Amenities
An abundance of amenities, including restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores and fitness facilities, are conveniently situated within walking distance of the area.
Commute
High commute scores indicates that public transit should be easily accessible in this area and the average commute time to work is less than average.
Crime
With a lower than average crime rate per 100,000 people, this area could be considered a very safe place to live. Crime rates are based on both violent and property crimes.
Employment
The combination of higher than average median home income, income per capita and low unemployment rates results in a score that is well above average in the employment category.
Health & Safety
A high score in the health and safety category is a result of good air quality and the accessibility to health facilities such as hospitals, clinics, doctors, pharmacies and fire stations.
Cost Of Living
Based on the most recent cost of living data, this area is more expensive to live in. You can expect to pay more for everyday goods and services, housing, groceries and utilities.
Arlington, Massachusetts is a mid-sized city with a population of 46,742 people. In Arlington, there are 9,088 people per square mile, which is well above the national population density average. The majority of Arlington residents report their race to be White; this is followed by Asian and Black. Something to be aware of when living in Arlington are the above average commute times. If you're looking for a short commute to work, this might not be the right area for you. With one way commute time of 34 minutes, this comes in much higher than the national average of 26 minutes.
Without the right tools, relocating to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Arlington, Massachusetts could be a good experience for anyone who puts in the time to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. To help you find the best places to live in and around Arlington, AreaVibes has created a livability score using key metrics like amenities, cost of living, health & safety, employment and more.
With a livability score of 88/100, Arlington is ranked #126 in the United States and #6 in Massachusetts. Based on this score, Arlington would be considered a very livable city! Arlington has also earned the rare honor of ranking in the top 10 percentile among all cities. Based on the rankings for each individual category, Arlington has been rewarded with high marks for amenities (A+), crime (A+), education (A+) and housing (B). There are some categories that Arlington does not rank well for, including: cost of living (F). It might be worth taking a closer look to determine why.
Living in Arlington offers many benefits and offers an extensive array of local amenities. These amenities play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in this vibrant community. From readily accessible grocery stores to charming coffee shops, diverse dining options and generously spaced parks, Arlington provides a wide spectrum of resources for its residents. This ensures that your daily requirements are effortlessly met and creates abundant opportunities for leisure and recreation. The abundant local offerings contribute to the area's overall appeal, making it an attractive destination for those seeking convenience, variety and a fulfilling lifestyle. If you're considering a move, the wealth of local amenities continues could be a defining feature of this remarkable locale. Some of the interesting things to do and attractions include: Arlington Friends of the Drama, Old Schwamb Mill, and The Russell House.
Crime rates can be the deciding factor for anyone looking to relocate to a new area, as the result is often a greater level of safety and security as well as an improved quality of life. Arlington gets top scores for their low violent crime rates of 55 crimes per 100,000 residents, which are significantly lower than the national average.
Unemployment rates can vary significantly among cities, impacting job prospects, wage levels and the overall economic health of an area. In Arlington, the unemployment rate stands at 2.6%, suggesting increased job opportunities and a heightened demand for workers. This scenario can lead to higher wages, as the demand for employees outpaces job availability. Importantly, a low unemployment rate often signifies a robust and flourishing local economy.
Standardized school test scores offer a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality of educational programs, instructional methods, and curriculum effectiveness. Recognizing that Arlington schools excel in test scores is a crucial consideration when determining the suitability of this area for residence. The local schools boast an impressive average test score of 70%, significantly higher than the national average. This stellar academic performance not only attests to the excellence of the educational system but also underscores the area's commitment to providing a high-quality education, making Arlington an appealing choice for those prioritizing their children's educational prospects.
Real estate represents the most substantial investment for homebuyers, constituting their most valuable asset. Renters, on the other hand, typically see their monthly rent as their most significant expense. The Arlington market earns a high score in the housing category, surpassing the national average in factors like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates. This robust real estate market not only benefits individual homeowners and renters but also spurs vigorous local economic activity and job growth, solidifying its significance in driving the region's prosperity and financial well-being.
Arlington real estate prices and overall affordability will play a huge role in determining if the area is the right fit for you. Of course there are probably some other items on your “wish list”, but even before they are considered, let’s take a look at the home prices and affordability in Arlington. Median real estate prices in Arlington come in at $1,231,442, which is 97.2% higher than the Massachusetts average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Arlington, the home price to income ratio is 7.3, which is 23.7% higher than the Massachusetts average.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Statistic | Arlington | Massachusetts | National |
| Average one way commute | 34min | 29min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 54.7% | 71.1% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 5.1% | 7.5% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 18.0% | 9.9% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 3.7% | 0.8% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 2.6% | 4.9% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 15.0% | 4.7% | 4.6% |
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