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New Bedford, MA
New Bedford · Bristol County · MA 02740
Updated June 19, 2026 · Would You Live There?
Think twice
Verdict
$280K
Median Price
22/100
Walk Score
7.1/10
Schools
76 min
to Boston, MA
Score Breakdown
DAffordability
45/100
FSafety
18/100
B-Schools
71/100
DQuietness
40/100
FCommute
35/100
FWalkability
22/100
WYLT Score39/100
Our Take
New Bedford offers affordable homes and a beach lifestyle, but the walkability, crime, and limited transit options make it a tougher choice for many. If you’re willing to drive and can handle higher crime rates, it might suit you, otherwise consider a more accessible city.
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The Good
- ✓Affordably priced homes compared to the region
- ✓Coastal location with beaches and waterfront
- ✓Tight-knit community feel
- ✓Potential for property value growth over time
Real Talk
- !High property and violent crime rates
- !Very low walkability – car needed for most errands
- !Public transit is minimal and unreliable
- !Economic challenges with limited local job opportunities
- $Higher insurance premiums due to coastal setting
- $Older homes may need frequent maintenance
- $Daily commuting to Boston adds time and cost
Best For
budget familiesremote workersseaside loversretirees
Risk Snapshot
Flood riskLow
Violent crimeHigh
Property crimeHigh
Air qualityModerate
Price volatilityModerate
Crime & Safety
New Bedford, MA
F
Safety grade
Safety score18 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
High9.2incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+
149% higher than the national average
🔒Property Crime
High38.4incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+
97% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
City-Data stats →From Residents
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