Top 15 Best Places to Live in Connecticut (2023)

Connecticut boasts numerous beautiful cities and small towns, making it challenging to determine where to initiate your hunt for the perfect place to live. However, here are fifteen top places to reside in CT that you should consider exploring.

15 Best Places to Live in Connecticut

New Haven

New Haven, Connecticut, is undoubtedly the best place to live in Connecticut. The city boasts of a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene that is second to none. It is often referred to as the cultural capital of Connecticut and is home to the prestigious Yale University, numerous art galleries, museums, parks, and renowned restaurants. New Haven offers the best of both worlds with its colonial charm and cosmopolitan amenities. It is also one of the most walkable cities in America, with picturesque brick-paved streets dotted with independent shops and restaurants. Additionally, the city has a reliable public transportation system with commuter trains that run to New York City, Springfield, and Hartford. New Haven is also known for its abundance of beautiful green spaces that provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Greenwich

Greenwich, Connecticut, is one of the oldest and best towns. With a rich history and a thriving economy, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular choice for residents. Located just an hour outside New York City, it’s a convenient commuter town for working professionals. Despite its proximity to the city, Greenwich has a charming small-town atmosphere that’s hard to resist. It offers an array of shopping and dining options, several public parks and almost 150 acres of beaches along the Long Island Sound. One of its most sought-after neighbourhoods is Cos Cobb, situated along the shoreline and boasts various national landmarks and art galleries.

West Hartford

West Hartford, Connecticut, is a town that has consistently been recognized as one of the best places to live in the country. The city is located just five miles west of downtown Hartford. It is home to prominent universities like the University of Hartford and the University of Saint Joseph, creating a wealth of educational and employment opportunities for its residents.

West Hartford Center, also referred to as the town’s downtown centre, can be found along Farmington Road and Main Street. This charming area boasts an array of top-notch shops and restaurants, making it a must-visit destination. Another local attraction is Elizabeth Park, which offers visitors the chance to enjoy nature walks, picturesque flower and rock gardens, and greenhouses. One of the most appealing aspects of West Hartford is its old-world charm and the affordability of its real estate, making it a popular choice for families looking for a place to settle down and grow.

New Canaan

New Canaan, Connecticut, is a highly sought-after town to reside in, particularly for those who work in New York City. Located on the beautiful Gold Coast of Connecticut, it’s less than an hour from Manhattan, making it a famous commuter city. New Canaan is consistently ranked among the wealthiest areas in the country and is renowned for its unique mid-century architecture, featuring picturesque homes designed by iconic architects like Marcel Breuer, Eliot Noyes, and Philip Johnson. The town is also famous for its remarkable schools, low crime rate, and stunning parks. New Canaan caters to everyone’s needs with a wide range of world-class restaurants, upscale boutiques, state-of-the-art gyms, and nearby ski mountains. Above all, New Canaan is a peaceful haven in the northwest corner of Connecticut, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Simsbury

Simsbury, a Hartford suburb in the Farmington River Valley along the Metacomet Ridge, is a sought-after destination for those seeking a mix of suburban comfort and rural tranquillity. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Talcott Mountain State Park, which offers hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, clifftop viewpoints, and fishing and swimming ponds. The town boasts beautiful historic homes, excellent dining options, and public parks. Simsbury is ideal for individuals looking for quality schools, job prospects, and a peaceful lifestyle.

Old Greenwich

Old Greenwich, Connecticut, is widely regarded as one of the most desirable places to live. The neighbourhood is located in the town of Greenwich and is considered one of the wealthiest communities in the United States. With its roots dating back to 1640, Old Greenwich is the town’s oldest neighbourhood. One of the neighbourhood’s most attractive features is its stunning views of the Long Island Sound. Additionally, Old Greenwich is an excellent option for those who work in Manhattan, offering a relatively quick commute into the city.

Old Greenwich is a charming neighbourhood in Connecticut that offers a serene suburban atmosphere with various parks and open green spaces. One of the top attractions is Greenwich Point, which spans 147 acres and boasts stunning views of New York City across the water and stretches of sandy beaches. The downtown area is brimming with delightful local shops and restaurants that offer a broad range of options from fine dining to seafood. The blend of comfort and sophistication makes Old Greenwich a highly coveted place to live, consistently ranked as one of the best places to reside in America.

