Connecticut may be the third smallest state in the US, but it’s packed with beautiful scenery, vibrant cities, and charming towns that make it a wonderful place to call home. Whether you’re a fan of bustling city life or prefer the peace and quiet of a small town, there’s a place in Connecticut that’s perfect for you.
So, if you’re thinking of moving to this wonderful state or just want to know more about the best places to live in Connecticut, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most desirable towns and cities in Connecticut, from historic coastal communities to bustling metropolitan areas. So, let’s get started and discover the best places to live in Connecticut!
1. New Haven, Connecticut
- Population change: B
- Median rent: D
- Points of interest: A
- Education: A
- Health care: A
Located 80 miles northeast of New York City, New Haven is the home of the prestigious Yale University. While this Ivy League institution helped the city earn its A grade for education, it’s much more than just a college town. The Connecticut Transit Bus will help you access the area’s museums, golf courses, parks, and upscale restaurants like ZINC New Haven and L’Orcio. All these excellent points of interest make up for the higher-than-average Median Rent of $1,850 for a one-bedroom apartment. Overall, New Haven is a dynamic city with plenty to offer, and it is considered one of the best places to live in Connecticut.
2. Bridgeport, Connecticut
- Population change: B
- Median rent: C
- Points of interest: A-
- Education: B
- Health care: A
Bridgeport has a rich history as an industrial and commercial center, and it was once home to the world’s largest manufacturer of sewing machines, the Wheeler & Wilson Company. Bridgeport is also home to the University of Bridgeport, a private university that attracts students from around the world. Despite its urban character, Bridgeport is surrounded by natural beauty, with beaches, forests, and mountains just a short drive away. While Bridgeport has faced some challenges in recent years, it remains an important economic and cultural hub in the region.
3. Waterbury, Connecticut
- Population change: A
- Median rent: A
- Points of interest: C-
- Education: B
- Health care: F
Waterbury is a city located in New Haven County, Connecticut, in the United States. It is situated in the Naugatuck River Valley and is known as the “Brass City” due to its history as a major center of brass manufacturing. Affordable median rents of $1,050 for one-bedroom apartments have inspired a population explosion in Waterbury, helping it to A grades in both these areas. The city also boasts plentiful job opportunities, especially in its B-rated school system and vibrant restaurant industry. The food scene reflects the diverse population, with restaurants like La Tavola Ristorante and Signature’s Restaurant among its best.
4. Hartford, Connecticut
- Population change: F
- Median rent: B
- Points of interest: B+
- Education: A
- Health care: B
As Connecticut’s capital, Hartford offers all the conveniences of big-city living. Prestigious learning institutions like Global Communications Academy, Trinity College, and the University of Connecticut School of Business helped Hartford earn an A in education. The city has a rich history and culture, and it played a significant role in the American Revolution and the Industrial Revolution. Hartford also has a strong health care system and a relatively affordable median rent of $1,100 for a one-bedroom apartment. With great stores, parks, and attractions like the Mark Twain House & Museum and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, you’ll never feel bored in Hartford.
5. Stamford, Connecticut
- Population change: A
- Median rent: F
- Points of interest: C+
- Education: C
- Health care: D
Stamford’s population has grown by 6,676 to 136,312 in just two years, giving it an A grade for growth. With excellent job opportunities at Fortune 500 companies like Charter Communications, Synchrony, and United Rentals, convenient highways and public transport options, and a vibrant nightlife scene, it’s not hard to see why so many people want to call Stamford home. The high rents may be the only downside of life here. Expect to pay around $2,396 for a one-bedroom place.
6. Danbury, Connecticut
- Population change: C
- Median rent: D
- Points of interest: C+
- Education: C
- Health care: C
Don’t let the average ratings fool you. There’s a lot to love about living in Danbury. While the limited entertainment options drag down its points of interest grade, shopaholics will love Danbury Fair, one of New England’s largest malls. The food scene boasts exciting, high-quality restaurants. Try Vietnamese at Le’s Kitchen, sample Brazilian at Minas Carne & Deli, or stick with American comfort food at Rosy Tomorrow’s Restaurant or Square One Bar and Grill. You’ll pay roughly $1,763 for a one-bedroom apartment.
7. Bristol, Connecticut
- Population change: F
- Median rent: A
- Points of interest: D-
- Education: F
- Health care: C
If you’re looking for affordable rent in Connecticut, Bristol is an excellent option. With a median rent of $1,100 for a one-bedroom place, you’ll have more to spend on your daily essentials. As a suburban area, there are only limited attractions. The eateries aren’t fancy, hence the relatively low points of interest grade, but if you appreciate simple food done well, you’ll love Hometown Pizza of Bristol and Thai Avenue Kitchen & Bar. Bristol’s safe neighborhoods are another major draw for residents.
8. Norwalk, Connecticut
- Population change: C
- Median rent: F
- Points of interest: D+
- Education: D
- Health care: B
Norwalk, in southwestern Connecticut, is a coastal city boasting a peaceful way of life. Its waterfront location has pushed rents up to a median of $2,025 for a one-bedroom apartment, but it offers an enviable lifestyle to those who can afford it. Norwalk’s safe pedestrian- and bike-friendly streets and top outdoor spaces like Veterans Memorial Park and Marina and Calf Pasture and Shady Beach attract families.
Frequently asked questions about living in Connecticut
There are good job prospects in most parts of Connecticut, especially in the finance, insurance, health care, bioscience, and supply chain manufacturing sectors. Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp, and Yale New Haven Health System are some of the state’s largest employers. The unemployment rate of 4.2% is slightly higher than the national average of 3.7%.
Connecticut experiences all four seasons, so pack a complete wardrobe. Summers suit exploring state parks and swimming, with only a few scorching days. Hit the trails and admire the iconic New England foliage on cooler fall days. Winter can challenge newcomers, with average low temperatures of 17 degrees and heavy snowfall. Cool, rainy spring days bring some relief after winter’s chill.
Connecticut has America’s second-highest tax rate, with only the people of Illinois having a greater burden. The median household pays 14.85% in state and local taxes, or $9,385 per year. That’s 37.41% more than the national average. Thankfully, wages tend to be higher than in most states to ease the cost of living in Connecticut.
Final thoughts
Now that you know Connecticut’s neighborhoods, it’s time to find your apartment in the Constitution State. You should be able to find a place that suits your budget in your preferred Connecticut city.
The post The 8 Best Places to Live in Connecticut appeared first on The Zumper Blog.
This post first appeared on The Zumper Blog | Rental Market Trends, Real Estat, please read the originial post: here
