Define “near” most people that live in Worcester rarely actually go into Boston. I lived near Worcester for over 10 years and rarely went to Boston for anything unless it was work related - traffic, parking it was just too expensive and time consuming. Also had friends that lived near WPI (a few blocks from campus) and they had issues with crime and people breaking into their apartment but I guess this could happen in any city.
Social life is what YOU make of it no matter where you go.