I also live in Newton, it greatly depends on the neighborhood you choose to live in as how expensive it's going to cost you. No matter which neighborhood you live in though, it's super safe and you will have the greatest public education in the country for your children. If you want direct access to the Longwood area via the MBTA you'll want to look in the Newton Centre area. You can be in Longwood within 15 minutes. Which is faster then driving unless you drive at night. Good luck in your search and feel free to DM me if you have any questions!