Connecticut is a state known for its high cost of living, but there are still affordable and safe places to live. Whether you're a student looking for a place to live near your campus, or you're just looking for a new home, here are the top 8 affordable and safe places to live in Connecticut, along with some key statistics about each city.
Top 8 Affordable and Safe Places to Live in Connecticut
- Middletown
- Bristol
- New Haven
- Manchester
- West Hartford
- Milford
- Meriden
- Bridgeport
Middletown
Middletown, a picturesque city situated on the Connecticut River, approximately 16 miles south of Hartford, offers a blend of urban and suburban living.
Here are some key statistics about Middletown:
- Population: Middletown has a population of just over 47,405 people.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Middletown is 26% lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live.
- Colleges: Middletown is home to Wesleyan University, which provides various employment opportunities for students and residents alike.
- College Resources: Students can take advantage of the resources offered by Wesleyan University, such as libraries, sports facilities, and more.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at the 600-acre Middletown Reservoir, including hiking and fishing.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Middletown is approximately $300,000.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Middletown is around $1,200.
Bristol
Bristol, a small city situated in central Connecticut, approximately 20 miles southwest of Hartford, provides an affordable and secure living environment.
Here are some key statistics about Bristol:
- Population: Bristol has a population of just over 60,653 people, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Bristol is 41% lower than the national average, making it one of the safest cities in Connecticut.
- ESPN: Bristol is home to ESPN, offering various employment opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation at Lake Compounce, a popular amusement park and water park.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Bristol is around $200,000, making it an affordable place to own a home.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Bristol is around $1,000, providing affordable rental options.
New Haven
New Haven, a vibrant city situated on the Connecticut coast, approximately 70 miles northeast of New York City, offers a diverse blend of urban and suburban lifestyles.
Here are some key statistics about New Haven:
- Population: New Haven has a population of just over 137,339 people, representing a diverse community.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in New Haven is 19% higher than the national average, although it has been decreasing in recent years.
- Yale University: New Haven is home to Yale University, providing a range of employment opportunities for students and residents.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at East Rock Park, a popular hiking destination offering breathtaking city views.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in New Haven is approximately $250,000.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in New Haven is around $1,400.
Manchester
Manchester, a small town located in central Connecticut, approximately 10 miles east of Hartford, provides a tranquil environment with affordable living options.
Here are some key statistics about Manchester:
- Population: Manchester has a population of just over 36,832 people, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Manchester is 18% lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live.
- Manchester Community College: Manchester is home to Manchester Community College.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Wickham Park, a 500-acre park with gardens, trails, and picnic areas.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Manchester is around $200,000, providing affordable housing options.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Manchester is around $1,100, offering affordable rental choices.
West Hartford
West Hartford, a suburban town situated just west of Hartford, offers a desirable mix of urban and suburban living.
Here are some key statistics about West Hartford:
- Population: West Hartford has a population of just over 64,034 people, providing a vibrant community.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in West Hartford is 34% lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live.
- University of Hartford: West Hartford is home to the University of Hartford.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Elizabeth Park, known for its gardens, walking paths, and pond.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in West Hartford is approximately $350,000.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in West Hartford is around $1,500.
Milford
Milford, a coastal city situated in southern Connecticut, approximately 60 miles northeast of New York City, offers a desirable blend of urban and suburban living. Here are some key statistics about Milford:
- Population: Milford has a population of just over 50,559 people, providing a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Milford is 44% lower than the national average, making it one of the safest cities in Connecticut.
- Gateway Community College: Milford is home to the Milford Campus of Gateway Community College.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Silver Sands State Park, a popular beach destination.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Milford is around $350,000, reflecting the city's desirability.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Milford is around $1,500, aligning with the higher cost of living.
Meriden
Meriden, a small city located in central Connecticut, approximately 20 miles south of Hartford, provides a diverse community with affordable living options.
Here are some key statistics about Meriden:
- Population: Meriden has a population of just over 60,147 people, fostering a diverse community atmosphere.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Meriden is 29% lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live.
- Middlesex Community College: Meriden is home to Middlesex Community College, offering various educational and employment opportunities.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Hubbard Park, known for its hiking trails, lake, and castle.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Meriden is around $200,000, providing affordable housing options.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Meriden is around $1,100, offering affordable rental choices.
Bridgeport
Bridgeport, a large city located on the coast of Connecticut, approximately 60 miles northeast of New York City, offers a diverse blend of urban and suburban living.
Here are some key statistics about Bridgeport:
- Population: Bridgeport has a population of just over 148,457 people, making it the largest city in Connecticut.
- Crime Rate: The crime rate in Bridgeport is 27% higher than the national average. However, it has been decreasing in recent years, indicating positive trends in safety.
- University of Bridgeport: Bridgeport is home to the University of Bridgeport, providing various educational and employment opportunities.
- Outdoor Recreation: Residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Seaside Park, which includes a beach, a boardwalk, and a zoo.
- Median Home Price: The median home price in Bridgeport is around $200,000, reflecting a more affordable housing market compared to national averages.
- Average Monthly Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, the average monthly rent in Bridgeport is around $1,200, aligning with the lower cost of living.
