Newton,MA Neighborhood Guides
Neighborhoods in Newton, MA – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights
Neighborhood Map
Discover the Charm of Newton, MA Neighborhoods
Newton, MA, known for its picturesque streets and vibrant community spirit, offers a delightful mix of neighborhoods each with its own unique charm. From historic homes to bustling village centers, Newton is a city that blends suburban tranquility with urban convenience. Whether you're exploring the best neighborhoods in Newton or consulting a Newton neighborhoods map, you'll find a diverse array of local experiences waiting to be uncovered.
Crime, Safety & Neighborhood Stability
One of the reasons Newton consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Massachusetts is its low crime rates and strong neighborhood stability. Areas like Newton Centre and West Newton boast active neighborhood associations that work closely with the local police to maintain a secure environment. Residents often highlight the community’s commitment to safety, making these among the best neighborhoods in Newton for families seeking peace of mind and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Structure, Culture & Personality of the City’s Neighborhoods
Newton is famously divided into 13 villages, each with a distinctive personality. Newtonville offers a lively, walkable commercial district filled with boutique shops and bookstores, while Auburndale feels more suburban and quiet, perfect for those who enjoy green spaces and a slower pace. The architectural styles vary widely too, from charming Victorian homes in Newton Centre to modern condos near Newton Highlands, reflecting the city’s rich history and evolving culture.
Getting Around: Transit Information and Accessibility
Getting around Newton is convenient thanks to its extensive public transit options. The MBTA Green Line serves several villages including Newton Centre, Newton Highlands, and Waban, providing quick access to downtown Boston. Additionally, many neighborhoods are bike-friendly and offer easy highway access, making commuting seamless whether you prefer public transit, driving, or cycling. This accessibility contributes to the appeal of the best neighborhoods in Newton for professionals and students alike.
Food & Social Scene: Are Some Areas More Popular Than Others, Hotspots
Newton’s food scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. Newton Centre is a hotspot for dining with popular spots like The Local and Blue Ribbon Barbecue attracting both locals and visitors. West Newton offers a variety of international cuisines, including cozy cafes and family-run restaurants. The social scene here balances relaxed neighborhood gatherings with occasional farmers markets and cultural events, creating a warm, community-focused vibe that residents cherish.
Things to Do: What Are Some Popular Attractions and Things to Do
From beautiful parks to historic landmarks, Newton offers plenty of attractions. The Crystal Lake Reservation in Newton Centre is perfect for summer swims and picnics, while the Jackson Homestead and Museum in Newton Corner showcases local history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Charles River paths provide scenic walking and biking trails. These activities contribute to the vibrant lifestyle across Newton’s neighborhoods, making it an enjoyable place to live or visit.
Colleges & Universities: What Neighborhoods Are the Colleges/Universities Located In?
Newton is home to several notable educational institutions. Boston College, located on the Newton Corner border, brings a youthful energy to the area with its sprawling campus and cultural events. Lasell University, situated in Auburndale, adds to the academic vibe with programs in the arts and sciences. These colleges help define the character of their neighborhoods and contribute to Newton’s reputation as a hub for education and innovation.
What Are Some Things People Might Not Know About These Neighborhoods?
Many might not realize that Newton’s villages each have their own unique festivals and traditions, like the annual Newton Centre Winter Stroll or the West Newton Art Walk. Additionally, some neighborhoods, such as Nonantum, have a rich history tied to early industrial development and immigrant communities, which is still celebrated through local landmarks and events. Exploring a detailed Newton neighborhoods map can reveal these hidden gems and deepen your appreciation for the city’s diverse heritage.
Newton Demographics
Best Neighborhoods
| Hood | Med. Age | Have Kids | Home Price | Med. Income | Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newton Lower Falls | 46.6 | 36.9% | $1,325,920 | $229,394 | 6.0 |
| Newton Upper Falls | 45.2 | 32.9% | $1,134,815 | $192,154 | 6.3 |
| Newton Highlands | 46.7 | 34.3% | $1,354,338 | $209,483 | 6.6 |
| West Newton | 41.5 | 32.7% | $992,169 | $155,651 | 6.7 |
| Newton Corner | 36 | 30.9% | $1,147,727 | $171,929 | 6.8 |
| Waban | 43.4 | 37.4% | $1,465,891 | $228,101 | 6.8 |
| Nonantum | 40.6 | 28.3% | $900,129 | $143,146 | 6.8 |
| Newtown Centre | 44.5 | 37.1% | $1,397,678 | $206,786 | 6.9 |
| Thompsonville | 48.6 | 31.8% | $1,214,317 | $176,958 | 6.9 |
| Oak Hill | 46.2 | 22.4% | $1,127,950 | $168,070 | 6.9 |
Newton neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Newton—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Newton, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.
Crime in Newton
| Crime |
Reported |
Newton /100k |
MA /100k |
National /100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | 0 | 0.0 | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 9 | 10.0 | 27.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | 1.1 | 36.0 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 34 | 37.8 | 249.3 | 256.1 |
| Total Violent Crime | 44 | 49 | 315 | 359 |
| Burglary | 57 | 63.4 | 130.3 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 451 | 501.5 | 876.3 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle Theft | 31 | 34.5 | 105.5 | 258.8 |
| Total Property Crime | 539 | 599 | 1,112 | 1,760 |
| TOTAL CRIME | 583 | 648 | 1,427 | 2,119 |