westborough, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Westborough, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Waltham, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Westborough, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Waltham, MA has Low flood risk and Westborough, MA has Low flood risk.
Waltham, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Waltham, MA scores 9/100 (car-dependent) versus Westborough, MA's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Waltham, MA has the higher school rating — Waltham, MA rates 7.9/10 and Westborough, MA rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Waltham, MA | Westborough, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $678K | $530K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $108K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | 17/100 | 30/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 34/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 27 min ✓ Shorter commute | 79 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 | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.3/10 |
| Best for | commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income households | Families with young childrenThose seeking a traditional suburban lifestyleCommuters to Boston with a car |
Bottom line
If you're a family prioritizing strong schools and stability, and are willing to sacrifice walkability for a safer environment, Waltham may offer more opportunities for socialization and convenience. On the other hand, if you value a more traditional suburban lifestyle and don't mind a longer commute, Westborough is likely a better fit for you, particularly if you have young children or a strong preference for a quieter community.
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