Weatogue

Weatogue, located in Hartford County, is a picturesque village along the breathtaking Farmington River. Known for its outstanding schools, Weatogue offers a high quality of life with a small-town charm that appeals to residents from all walks of life. The town boasts an array of quaint coffee shops, restaurants, and parks that add to its allure. Young families are drawn to Weatogue for its affordable housing prices and low crime rate. Commuting to downtown Hartford or Springfield is a breeze from Weatogue. The neighbourhood is renowned for its friendly neighbours and tight-knit community, making it one of the best places to live in Connecticut for those who crave a cosy, small-town vibe.

Southport

Southport is one of the most desirable places to live in Connecticut. This charming seaside town is in Fairfield County, nestled between Mill River and Sasco Brook, with the Long Island Sound as its backdrop. Its proximity to New York City, just an hour away, makes it a favourite among commuters. The village is renowned for its stunning tree-lined streets, classic New England architecture, and a picturesque seaport with a yacht club. Southport boasts a designated historic district where homes are built in various popular architectural styles, such as Greek Revival, Georgian, Victorian, Romanesque, and Federal. While it may be a bit more expensive than other areas, the air of sophistication that it exudes is something that many residents cherish.

Darien

Darien, a picturesque seaside town within Connecticut’s Gold Coast, offers a tranquil escape just 37 miles northeast of New York City. Popular among commuters, the town boasts two Metro-North Stations that stop at Grand Central, making it an ideal location for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter lifestyle. The town offers recreational opportunities, including two beaches, eleven parks, two yacht clubs, and multiple country clubs. With its peaceful ambience and abundant nearby recreational activities, Darien is perfect for those seeking a seaside community to call home.

Glastonbury

Glastonbury, a Hartford County town along the Connecticut River, boasts a welcoming community suitable for families. Excellent schools, numerous parks, and low crime rates make it a great place to call home. Additionally, it takes only about 10 minutes to reach downtown Hartford, and the beach is just under an hour’s drive away.

If you’re looking for a fun weekend activity in Glastonbury, Rose’s Berry Farm is worth checking out. It’s a popular spot where visitors can pick fruit, including strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, and pears. Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts can explore the Cotton Hollow Preserve, which spans 80 acres of preserved woodlands for hiking or fishing. Glastonbury is a peaceful suburb with a high standard of living that appeals to families and working professionals alike.

Weston

Located just 4 miles east of New York City, Weston is a charming small town in Fairfield County. It boasts of having the highest median income in Connecticut, making it one of the wealthiest communities in the United States. Weston is primarily known as a bedroom community for those who work in New York, but it offers much more than that. The Devil’s Den Nature Preserve is a significant attraction in Weston, with nearly 1800 acres of animal habitats and hiking trails. If you’re a commuter looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Weston offers the perfect balance of country living and modern conveniences.

Avon

Avon, situated in the Farmington Valley region of Hartford County, is one of the most desirable towns to reside in Connecticut. This small New England town perfectly blends urban amenities and small-town charm. Avon Marketplace and Riverdale Farms Shopping provide residents with various shops and restaurants. Amidst the bustling city, one can enjoy outdoor recreation at Buckingham Park, Sycamore Hills Recreation Area, or Talcott Mountain. Avon’s excellent public schools, affordable homes, and low crime rate make it a perfect place to settle down.

Cheshire

Cheshire, a stunning residential community in New Haven County, is a highly sought-after place to live in the US. It has been ranked among the top 50 places to live by Money Magazine due to its exceptional safety, excellent educational institutions and high standard of living. Located between New Haven and Hartford, Cheshire perfectly balances rural tranquillity and accessible urban living. The city’s local favourite, Sleeping Giant State Park, boasts two miles of mountain tops with a lookout tower, an array of nature trails, and picnic areas. Furthermore, an annual Strawberry Festival featuring live music, local artisan craft goods, and fresh fruit is held annually in the city. Cheshire is a perfect location for families seeking a safe, family-friendly community amid breathtaking natural surroundings.

Ridgefield

Nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Ridgefield is a breathtaking town in Fairfield County. The quaint New England village boasts a historic downtown area, home to many delightful shops and restaurants. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of local attractions, including the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, Prospector Theater, and downtown Ballard Park. Moreover, Ridgefield offers a highly rated public school system, a low crime rate, and numerous employment opportunities. With its stunning scenery and distinctive local culture, Ridgefield is a must-visit for those seeking a unique and charming experience.

Woodbridge

Woodbridge, a peaceful suburb of New Haven, provides a secure environment, exceptional schools, and convenient shopping options. Despite its proximity to major cities like New York City, Hartford, and Boston, the town offers a rural and small-town vibe with vast greenery, woodlands, hiking trails, and fishing ponds. The town’s highly acclaimed school system has a low teacher-to-student ratio, making it an ideal location to raise a family.

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