When looking for a new city, the one thing people check for is livability. But whether a city is livable or not will depend on its pros and cons. So, what’re the pros and cons of living in Quincy?
Quincy has a livability rating of 76%. Factors contributing to this score include excellent schools, a fair economy, food options, efficient transportation, and safe districts. But the score isn’t 100% for some reason. Those are the negatives, such as traffic, costly expenses, and expensive housing.
Regardless of these negative qualities, Quincy is one of the best places to live in Massachusetts. This article takes an in-depth look into what living in Quincy feels like.
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Pros of Living in Quincy
1. High Income and Moderate Unemployment
The average income in Quincy is enough incentive to move there. This isn’t another Massachusetts city with low income and high cost of living. The median household income in Quincy is $77,562, which is above the US average. So, you’re in luck. The unemployment rate, too, isn’t too high. In July 2021, it was 6.0, which was only slightly higher than the national average. These numbers suggest that the economy in Quincy is relatively okay. Niche.com confirms this by giving the city a B- rating for jobs. In addition, Quincy is the number 10 best suburbs for young professionals in Massachusetts.
2. Excellent Schools
Quincy’s education system is something residents can be very proud of. The city has excellent schools of all categories, from kindergarten to higher institutions. This is the kind of place you want to live when raising kids or starting your family because you’ll find multiple education options. Whether you prefer private or public schools, Quincy still offers excellent choices.
AreaVibes reports that the average test scores in the city are 30% higher than the US average. The percentage of bachelor’s degree holders is also higher, so is the high school completion rate.
Higher institutions within and near Quincy include Quincy college, Emerson College, Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts, etc. Harvard University is within driving distance as well.
3. Food Options
Whether you’re a good foodie or just enjoy your great dishes once in a while, Quincy is right for you. The food scene in Quincy is amazing as you’ll get to taste dishes from all over the world. Several restaurants are catering to different palates in this city. Whether it’s Italian, Mexican, Chinese, or any other cultural food, you’ll get it in Quincy. You can also check the international markets representing the diversity of this beautiful city. Seafood joints are also numerous here.
4. Efficient Transport System
If one word could describe the transport system in Quincy, it would be superb. Interstate 93 passes through the city. Beyond that, commuters are in luck because there are four MBTA Redline stops in the city alone, which means train commuters can easily get around the city. There are also many bus routes in the town. According to WalkScore, Quincy has a walk score of 60/100, transit score of 49, and bike score of 44. Thus, it’s reasonably walkable with enough transportation options and minimal bike infrastructure.
You can tell that the city’s transport system is efficient by the number of people that use it regularly. For example, 28.1% of Quincy residents go to work on mass transit.
5. Several Safe Neighbourhoods
Safety is always something to consider when choosing where to live. Quincy is a relatively secure place for residents. Its total crime rate is 35% below the US average, while property crimes are 42% lower. But the blemish on this excellent rating is the violent crime rate which is 5% above the national average.
Regardless of that, Quincy is still safer than 35% of cities in the country. The chance of becoming a crime victim in the city is 1 in 62. Crimes have been reducing in the city as well. So, if you’re thinking safe, think Quincy.
Cons of Living in Quincy
We can’t deny the fact that Quincy has negative features too. Even though it has many great qualities, the bad ones exist too. They include.
1. Traffic
One of the most significant problems residents have to deal with in Quincy is the traffic. Even though it has several transportation options, a major highway that goes through the city doesn’t help its traffic. The average commute time in Quincy is 35.6 minutes which is 9.2 minutes longer than the US average. So you should be prepared to spend some extra hours in traffic every week. But, on the other hand, it could be the perfect time to listen to your favorite podcasts, the latest albums, or reflect in silence.
2. Costly Expenses
By now, you’ve learned about the high-income and robust economy in Quincy. However, don’t be too excited because there are expenses you’ll be spending your money on when you move. The cost of living in Quincy is 43.9% above the US average, that’s even higher than the Massachusetts average. Thus, Quincy is similar to Cambridge and Boston when it comes to expenses. As you’re earning high, you’ll also be spending a lot on basic needs like transportation, utilities, and grocery.
The only thing that doesn’t cost much here is healthcare.
3. Expensive Houses
It’s impossible to talk about Quincy without mentioning the cost of housing. Most residents spend a substantial part of what they earn on accommodation, so it deserves a special mention. The average value in Quincy is $583,309, far above the national average or even Massachusetts average. Homes in prime neighborhoods even clad about more which means a house here requires much financial muscle.
Even if you choose to rent, rents in Quincy are still higher than the US average. An apartment costs $2,317 to rent, which is far above the US average. However, since these are only average values, you can still rent an apartment or buy a house for less. But if you’re going for the best neighborhoods, be ready to spend even more.
In Conclusion
Living in Quincy is one fantastic experience you should look forward to. You only have to ask residents and let them tell you how lovely they find their city. But while extolling its virtues, don’t forget it has blemishes too, and you’ll have to live with them as a resident.
