Is Waltham Safe, Pros and cons of living in Waltham

Waltham, Massachusetts, offers a compelling blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. Situated just west of Boston, this vibrant city provides residents with a strong sense of community alongside convenient access to the cultural and economic hub of the larger metropolitan area. Its historical significance, combined with a forward-looking economy, creates a dynamic environment for families, professionals, and students alike.

The city is known for its diverse population and a strong educational presence, housing several prominent universities and colleges. This academic environment contributes to a lively atmosphere and a well-educated workforce. Waltham’s commitment to preserving its historical charm while embracing modern development is evident in its well-maintained neighborhoods, bustling downtown, and accessible green spaces.

Is it Safe to Live in Waltham?

Waltham presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are considered moderate and, in some aspects, lower than national averages. The violent crime rate in Waltham is reported at approximately 3 per 1,000 residents, meaning a person has a 1 in 397 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime (according to NeighborhoodScout). Property crime rates are reported at about 8 per 1,000 residents, which is considered average for cities across America (according to NeighborhoodScout).

While these statistics suggest a relatively safe living environment, it’s important to note that crime can vary by neighborhood. Crime rates in Waltham are higher than in many communities of similar size across the United States, yet they are lower than the average for comparably sized cities nationwide (according to NeighborhoodScout). The city’s overall crime rate is 10 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average (according to NeighborhoodScout).

Housing and Cost of Living

Housing Market Overview

Waltham’s real estate market is quite competitive, with homes typically receiving multiple offers and selling relatively quickly. The median sale price of a home in Waltham was approximately $840,000 as of March 2026, reflecting a decrease of 7.2% from the previous year (according to Redfin). The median sale price per square foot is $502, showing a slight increase of 1.4% over the past year (according to Redfin).

For those considering renting, the rental market in Waltham is also active. The average rent for an apartment in Waltham is around $3,040, which represents a 2.87% decrease compared to the previous year (according to RentCafe). A one-bedroom apartment averages about $2,759, while a two-bedroom unit is closer to $3,267 (according to RentCafe).

Cost of Living Index

Waltham’s overall cost of living is significantly higher than the national average. Housing expenses are particularly elevated, being 86% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). Utility prices are also considerably higher, at 51% above the national average (according to Payscale).

Transportation costs are slightly higher, by 8% compared to the national average (according to Payscale). Grocery prices are 4% higher than the national average (according to Payscale). Healthcare expenses in Waltham are 18% higher than the national average (according to Payscale).

Demographics and Community

Population and Diversity

Waltham is home to a diverse population, with an estimated population of 64,902 residents as of the latest Census data (according to Point2Homes). The racial composition includes approximately 57.6% White, 15.9% Hispanic, 12.6% Asian, and 8.3% Black residents (according to Census Dots). This makes Waltham more racially diverse than Massachusetts as a whole (according to Census Dots).

The median age in Waltham is 34.4 years, with a nearly even split between males and females (according to Data USA). A significant portion of the population, around 26.2% as of 2024, were born outside the country, contributing to the city’s multicultural fabric (according to Data USA).

Education and Schools

Waltham Public Schools are rated a B overall by Niche, indicating a good quality of education. The district is recognized for its diversity, ranking 30th out of 232 for the Most Diverse School Districts in Massachusetts (according to Niche). Waltham Senior High School also holds a B rating, with strengths in diversity and college preparation.

The student-teacher ratio at Waltham Senior High School is 11 to 1, and 37% of students are proficient in math, while 42% are proficient in reading (according to Niche). Beyond the public school system, Waltham is home to prestigious institutions like Brandeis University and Bentley University, contributing to its academic vibrancy.

Economy and Employment

Job Market and Major Employers

Waltham boasts a robust job market, with a median household income reported at $104,594 (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). The average annual household income was even higher at $145,664 in 2024 (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). The unemployment rate in Waltham was 4.80% as of February 2026, which is higher than the long-term average (according to YCharts).

Key employers in Waltham include Thermo Fisher Scientific, AstraZeneca, and Fresenius Medical Care North America (according to Zippia). These major companies contribute significantly to the local economy and provide diverse employment opportunities across various sectors.

Salary and Earning Potential

The average salary in Waltham, Massachusetts, is approximately $95,000 per year, with wages showing an upward trend (according to PayScale). Some of the highest-paying roles in Waltham include Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Emergency Veterinarian, and Vice President of Information Technology (according to ZipRecruiter). These positions reflect the city’s strong presence in technology, healthcare, and professional services.

The median individual income in Waltham was $52,402 in 2024 (according to Data Commons). However, broader salary data suggests a higher earning potential, with many salaries ranging between $62,809 and $101,400 annually (according to ZipRecruiter).

Climate and Environment

Temperature and Seasons

Waltham experiences a climate with four distinct seasons, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature ranges from a low of 17°F in January to a high of 85°F in July (according to myPerfectWeather). The warm season typically lasts from early June to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 73°F.

The coldest month is January, with average daily temperatures ranging from 21°F to 36°F (according to WorldWeatherOnline). Conversely, July is the hottest month, with average temperatures between 63°F and 82°F (according to WorldWeatherOnline).

Precipitation and Weather Patterns

Waltham receives a substantial amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an annual average of 48 inches (according to myPerfectWeather). October typically sees the most rain, averaging 3.9 inches, while January has the least, with about 1.9 inches (according to WorldWeatherOnline). Snowfall is also common in the winter months, with an average of 57 inches annually (according to myPerfectWeather).

The city experiences a humid continental climate with no dry season and hot summers (according to myPerfectWeather). While precipitation is spread fairly evenly, December tends to be the wettest month, receiving approximately 5.1 inches of rain and snow equivalent (according to Weather & Climate).