Lawrence Emerges as the Suburb with the Lowest Quality of Life in Boston Communities
“Saturday Night Science” Reveals Lawrence as the Suburb with the Lowest Quality of Life Index
In the pursuit of a quieter lifestyle away from the bustling city of Boston, an increasing number of individuals are opting for suburban living. However, there is a growing interest in identifying which suburbs are experiencing the most challenges. Researchers have employed a method known as “Saturday Night Science” to analyze data from the latest American Community Survey (2018-2022) and identify the ten suburbs facing significant difficulties. Factors such as high unemployment rates, low incomes, sparse population density, decreased home values, a notable presence of high school dropouts, heightened poverty rates, and a substantial proportion of uninsured families were taken into consideration. Out of the 24 suburbs assessed Lawrence was determined to have the lowest quality of life index.
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Unveiling the 3 Toughest Boston Communities: Economic Challenges and Quality of Life Issues Highlighted. (PHOTO: Travel + Leisure)
Navigating Suburban Disparities: Insights into Boston’s Communities
In its tenth iteration, this exhaustive analysis seeks to illuminate the diverse challenges confronting the communities surrounding Boston. While some suburbs, like Newton, endeavor to mirror the appeal of Boston, others grapple with maintaining pace. As individuals seek solace from urban commotion, comprehending the variations in suburban quality of life assumes greater significance, offering valuable insights for those deliberating on their residential preferences.
The 3 Toughest Boston Communities for 2024
1. Lawrence. Lawrence emerges as the forefront contender for the least desirable suburban location surrounding Boston as per recent statistics. Boasting a population of 88,067 Lawrence is notable for its modest median income of $53,977 coupled with the highest unemployment rate at 10.4%, and the fourth-lowest median home value of $436,042. Despite its affordability Lawrence grapples with economic hardships particularly evident in its subpar rankings concerning income and housing values. This economic landscape may present challenges for residents, limiting opportunities for expenditure due to the city’s economic constraints.
2. Chelsea. According to recent data, Chelsea, situated a mere 4.5 miles from Boston finds itself among the list of Boston’s most challenging suburbs. With a population of 39,890 Chelsea contends with economic hurdles, showcasing the fourth-lowest median income in the metropolitan area at $71,051. The city also grapples with an unemployment rate of 8.9% ranking as the second highest among the evaluated suburbs. Moreover, Chelsea’s median home value of $483,659 ranks seventh lowest. Despite its close proximity to Boston, Chelsea struggles to offer affordable living options to its residents, as evidenced by the limited opportunities for financial stability highlighted in the data.
3. Brockton. Recent data highlights Brockton as one of the least favorable suburbs in the vicinity of Boston. With a population of 104,713, Brockton contends with economic hurdles, presenting the seventh-lowest median income in the metropolitan area at $74,016. Compounding these challenges is an unemployment rate of 8.2%, ranking as the third highest among the assessed suburbs. Moreover, Brockton’s median home value of $455,030 places it among the bottom five. Despite its affordability, residents encounter limited employment prospects and recreational amenities, alongside concerns regarding educational achievement, underscored by elevated adult high school dropout rates. Nevertheless, Brockton offers respite through its picturesque parks, affording families opportunities for daytime leisure activities.
