Waltham, Waltham MA — neighborhood review

Waltham, MA

Waltham · Middlesex County · MA 02451

Updated August 3, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Good for now

Verdict

$753K

Median Price

53/100

Walk Score

8.9/10

Schools

27 min

to Boston, MA

Score Breakdown

DAffordability
45/100
D+Safety
55/100
B+Schools
89/100
CQuietness
60/100
B+Commute
85/100
D+Walkability
53/100
WYLT Score65/100

Our Take

Waltham offers solid public schools and a stable, middle‑to‑upper income community, but it’s almost entirely car‑dependent with minimal transit. The housing cost is high relative to the median income, and new development often faces community pushback. If you’re a commuter to Boston and value a safe, family‑friendly environment, it’s worth considering, but be prepared for higher living costs and limited walkability.

B.

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The Good

  • Excellent public schools
  • Proximity to Boston for commuters
  • Low flood risk
  • Strong median income indicating economic stability

Real Talk

  • !Very car‑dependent, almost no pedestrian options
  • !Public transit is limited and slow
  • !Housing and rent prices are high relative to many surrounding areas
  • !Community can be resistant to new development and change
  • $Higher property taxes and utility costs in Massachusetts
  • $Parking and car insurance add to monthly expenses
  • $Cost of living (groceries, services) is above average

Best For

commuters to Bostonfamilies seeking strong schoolsmiddle to upper income householdsthose valuing stability over trendiness

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Waltham, MA

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate
3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
Moderate
19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

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From Residents

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