Zip Code 02121
MA · Population: 29,820
About Zip Code 02121
Zip code 02121 is located in Massachusetts and is home to approximately 29,820 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 46/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
This area has significantly lower crime rates than most of the country, making it one of the safer places to live.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at $517,800 and median rent of $1,282/month against a median income of $42,411. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 21% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
The unemployment rate of 8.5% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 82 | A | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 22 | F | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 41 | C | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 39 | D | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 46 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).